Interview with Confidence

Questions? No worries!

This essential resource guide will help YOU interview with confidence!

Job interviews can feel daunting, but remember: you were asked to be there, and you deserve to be there. With the right preparation and mindset, you can walk into any interview with confidence. This guide breaks down practical strategies, common questions, and ways to stand out – helping you turn nerves into success.

The 5 P’s of Interviewing

1. Prepare – Research the company, the role, and why you want to work there.

2. Present – First impressions matter; you’ve got just 7 seconds, so present yourself with confidence.

3. Power Pose – Spend 2 minutes in a strong stance to boost your confidence before the interview.

4. Proceed – Have a plan of action, whether applying online, cold calling, or walking in.

5. Practice – Rehearse your answers anywhere – in the car, shower, or even with your cat!

Common Interview Questions

Be ready for the questions that come up again and again. Examples include: - Tell me about yourself. - Why do you want this job? - What are your strengths and weaknesses? - How do you handle conflict? - Why should we hire you? Prepare concise, authentic answers that highlight your skills and personality.

ACE Your ‘Tell Me About Yourself’ Answer

Use the ACE formula: - About me – Share your background. - Current activities – Talk about what you’re doing now. - End with strengths – Highlight your skills, enthusiasm, or personality traits.

Closing the Deal

Always prepare questions to ask the interviewer. Great options include: - What would a typical day look like in this role? - How do you measure success here? - What are the opportunities for professional development? - What are the next steps in the hiring process? This not only shows your interest but also helps you evaluate if the job is right for you.

Reflect and Follow Up

After the interview, reflect: is this the company and role for you? If you haven’t heard back by the expected timeline, follow up with a polite phone call or email. This shows initiative and professionalism.

Where to Look for Jobs

The job market is constantly changing, so explore multiple channels. Try Seek, Trade Me Jobs, Student Job Search, local newspapers, Facebook community groups, and even walking into workplaces that interest you.

AI and Interview Prep

Yes, AI can help! From drafting scripts for cold calls to practising responses with mock interviews, AI tools can be an excellent addition to your preparation toolkit. Resources like Mindstream.news list some of the best AI tools to explore.

Final Thoughts

Interviews aren’t just about employers assessing you – they’re also your chance to decide if the role and company are the right fit. By preparing thoroughly, practising your answers, and staying confident, you’ll not only make a strong impression but also feel empowered throughout the process. Remember: you were invited because they see potential in you. Now it’s your chance to show them why you’re the best fit.