Are you wondering how to be confident in an interview? Everyone gets nervous when going to an interview, it only shows you care about the job you’re going for. However, sometimes being a nervous wreck can hamper your success when it comes to interviews. That’s why we’ve put together some expert tips so you can boost your confidence in an interview.
You’ve got a job interview. Well done! This means the interviewer thinks you’re a perfect match for the job role on paper and it’s your time to prove it in an interview.
Be Prepared
Preparation is crucial for you to land that amazing job. Write out a checklist so you know exactly what you need to do before your interview. Do a test run of getting to the interview destination so you know how long it will take you to get there and where you’re going. This will resolve any last minute stress due to traffic or not being able to find the place leading to the risk of you being late. Always remember to arrive at least 10 minutes early.
Test Yourself
To prepare you should also get a family member or friend to test you on some interview questions that might pop up. This way when the interviewer asks you, you’ll be able to master the answer to the question.
Research
Make sure you do your research on the company. It’s highly likely that you’ll be asked in your interview what you already know about the company and it’s not a good start not being able to answer the question, it portrays a lack of interest.
Ask your own Questions
An interview isn’t just a one-way conversation. Your potential employer wants to learn more about you and we’re sure you want to learn more about them. So when the opportunity for you to ask questions arises you need to grab this with both hands. It’s your time to show you have a strong interest in the company!
Here a few questions you could ask in an interview:
Can you tell me more about the daily responsibilities of this job?
What do you think are the most important qualities for someone to excel in this role?
When should I hear back from you?
If it’s an Apprenticeship or Graduate Programme that you’re applying for you can also ask whether there will be room for you to progress with the company after the programme ends.
Always remember to bring extra copies of your CV, pack your bag/briefcase the night before that way you won’t forget anything and make sure you dress to impress. It’s best to prepare your interview outfit ahead of the day. First impressions are everything, so make sure you don’t have ripped tights or tea stains all down your tie. Read more on what to wear to a job interview.
Top Tip: Don’t skip breakfast on the day of your interview, no matter how many flips and turns your tummy is doing.
In the Interview
You’ve nailed the preparation but you’re sat in the waiting room with sweaty palms, shaky hands and a mind block. What should you do? Take deep breaths, it might feel stupid but if it’s going to help you secure your dream job its worth it, right? Breathing helps you to redirect any negative energy and to focus on the positives. Tell yourself this company needs you and you’re going to secure your dream job. This will help boost your confidence and you’ll believe in yourself more.
Eye Contact/Body Language
Greet the interviewer with a handshake and make sure you make eye contact. Eye contact and body language are crucial, it shows you’re interested in the interview and what your potential employer has to say.
Think Positively
If you think positively then you’ll act positively reassure yourself that this company has invited you for an interview because they see potential in YOU! Your CV has shown that you’re a strong candidate and now it’s time for you to back that up.
Now you’ve politely said goodbye to the interviewer, you know exactly when you should get a callback, it’s time to relax and you can’t change anything now so it’s pointless putting yourself down. Remember, if you don’t get the job, don’t be disheartened! Ask for feedback, although it might be hard to hear criticism but remember its constructive criticism and when it comes down to an interview it’s the best method of improvement. This is your chance to take the advice on board and nail your next interview.
