Most people are very nervous about job interviews, and it's natural to feel that way. After all, you're in the hot seat, answering pointed questions about yourself and your history while trying to make yourself attractive to your potential employer. With some preparation and know-how about what common, major mistakes to avoid, you can set aside those interview fears and handle the meeting with confidence.

The first mistake is showing a noted lack of confidence in both yourself and your abilities. Whether you think you're showing it or not, your interviewer will be able to sense your lack of confidence like a vulture catching the scent of an impending death, and your interviewer will be unlikely to trust in the abilities of someone who doesn't appear to trust themselves.

You should be honest about your capacities but play up your talent in what you can do when speaking to your interviewer. Don't worry about rubbing your potential employer the wrong way by seeming arrogant. As long as you don't act like a prima donna, take the potential job seriously, and avoid demeaning your interviewer or their organization, you should come off as self-confidant, rather than a pompous ass.

Many people want temporary work or aren't sure if they'll be with the company for a long time. Whether you're looking for long-term employment or something shorter, always try to leave your interviewer with the impression that they won't have to go through the hiring process again anytime soon. At the same time, be honest about your intentions if the question comes up and have your explanations and reasons handy.

Employers look for staff that are reliable and those who tend to bounce from job to job aren't going to have good chances of being hired. Also, if your work history shows that you've changed jobs frequently, be prepared to answer why and make sure those reasons are solid.

Preparation for a job interview is another must that people often overlook. Don't even try thinking you can wing it without at least some level of planning. If your resume has less than flattering facts or history on it, you'll want to prepare for the interviewer to discover those facts and discussion about them.

A little research into the organization you're trying to work for (as well as researching the person interviewing you) can go a long way. Further, a pre-written list of questions about the position for your interviewer to answer will make you seem smart and savvy, both qualities interviewers want to see in an applicant.

As you can see, sweating out a job interview isn't the way to land yourself that dream job. Grab hold of your self-confidence and the knowledge you've got the skills your employer is looking for and land that job opportunity with pride the pride you have in your talents.

BlueWaterArticles.com: - How To Avoid Job Interview Mistakes

About the Author

John Edmond owns and writes regularly for Careerbuilder Jobs where you can find more information and advice on how to survive the job interview and succeeding in the job selection process.