Looking for a new job is a big step for anyone, as it means you need to step outside your comfort zone and into the unknown. Applying for jobs and putting yourself out there is a brave thing to do, as you don’t know the person at the end of the application you have just applied for or the person on the other end of the phone you are calling to enquire about roles.
We recently wrote an article ‘Is a lack of confidence preventing you from applying for jobs?’, which explores ways to help you to increase your confidence, so it doesn’t get in the way of you applying for a role that you are more than likely capable of doing.
In this article we take a look at the next step in the job search process, the interview. Interview anxiety is a common experience for many people, it’s natural to feel nervous about something you care about. Wanting to make a good impression and the fear of the unknown, in terms of what questions you’re going to be asked, can make you feel uncomfortable. However, although it’s normal to have interview nerves, there are certain things you can do to that can reduce your nerves to help present your best self during the interview.
Below we have shared some tips on how you can reduce your nerves and help build your confidence so you can give the best interview possible and show your best side!
Remind yourself that you’ve secured an interview
An easy thing to do is to just remind yourself that you have secured an interview. You’ve applied for the job and the person who is managing the recruitment for the role liked your CV and wants to get to know you better. You don’t get asked in for interview if your CV doesn’t meet the roles needs… it’s a waste of time for everyone involved… so give yourself a pat on the back and give yourself some credit for securing the interview.
Prepare
One of the best ways to make yourself feel more confident about an upcoming interview is to prepare for it. Being prepared for an interview will not only help you to feel more relaxed, it will also demonstrate your desire to secure the role and join the business.
We wrote an article ‘How to research a company before your interview’, which shares all of the areas you can get key information about the company and role you are interviewing for. Be as prepared as you can be and show the interviewer you want the job!
Take notes
Having the notes you created when you were preparing for the interview is a great way to help you stay focussed. It will also help you to cover everything you wanted to cover during the interview. There really is nothing worse than leaving an interview feeling like you didn’t cover everything you wanted to.
Having notes in front of you during the interview is not cheating… they are there to help guide you through and help to make the best impression possible. Plus, we think that it shows that you have properly prepared and are taking this opportunity seriously. Remember, it's not a test, it's a conversation.
Humanise the situation
Remember, an interview is as much about you finding out about the role and company as it is the interviewer finding out about you, your skills and your experience. Think of it as a conversation rather than an interview. They will have questions and you will have questions and remember, they have asked you in because your CV caught their eye… they wanted to meet you! In the most simplest terms, it’s just two people having a chat.
Remind yourself of your achievements and successes
One of the best ways to combat a lack of confidence is to write down all of the great things you have achieved in your career to date. From projects worked on to promotions earned and everything in between.
It’s very easy to become completely consumed by a lack of confidence, resulting in you quickly forgetting your achievements. Give yourself an ego stroke by writing them all down and see if that helps to make you realise that you are good at what you do!
Just be you
Lastly, just be yourself. If they like your personality then great, it’s a fit! If your personality doesn’t match the business then fine, nobody is right for every company. Wouldn’t you rather join a business that values you, as well as your skills and experience?
Looking for a new job?
We have a huge number of great opportunities with great employers across the construction, civils, rail, power and telecoms sectors. Search our current construction jobs, civils jobs, rail jobs, power jobs and telecoms jobs.
Get in touch with our recruitment specialists
If you are keen to discuss your current situation and want to find out how we can help you make your next career step then get in touch with our team of recruitment experts. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you and your career progress.
