How to Increase Your Confidence for Interviews

First comes studying for a trade qualification at one of our centres, then, once you’ve passed, comes the job interviews.

This can seem a little daunting, especially if it’s your first experience since deciding to make a career change or leaving full time education. So, in order to give your confidence a little boost, here are a few top tips which’ll get you prepared in no time at all.

Know What You Want

Many of you will be familiar with stereotypical questions like ‘where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?’ or ‘why did you want to apply for this position?’ – however, you can only truly answer these if you’ve considered them prior to walking through the employer’s front door.

Be self-aware and spend time reflecting on what is important to you and what you aspire your career to be. Once you understand your true motivations and values, only then can your articulate an honest and true response when questioned in an interview.

Be Yourself

Once you know what you want, don’t waver from it or you may find yourself in a job you hate and going nowhere fast. Although you may want to present the best version of yourself, it must still be realistic.

For example, if you’re naturally a quiet person, don’t go in all guns blazing and force yourself to be extroverted in order to get noticed and stand out from other applicants. Instead consider how your qualities can be a benefit to the organisation – introverts are often great listeners, focused and organised. At the end of the day, being authentic will also command more respect and you’ll be happier and more confident in yourself.

Don’t Dilly Dally

Procrastination is easy when change is afoot – it can be scary after all – but instead of dilly dallying or working yourself up so that you anxiously mull over the reasons why you’re not going to get the job before you even take the interview, just rip off that plaster and do it.

Some of the best opportunities are a little scary, but there’s no risk without reward. Stepping out of your comfort zone will give you a sense of pride and give you confidence you can do it again when applying for future positions.

Just Breathe

When you become anxious your heart rate increases, and noticing this increase may work you up even more. At the same time, blood flows away from the brain, which can then have an adverse effect your cognitive function and see you struggle to answer questions clearly and concisely.

To avoid this try breathing techniques and mindfulness which will help you remain present and calm your nerves. This will bring oxygen back to your brain and ensure you can give the best possible answer.

Remember: It’s Not the End of the World

Being successful at an interview and being offered a new job is a great confidence boost and is a metaphorical tap on the back that all your hard work has paid off. However, it’s important to think that it’s not the end of the world if you don’t get the job and try not to put too much pressure on yourself.

Yes, it may be a little demoralising and progression up the career ladder may take a little longer, but everything happens for a reason. The employer didn’t think it was a good fit, but your ideal job may be just around the corner. All you can do is your best.

Put Your Best Foot Forward with Help from Access Training

Of course, if you’re confident in your knowledge and training, this can make you relax more easily. At Access Training, our courses are designed with career changers in mind and includes intensive, yet flexible, training in both practical methods and theory.

If you’re considering a career change and would like to start a new job in trade, explore our course offerings and get in touch today to learn more. Alternatively, discover more blog reading.