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How do I overcome my nerves about having an interview after many years?
I worked in project management for many years until going freelance as a consultant. For the last 16 years I’ve been freelance, but I needed greater stability so I’ve decided to start applying for jobs. The problem is I haven’t had an interview for many years and I feel completely unsure of what to expect and very nervous. I’ve read tips on preparing for interviews which sound very straightforward, but I’m just worried I’m going to be very nervous, particularly if a question comes up that I’m not anticipating, and that it will show. What is the best way I can prepare, reduce my nerves and have the best chance of succeeding?
Preparing for interviews after a long period of freelancing can be nerve-wracking, but with the right approach, you can feel confident and increase your chances of success. Here are some steps you can take to prepare effectively to reduce nerves and have the best chance of succeeding:
Research the company: Take the time to thoroughly research the company you’re applying to. Understand their mission, values, products/services, recent news and any notable achievements. This will not only demonstrate your interest and enthusiasm, but also help you tailor your responses to align with their goals and culture.
Review common interview questions: While you can’t predict the questions that will be asked, you can prepare for common ones such as “Tell me about yourself,” “Why do you want to work here?” and “What are your strengths?” Practise your responses to these questions, focusing on highlighting relevant experiences and skills that showcase your suitability for the role.
Update your skills and knowledge: Given your background in project management and consulting, ensure your skills are up to date with the latest industry trends, tools and methodologies. Be ready to discuss how you’ve applied these skills in your previous projects and how they can benefit the potential employer.
Practise mock interviews: Ask a friend, family, or mentor to conduct a mock interview with you. Practising will help you become more comfortable articulating your thoughts and experiences under pressure. Ask for feedback on your responses, body language and overall demeanour.
Prepare questions to ask: Interviews are a two-way street, so prepare thoughtful questions to ask at the interview. This demonstrates your interest in the role and company while also providing you with valuable insights into whether the job is the right fit for you.
Visualise success and stay positive: Visualise yourself succeeding in the interview and landing the job. Positive visualisation can help reduce anxiety and boost your confidence. Remind yourself of your accomplishments and the value you bring.
Manage nervousness: It’s natural to feel nervous before an interview, but there are strategies you can employ to manage your nerves. Practise deep breathing exercises, visualise a calming scene and remind yourself of your qualifications and past successes. Think positively and visualise success.
Dress appropriately and arrive early: Choose professional attire that aligns with the company culture and dress code. Plan to arrive at the interview location early to allow for any unexpected delays and to familiarise yourself with the surroundings.
Follow up after the interview: Send a thank you email to the interviewer within 24 hours expressing your appreciation for the opportunity to interview and reiterating your interest in the role. This demonstrates professionalism and leaves a positive impression.
By following these steps and preparing for your interview, you can reduce nerves, demonstrate your skills and experience confidently, and increase your chances of success in securing the job you want. It’s important to remember that each interview is a learning experience, regardless of the outcome, so stay positive and continue refining your approach based on feedback received and observations.
Good luck!
*Liz Sebag-Montefiore is a career coach and Director of 10Eighty, a strengths-based HR consultancy. For more information, please visit www.10Eighty.co.uk.
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