Whether you're going for an in-person or remote interview, the right mindset will help you immensely. If you maintain a positive mindset throughout your preparation, you'll have a positive mindset for the job interview.
This will help you feel more self-confident throughout the interview process, ensuring the interview will be much more positive for you and the interviewer, inevitably increasing your chances of landing the job.
So how do you feel more confident and ensure you effectively sell your skills and experience? Here are our 8 top interview tips on how to feel confident and maintain a positive mindset from job search to in-person or video interview.
1 . Reframe the way you think
The way you think and the thoughts you have about yourself could be negatively impacting your frame of mind during your preparation for your job interview. If you have negative thoughts about your abilities or worth, try reframing the situation. Remind yourself that the goal of the interview is to demonstrate your skills and strengths and that you have prepared for it as best as possible.
Rather than allowing your thoughts to focus on what you think you can't do, focus on what you can do and use past successes to reaffirm your abilities. Eliminate self-doubt by reminding yourself that you are capable and confident and why you went for the job in the first place. Remember that a job interview is a chance to show off your skills and experience – it’s not a test of your worth or value as a person. So stay confident in who you are, believe in yourself and go into the interview with an open mind.
2. Prepare for your interview - interview questions and the right mindset
Most of us understand it's essential to prepare for an interview. To show you understand the company you're hoping to work with, prepare answers for common interview questions, such as "where do your strengths and weaknesses lie?". However, preparation isn't just good for improving your chances. It’s a great tool for adopting a positive frame of mind. If you feel prepared, you'll feel more confident and relaxed, knowing you've done all you can.
Preparation is more than just learning about the company and thinking about your answers. Before the interview, take some time to relax, so you don’t become overwhelmed. This could include deep breathing exercises, reading an inspiring book or article, listening to music or walking. When an interview is looming, preparing your mind and body will help you to feel ready and able to enjoy your interview.
3. See the interview as a learning opportunity
An interview should be seen as a learning opportunity, as it provides the chance to gain valuable insight into the company and position. It offers an opportunity to ask questions and understand what’s expected in the role. Additionally, by listening carefully to the responses given by the interviewer, you can learn more about how the organisation operates and whether they are a good fit for you.
Interviews are also an excellent way to practise your communication skills and build confidence. You may emerge from the interview knowing you've tried your best, but the job isn't for you, or there is another candidate better suited to the job. By enhancing and sustaining your positive mindset, you'll be able to go into the next interview with a positive frame of mind with what you've learned.
4. Don't be afraid to shout about why you're the best fit for the job
One of the most frustrating things we can do is to be too modest during an interview. This is your time to shine! If you've been invited to an interview, you've already demonstrated you have the skills and experience. Now you need to show them you're a person who is confident they could go a long way if you were to be offered the job.
An interview isn't the time for being modest and shying away from your achievements. You'll kick yourself if you don't get the job because you were too humble to big yourself up. As part of your interview prep, remember what you've already achieved so you can go into the interview with a clearer sense of why you deserve the job.
5. Don't let imposter syndrome take control
Being modest is one thing, but doubting yourself and your capabilities can be even more damaging for an upcoming job interview. Imposter syndrome may come in the form of believing you're 'faking it', that what you've achieved so far was by fluke or because you somehow fooled others into thinking you're better at your job than you are.
You need to turn this limiting mindset on its head. Of course, you still want to portray your authentic self, but positive self-affirmations can help demonstrate why you are the right person for this job.
6. Put thought into your interview outfit
Whether you're going for a remote job or an in-person interview, it's important to dress for the occasion. Dressing for work has changed over the years, with remote working and a more casual approach in offices. However, it's still considered best practice to dress smartly for a job interview.
It will give the best impression and give you confidence and help with your mindset ahead of the interview. Even if your interview is over Zoom, wearing your best shoes will help put you in the right mindset before a remote job interview.
7. Be authentically you
It's important to be your authentic self from start to finish. As we mentioned above, you've got this far, proving you've got the experience that matches the job description. Now to show them the person behind the application. Have confidence in yourself and your achievements, and let this shine through.
Interviews are a great opportunity to give both sides a chance to see what it may feel like to work together, so don't pretend to be something you're not. Even if you don't get the job this time, it can make you feel good to know the real you has given it all you could, and if they make you a job offer, you know you don't have to start a new role as someone you're not!
8. Get support with your interview preparation and skills
A positive mindset can make a difference, and thorough preparation isn't only good for building your confidence, it goes a long way to enhance your interview skills. However, you don't have to do this alone. Job recruitment agencies aren't just there to help you find and apply for jobs, they can help you when you have the interview lined up.
Get support from your recruiter, friend, or family member to help you prepare. They can help you take a step back and get into the right frame of mind. They can talk through questions and techniques to help you approach your interview in the best way possible. Use the resources you have and the power of a positive mindset.
Want help with your interview and to increase your chances of getting the job? We're here to help.
Here at Venture Recruitment Partners, we can help you with your dream of finding a new job. Our experienced team is on hand to help. Please register with us today. Register with us · Venture Recruitment Partners (vrpartners.co.uk)
