After months of searching and applying, the big day is here: You have an interview for a job that sounds perfect!
But that also means going in front of strangers who are there to judge you and decide whether you deserve this opportunity or if it should go to someone else. That can cause some serious nerves.
Don’t sweat it! Here are a few tips on how to boost your confidence before going into the interview that can help you prove you’re the right one for the job.
Spend a little time preparing for the meeting.
Start with something simple: Figure out how long it will take to get from your home to the place where you’ll be interviewed. If you’ve got time the day before, take a drive over to see how long it takes and whether there might be any traffic issues, like ongoing construction, etc. See where you’ll be able to park and how far from the building it is — a key thing to consider at any time of year so you’ll know how long you might be exposed to the heat, wind, rain, etc. If you don’t have the time to drive over, consult a GPS or mapping website to work through your trip. Then set alarms to give yourself plenty of time, maybe even a few extra minutes as a buffer, to arrive with a few minutes to spare. Not too early, of course, but not so close that you’re on the cusp of being late.
Practice some calming breathing.
When we get nervous, our bodies go into fight-or-flight mode. That’s not the approach you want to take during an interview. Instead, before you go inside, close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. Try to center yourself: repeat a phrase to yourself that can help calm your nerves, steady your breathing and focus your mind. It can be something as simple as “You can do this!” or “You deserve this job,” anything that helps you bring your heart rate down to normal. Or just focus on the breath coming into your lungs. Take a deep breath, hold it for a few seconds, and slowly exhale. Try breathing in through your nose and out through your mouth.
Practice your answers.
There are some questions you know will be asked during this interview because they’re asked at all interviews: Why do you want this job? What accomplishments are you proud of? How did you handle difficult people or tasks? Spend a little time thinking about the answers to these questions — have someone ask them to you and then work through different answers until you feel confident in your response.
Stand confidently.
This can be viewed as a “fake it ‘til you make it” approach, but it can work wonders! Before going into the interview, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, shoulders back, back straight, hands outstretched or on your hips. It’s a power pose that can fill you with just enough of a confidence boost that you walk in making a strong, powerful impression.
Talk yourself up.
You’ve worked hard for this. This interview is the culmination of all the applications you’ve sent, all the resumes you’ve written. It’s also the opportunity to make the most of the work you’ve put in over the course of your working life, all the education and training you’ve had. You were brought in for this interview because you’ve got the right stuff to join this team and be part of this organization. Call to mind some compliments you’ve received from friends and coworkers over the years and use them to pep yourself up. You’re good enough, smart enough and they like you!
Looking for your next great job? Check out Sterling Personnel’s job openings!
Going in to an interview feeling intimidated, unprepared or disheveled won’t do you any favors. Instead, take the time to be as prepared as possible, looking good, feeling good and knowing you can do this. Show yourself you deserve the hype.
When you’re ready to look for a new job, or if you want more advice on how to feel confident before your interview, contact Sterling Personnel. We have a constantly updated job board filled with great opportunities and we have recruiters standing by to help you find a good fit for your next one. Call Sterling Personnel today and let us help!
