Why Confidence Matters Most

Job searching can be arduous — for some, downright exhausting. No one is going to tell you otherwise. The process can be overwhelming from start to finish, whether you’re a fresh graduate or a seasoned executive. 2020 brought on a lot of new challenges for job seekers — but there’s a light at the end of the tunnel. The jobs are out there — but so are all of the other people vying for the same position as you. Jumping into your field of choice might feel discouraging if you’re surrounded by candidates with more experience or [better] qualifications. The key to standing out amongst the crowd? Confidence. This is such an important topic to dig into because, let’s be honest, we’ve all felt nervous walking into a job interview. Each of us have, at one time or another, felt inadequate when submitting a resume. Feeling like you don’t deserve something as much as the next guy is a natural, human reaction to competition and the ruthless world of job seeking — but it could be hindering your ability to land the job you want, or any job at all.

What is confidence in a job search? It is recognizing and understanding your experience and abilities, the value they bring to a workplace, and it is critically important to your job search. Here’s why:

Employers are always seeking candidates that fit their needs — meaning all of those beautifully worded bullet points on your resume are still valuable — but they also want to make a smart hire. Established companies want to bring people on board who they can trust to do their jobs, and do them well. Your resume and cover letter could be exceptional, but if you’re asked why you deserve the job — are you prepared to answer?

This is why confidence is important. 

Let’s dive into the 5 reasons why being confident is so important during your job search:

• Having self-confidence allows you to effectively communicate.

Knowing who you are, what you’re good at, and why you would be a valuable hire will make it easier to explain why you deserve the job.

• It commands respect.

An employer will see your confidence as a strength and a sign of maturity, self-awareness and real-world experience. When you exude strength, you command respect as a professional.

• Confidence invokes trust.

The real world workforce isn’t for the faint of heart, and it definitely isn’t for those looking to have their hands held. If you trust in yourself and your abilities — they will too. Potential employers will be more inclined to hire someone who will demand less of them, and will instead take charge confidently. 

• In such a deeply saturated job market — qualifications and experience just aren’t enough anymore.

The harsh reality is — a lot of people are equally as qualified as you for the jobs you want. Setting yourself apart is important — and one of the ways you can do that is by being more than what they’re looking for. Confidence breeds drive, motivation, positivity, and happiness. On the flip side — for fresh grads taking their first steps towards new careers, this shift in hiring patterns works in their favor. Qualifications are important, and so is experience — but they don’t hold as much weight as they used to in this growing competitive market. Wherever you land on the job seeker spectrum — find your confidence.

• When you believe you’re the best person for the job, it is likely your potential employer will too.

This is my favorite food for thought. Manifest that job in your mind. By the time you get to the interview portion of your job search — you should fully believe in yourself, what makes you great, and why they’d be making a mistake not hiring you. Not every job is right for every person, but there is a right person for every job — let them know it’s you. 

If you’re struggling with any of the above points in your own path towards employment — it is important to remember that confidence can be learned. What’s on paper is just as important as the way you feel about yourself. Confidence comes from within.

A few pro tips for boosting your self-confidence and leaving a lasting impression:

• Research your potential employer beyond the job listing. Visit their website. Check out their blog. Gain an understanding of their mission statement and professional goals.
• Become familiar with the job you want, and connect to it. Knowing what you’re talking about during your interview will not only impress an employer but will make your interest in the position evident. Put in the work. It’s worth it. You will feel better about yourself and your answers.
• Decide why you’re right for the position and SELL IT. Take stock of your best qualities and abilities. When you don’t know your own value — how can you expect an employer to see it?
• Practice your answers to all of those dreaded interview questions. You’ll no longer dread them. Of course, you can’t prepare for everything — but you can have an idea of how you’ll respond to “Why do you want this job?”, and “Why are you a good fit for the company?”, etc.

The hiring process can be just as overwhelming for potential employers as it is for job seekers. Companies want to be certain that they are making the right choice with new hires. Your confidence will speak volumes as to your abilities and potential — and make them more likely to feel good about bringing you on board.