As an HR professional conducting over 30 weekly interviews, I frequently encounter qualified candidates who struggle with self-confidence. Many candidates experience significant interview anxiety, including fears of underperforming, being caught off guard by questions, and concerns about not securing the job. Even when they have the qualifications, struggling with self-confidence impacts their interview performance.
To persuade an interviewer during an interview, you must be confident in your abilities. But how can you cultivate this self-confidence?
Here are 6 tips to turn interview anxiety into confidence:
1. Know Your Skillset
The fear of feeling like you are not good enough is real. Your skills will be one of the greatest assets against this fear. Take time to review the job description carefully (so many candidates do not do this) and highlight the top qualities they are seeking.
If there are employment gaps on your resume, be prepared to frame them as opportunities for growth and learning. Confidence stems from self-awareness—understanding your strengths and weaknesses. When you acknowledge and embrace them, you will feel much more comfortable discussing them.
2. Be Clear About What You Say
Being in the interview hot seat, the nerves and anxiety may set in. One sure way to ditch the nerves and anxiety is to master your career outline. Before the interview, be sure to prepare your pitch that includes your career history, skills, and motivators for wanting the job. Write it down and rehearse it aloud. Having friends or family listen can also help identify additional positive traits about yourself. Practicing this is key and this confidence will impress the interviewer.
3. Stay Upbeat
Start engaging positively as early as the moment you enter the building. Remember that you are not only trying to impress the interviewer but everyone you encounter. Ensure you always maintain eye contact and have a calm and friendly demeanor. Avoid any negative self-talk and focus on your strengths throughout the interview.
4. Act Confident Until You Truly Feel It
I have earned my place here.
I know what I am talking about.
I am authentic, capable, valuable and worthy.
I’ve got this.
These are the positive affirmations I have always used to boost my confidence when I am feeling down with imposter syndrome. Science supports the effectiveness of positive affirmations. They help calm your mind, train your brain to focus on the positive, overcome fear, and seize advantageous opportunities.
5. Reclaim Your Power
Interviews are like dating—an opportunity for both the employer and the candidate to get to know each other. It is important to not take over the conversation, letting the interviewer finish their sentences, but remember it is a two-way street. Find a good synergy between yourself and the employer and make sure you have at least a few questions to ask. Shift the perspective and remember that the interview is also your opportunity to evaluate the company and see if it aligns with your goals.
6. Pay attention to your body language
If you are still not feeling as confident as you had hoped you would, your body language can make a significant difference.
During the interview:
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Maintain eye contact and a friendly smile.
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Try to avoid looking all over the room and stay focused on the interviewer.
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Keep your arms visible on the table or on the arms of your chair, and your legs should be crossed or straight on the floor.
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Do not swivel in your chair and make sure your seat is point toward the interviewer.
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It is completely fine to use hand gestures to help emphasize your talking points.
By applying these tips to your next interview, you will be better prepared to approach interviews with confidence and grace, while also reducing your stress.
