How to walk into any interview with confidence
When searching for a new job, it’s common to dread the interview process. While nerves are natural, you can avoid these feelings by taking the proper amount of time to prepare.
Here are five tips to help you walk into your next interview feeling confident.
Study your resume
One of the most important steps in the pre-interview process is to review your resume beforehand. Knowing how to translate your resume into conversation can help differentiate you from other candidates. It’s also important to tailor your resume for each interview. Tailoring your resume is beneficial because it catches the interviewer’s attention, helps you pass applicant tracking systems, and positions you as the ideal candidate.
Practice aloud
When preparing for an interview, it’s helpful to practice your answers and presentation out loud. Before an interview, have a friend or family member ask you commonly used interview questions. If you’re alone, you can even practice talking to yourself in a mirror. This method makes you aware of how you look during an interview, and it also helps you prepare your answers. Practicing out loud can help familiarize yourself with the actual interview environment.
Prepare situational responses
It’s common for situational questions, or the STAR method, to be used in the interview process. The STAR method stands for Situation-Task-Action-Result, and it’s a way to answer behavioral interview questions by storytelling. It proves that you’ve handled similar challenges in past positions and are a strong candidate for the job. Researching commonly asked STAR method questions and preparing answers will help you feel ready for when one of these questions comes up during an interview.
Research the company
Looking into the company you have an interview with is important for several reasons. Doing the right research helps you:
- Show that you’re interested in the position
- Prepare informed questions
- See if your values align with the organization’s
You want to know and understand as much about a company as possible before going into an interview with them. Being able to speak about the company shows the interviewer that you’re prepared and interested in working for them. It’s also important to research the company to make sure that you want to work for them, and that their values match yours.
Dress your best
The way you’re dressed for an interview is important. This is one of the first impressions that you’ll make on the interviewer, so it’s in your best interest to ensure that it’s a positive one.
You’ll want to dress appropriately because it demonstrates professionalism, respect for the interview process, and for the company and its culture. The right outfit can boost your self-confidence because when you look good, you feel good.
By following these tips, you can approach your next interview feeling positive and confident. By doing proper research and preparation, you’ll be on your way to nailing each interview. Looking to land your next interview? Addison Group can help. Our recruiters have been matching top talent with established companies for more than 20 years. Let’s talk about how our team can help you build confidence and find the opportunity that is right for you.