If you are like many people, you experience some degree of anxiety when faced with a job interview. However, if you have gone through the various steps of completing your chiropractic education, have worked in “real world” clinical internships, and have passed national and state boards, you have nothing to fear. Remember the many hurdles you have cleared up to this point, and have confidence. In almost every measurable way, you have already proven yourself.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, you should be prepared to describe your academic and job experience clearly and succinctly. You might want to practice this with a friend or relative prior to the interview, so you will have a rough idea of what you want to say. Ideally, however, you should not memorize a “canned speech,” but should instead react naturally and conversationally to the interview questions.

You should also be prepared for more all-encompassing, slightly confrontational questions, such as “Why should I hire you?” Such questions are often intimidating, since they put the burden on you, the job candidate, to justify yourself. In such cases, don’t be frazzled: Simply focus on your relevant skills and background, and express your enthusiasm for the job. It is also helpful to have background information on the particular chiropractic office, and incorporate this knowledge into your statement of interest. Prospective employers are usually impressed to discover that you are familiar with their business and its operations.

In addition, you should be sure to present yourself in a professional manner. This means arriving early for the interview, dressing professionally, and displaying scrupulous personal hygiene. You should avoid chewing gum and using poor grammar. Talking too much can be a detriment, and you should take care to avoid nervous, irrelevant chatter.

Nonverbal communication often speaks as loudly as words in interviews, and you should use these nonverbal cues to communicate interest. Sit up straight, make eye contact, and smile when appropriate.

Although it’s a good idea to ask questions about a chiropractic practice or other potential employer, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests avoiding questions about money or salary until you are offered a job. You should also steer clear of the obvious or “frequently asked questions” that can be easily clarified on the company’s website.

Overall, you should present yourself as confident in your abilities and interested in the position. This combination, along with your already significant credentials as a Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine, will put you in good stead for any job opportunity.