Oh, yeah!
You got the call. The date’s on the calendar. The hiring managers at your dream company are interested in you and want you to come in for an interview. (Of course, they do!)
But now, understandably, you’re feeling a little nervous.
So, in addition to the practice questions and company research you’ll be doing, make time for these seven get-you-pumped-up tips. They’ll help you feel confident, powerful, and mentally prepared, so that you can bring the calmest, happiest, and most charming version of yourself to the table.
Write down your career highlights reel
Do a quick inventory of your career highlights: all the awesome stuff you’ve done, problems you’ve solved, ways you’ve made people’s lives better. Don’t necessarily regurgitate your resume—think about the accomplishments you’re really proud of. Then, write down these highlights in your journal or notebook. Read them back to yourself anytime you’re feeling nervous (and definitely the morning of the interview). It’ll really make your attributes sink in and give your confidence a boost.
Listen to the songs that inspire or make you feel relax
Music is a powerful tool we can use to influence our emotions. Even listening to a few minutes of pump-up music can be enough to change your whole day. Utilize this by blasting some beats you can jam to, right before your interview. This will help you let loose and boost dopamine levels.
Use Optimistic Language
The job search process is tough, and it’s easy to let thoughts of doubt creep into your mind. When they do, here’s a terrific phrase to repeat to yourself in the days leading up to your interview: “I hope this is the job opportunity of a lifetime. But if it’s not this, then that just means something better is going to come along.”
Similarly, make sure to give yourself some pre-interview love. Write down five positive things about yourself (e.g., “I am articulate, smart, interesting, talented, and a great communicator”). Read your list out loud the hour before the interview, and you’ll remember that you’re already a winner.
Practice
As you’re getting ready for the interview, do a practice run of your introduction in front of the mirror. Reach out your hand and say your name. Smile like the job is already yours! Then, practice saying the salary that you want out loud. Add 5% to that number and say that out loud, just for fun. This is excellent practice to recognize what a valuable asset you will be to the job, so that you can interview with confidence.
Get a Last-Minute Pep Talk
The morning of the interview, have a friend call you for a quick pep talk. (Hey, if it works for professional athletes, it can work for you!) Ask your friend to remind you that you’re experienced, qualified, a total winner, or whatever else you need to hear. Or, if you can’t get a hold of a friend in time, pump yourself up with this quick video of 40 Inspirational Speeches in Two Minutes.
Remember it’s an Interview, Not an Interrogation
Remind yourself that the people who will be interviewing you are human beings, just like you. They’re not hiring gods. They’re not better than you. They’re just people. And this interview isn’t an interrogation. It’s just a few people having an energizing conversation. If it’s helpful, pretend that they’ve already hired you, and now, they’re just interviewing you to collect some additional details for the company memo that will introduce you to your new teammates. Just relax and put your best self forward. No sweat!
Finally, remember that no matter what happens, landing a job interview is a big step in the right direction. And that—whether it’s with this particular company or somewhere else—the best (of your career) is yet to come!
Source: The Muse