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Self-confidence and the Interview.

  • Publish Date: Posted about 8 years ago

You’ve perfected your CV, nailed that application process and got that all important call for the interview.  Well done!  You are most certainly on your way to a new job! 
Hang on, what’s that I hear, is it the sound of panic setting in?  What questions will they ask? What if I don’t like the company? What should I wear?
Breathe…collect your thoughts and think about this.  You've got this far, all you need to do now is ignite that self-confidence and ensure what's on paper transpires to that interview room.  Yes, I hear you - easier said than done, so here are 4 tips that Handle have put together to help get you started. 

Body Language

Amy Cuddy's Ted Talk - Your Body Language Shapes Who You Are recommends “power posing” – standing in a posture of confidence, even when you don’t feel confident, this affects your brain’s testosterone and cortisol levels, thus making you feel more confident.  Concluding that changing your body position influence how others see you and even alters your body chemistry.  Watch the talk and get power posing before that big interview.  (Do take note, though, “power posing" isn’t to be done in the interview)

Do your research & be prepared

There's nothing worse than feeling nervous and being unprepared.  Make sure you thoroughly research the company and its culture.  Know what you're letting yourself in for and don't be afraid to ask questions.  Always remember that this is also your opportunity to find out if the job is right for you.  Here at Handle we pride ourselves on the relationships we build with our clients and candidates so are always only a phone call or email away should you need any advice or tips.

Positive thinking 

Think of all that you have to offer and focus on that, don't draw on the negatives.  Evaluate your transferable skills.  What are you already doing that can be applied to the role you’re interviewing for?  Try and give real examples of projects that you have done and how you can apply the same strategy and structure to a future project.

Write stuff down

What do you feel are your low confidence triggers when interviewing? (E.g. the handshake, answering questions).  Write these down and turn them into positives.  Change the way you see the scary stuff. Perhaps ask a friend to do a practice run of an interview with you.  Once you get some stock answers in the bag, you can apply them to any interview and you will build up your self-confidence for when you're in that interview.  Our team of consultants here at Handle are always happy to go over any interview questions you may feel you will struggle with. 

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