Getting ready for interviews
Interviews are nerve-wracking for 99% of people. Both in my coaching practice and in my volunteering with Smart Works, I help others build their confidence and prepare before interviews.
Identify your strengths
Before even getting to the interview stage, identify your strengths and bring them to the top of your CV. I love StrengthsProfile for this and they have a free starter profile. Then think of examples to illustrate your strengths, both in the workplace and outside, that you can use in your interviews.
Take notes
Have an interview notebook, in which you write your achievements, examples of competencies and strengths, questions you want to ask, info about the organisations and roles you have applied to, notes and reflections from past interviews, etc. When you’re waiting for your interview, reading over what you’re good at will boost your confidence!
Be yourself
By that I mean don’t mask your personality. Be aware of, accept and showcase your personality traits and strengths. If you disguise your true self, you may be hired into a role and team only to realise you’re feeling out of place. It’s best to miss out on a job rather than be unhappy because you can't be yourself.
Practice
Accept ‘low-stake’ interviews for jobs that are not at the top of your list. I got this tip from someone else and love it! Yes, it might feel like wasting your time, but it’s a good way to practice and improve your interview skills and confidence! It’s also a great way to get feedback. And if you do get the job, decline it and you know you’ll make someone happy in the short list!
Get immediate feedback
Here’s a question you can ask at the end of the interview: “Do you have any concerns about my application?” It’s unusual, but it’s a great way to get feedback on the spot. It also allows you to address what they say is missing and bring more evidence.