Say Goodbye to Interview Nerves, and Hello Confidence!
Whether this is your first or fifth interview in your career search, you understand the whirlwind of nerves and excitement that go into the preparation. Each company that you interview with will have their differences, but ultimately the process will be relatively the same. After you have a few interviews under your belt, you might start to lose the energy and passion that make you so well-liked by your interviewer. Let’s dive into a few tips on how to get that energy rolling and ace your interview!
Pump Yourself Up!
Before your interview, you can always remind yourself why you want this job, but have you considering asking yourself -why do they want you for this job? This perspective can help instill confidence before you walk through the door, and it applies every time! It’s simple. There is a need for a position to be filled, you have been deemed as qualified to fulfill that need. So, get in there and show them what you’ve got! It always helps to let your family or friends know when your interview is, usually that results in a “You’ve got this!” text right before you walk in. And don’t forget to tell yourself that yes, you can do this, you do have what it takes, you are qualified.
Be Involved
There’s a good chance that you are not the first applicant that your interviewer has met with, whether it be for your applied position or any position prior to. Often times an interview consists of a list of the same questions that the interviewer has heard answers to by several different candidates. That being said, it will work in your favor if you consider ways to be 100% engaged in the conversation versus speaking only when a question is asked of you. We suggest bringing a list of your own questions to refer to when the conversation needs a change of direction. This way, the interviewer sees your interest in being involved and your confidence to speak up. Plus- once you break the ice, your nerves will settle and your words will come to you without hesitation.
Feel Your Best
We can’t speak specifically to your talent or skills, but we can speak to your self confidence! There are a few intentional ways to ensure you are feeling your best on your interview day. You’ve heard them before, probably 100 times, but we have some specific direction for you. Get in bed at 8 o’clock. That’s right, 8 o’clock! The sun might not have set all the way yet, but you’ve got a big day tomorrow. This doesn’t mean you’ll be asleep at 8:05, but you are at least resting your body and mind early. Next basic reminder, EAT! There’s nothing worse than worrying about your stomach growling between answers, drinking plenty of water will help avoid that. Dress in your very best outfit. Whether it’s the first or tenth time you’ve worn it- they won’t know the difference, the important thing is that you feel the confidence when you put it on. Lastly, no time for exercise, so the next best thing is turning on your favorite playlist and jamming out on the way!
There are plenty of foundational recommendations we can make on how to succeed in your interview, but it is important to first focus on getting your mind right and keeping your energy high. It is nerve-wracking to think you only have one chance to make a first impression, but hopefully these tips will point you in the direction of feeling motivated and up for the challenge!
