If the thought of interviews gives you a sinking feeling in your stomach, you’re not alone!
For many, it can be a very daunting and uncomfortable process, sitting in front of the interviewer being fired questions about your work experience and why you are better suited than anyone else for the role. But don’t let the nerves get the better of you! Try these strategies to help you be prepared and build that confidence so you can ace that interview!
Before the Interview
Being organised for the interview is an absolute must. The night before, plan where you are going and how you are getting there (leaving some leeway in case the unthinkable happens and your car or bus breaks down). The last thing you want is to be in a situation where you are flustered, running all over town, not knowing where you are going – that is not going to help you with your confidence! Also once you arrive, take a few minutes to breathe and mentally prepare yourself before walking in.
Be Prepared
This should go without saying, but to feel confident about something you need to know the ins and outs. First things first, do your research about the company. Go onto the company’s website, LinkedIn page, Google or anywhere that has information about the company you are interviewing for. I would also advise you to look up any news articles that reference the company as it shows you’ve done your research.
Secondly, know your resume back to front. The more detail the better I say (within reason), especially if your experience relates to the role you are interviewing for. The hiring manager is trying to gauge your suitability for the role and if you go into the interview and explain your experience well, you’re in with a good chance!
Lastly, practice interview questions until you are blue in the face. In my experience, whenever I’ve gone for an interview, I practiced as many interview questions as possible. This is just a matter of typing into google “interview questions” or “competency questions” and practicing answering these questions. If you have a willing friend or family member, I would even recommend practicing interview questions with them.
Body Language
Body language speaks volumes in interviews and poor body language can send the wrong signal. Being able to greet the interviewer with a firm handshake and direct eye contact (without looking crazy) shows you’re confident with meeting new people. Some other tips with body language are back in your chair with shoulders back, using hand gestures whilst speaking, not sitting with your legs crossed and nodding your head while you are listening which shows attentiveness.
Dress the Part
When you look good – you feel good! Dress appropriately for the interview. For corporate roles, my advice would be the more corporate the better. Or if you’re unsure about the dress code ask the recruiter or hiring manager. The last thing you want is to show up to an interview not looking the part, as that will bring your confidence down.
Don’t go Overboard
While having confidence in an interview is important, it’s a fine line between being confident and being overconfident. While the hiring manager is determining your suitability for the role – they are also assessing what it would be like to work with you and seeing how you would fit into the team. You want to come across as likable. If you are someone who walks into an interview with arrogance and too much ego, it probably won’t land you the role!
Having confidence in an interview reassures the hiring manager that you are someone who would be able to go into the role and hit the ground running. Of course, it’s okay to be somewhat nervous going into an interview however you don’t want to be in the position where you are unable to answer questions because you haven’t done your research or preparation!
