Anxiety is one of the most common mental health conditions and can be immediately triggered in anyone facing an interview. A staggering 93% of people admitted to feeling anxious or nervous before any job interview, with many claiming it is more nerve inducing than a wedding. However, there are some quick and easy ways to give yourself a confidence boost before any session with a prospective employer.
Dress to Impress
Dressing to impress may sound cliche, but it does work. Choosing a professional outfit doesn’t necessarily mean you have to go out and buy a whole new wardrobe. Even a few stylish accessories can show how seriously you take your career prospects and subtly declare your professionalism. A Used Rolex doesn’t cost a fortune but looks impressive. Always dress with the employer in mind. If you are joining a trendy hipster startup, dress differently than you would for a long-standing family firm that proudly displays its heritage.
Do Your Research
Most companies will have a website so take time to look around and familiarise yourself with the language they use to talk about themselves and their team. Look at any sections where they might talk about their values or business aims. Also, look for flaws; they are looking to hire as they have a gap in their skillset. If you can spot several methods for improving their customer service, keep those ideas in your back pocket if a question like this is asked of you. Don’t offer critiques unless you are asked for them but be prepared to be honest in your appraisal. Any good business owner will be aware of their weaknesses or be willing to listen to ways to improve their company’s services or products.
Take Your Time
When you are asked a question, don’t just blurt out the first thought that comes to your head. A pause may feel like it is lasting forever, but try to control that feeling and remind yourself it is just nerves. An interviewer will be happy to wait if the answer you finally give is well thought through and considered. Rushing to answer may result in you repeating yourself or not knowing how to end a sentence, resulting in more nerves. If you feel the pause is unnatural, take a drink of water to fill the time and let your mind focus on the question and your answer.
Let Your Personality Shine
Finally, remember that if you have gotten to this stage, the employer has seen something in you and your application. They want a colleague who will become a key part of the team and not just a robot that can efficiently carry out a task. They want to get to know you, so don’t feel you need to hold yourself back. The opposite is true.
They want to see how you will fit in with their team, and so if you can, don’t be afraid to show how passionate and driven you are. It might be this little glimmer of personality that clinches you the job.
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