Interviewing can be stressful and I am sure you can think of a ton of “what if” scenarios where the interview goes badly. Stress is common but don’t let it get the best of you. You have prepared for this moment. You researched the company, you have a firm understanding of the role and ways you will be able to make a difference, if given the opportunity, and you have examples to back you up! 

Remember, an interview is just a conversation between you and the interviewer(s).

It’s Just a Conversation 

The interview has begun and your preparation has paid off. You showed up with everything you need and feel confident you started the interview off by making a good first impression. Here are a few additional tips to give you confidence during the meeting.

• Be Confident. You have a lot to offer and now is your time to share how you will be able to utilize your skills and knowledge to help make an impact. Speak confidently and exude that same confidence through your body language. 
• Be Aware of Your Body Language. Feel free to use hand gestures when speaking. This shows enthusiasm. Nod in agreement to show you are listening to the interviewer. Keep your feet grounded so you don’t look like you are fidgeting, in case you need to shift your legs. Sit up straight, but lean forward to show you are engaged in the conversation. Make frequent eye contact by looking at the interviewer’s face every few seconds to show confidence. 
• Just Breathe. As the questions start coming your way, it is helpful to take a breath or pause before answering so you can gather your thoughts and respond. If you find yourself unsure of how to answer a question or do not understand what the interviewer is asking, it is okay to say, “Could you please rephrase the question?” or “Let me think about that for a moment.” Make sure you are speaking clearly and concisely as you respond.
• Give examples. Don’t forget to use the S.T.A.R. model when answering questions. S.T.A.R. stands for Situation/Task, Action, Result.In your examples, you will want to start off by explaining what you needed to accomplish or the situation you faced (Situation/Task). Next, you will want to show what you specifically did to accomplish the task or how you handled the situation (Action). Finally, you will want to explain the outcome (Result). This will ensure you are providing the detail the interviewer needs to assess your qualifications for the role.
• Notetaking. It is appropriate to make notes as the conversation ensues, this will help you ask follow up questions or gain more clarity on things that interest you. Make sure your notetaking does not distract you from what the interviewer is saying.
• Ask Questions. As the interview progresses, you will want to make sure you have gathered all of the information you need to assess whether or not this is the right fit for you. You can do this by asking the right questions to learn more about what is important to you. Don’t wait until the end of the conversation to ask your questions. Fit them in where appropriate to gain more understanding, so you may more effectively answer the interviewer’s questions.

As the interview starts to wrap up, you will want to make sure the interviewer has all of the information they need to determine if your qualifications align with what they are seeking. If needed, ask additional questions and do not be afraid to ask for the job. Stay tuned to learn more about how to do just that!

If you want to make a compelling difference in the lives of others, are enthusiastic about life-long learning, and are seeking employment where your strengths will be valued, then Wesley Enhanced Living is the place to be! Check out our current career opportunities to learn more!