Job Hunting with a Growth Mindset: Prepare for Career Progression
Job hunting isn’t just about finding a role. It’s about the career path that’s on offer too. With this in mind, having a growth mindset is important at every stage…
Interviews can present some of the hardest tests in our adult lives. One hour alone in an interview room can simultaneously assess our intelligence, eloquence, decision-making and problem-solving skills. It therefore makes sense that we should do what we can to be in the best possible frame of mind. Try not to place pressure on yourself or think about how badly you want or need the job. Don’t wonder what might happen if you don’t succeed. We’ve combined a couple of key techniques we believe will enhance your enjoyment of the interview experience, because essentially a more relaxed you will deliver the best possible interview.
1. Get a good night’s sleep
Having an early night is so much more conducive to a positive interview, compared to burning the midnight oil. A well-rested mind and body will leave you feeling significantly more refreshed and ready for interview. If you have some prep left to complete, have an early night and wake up earlier to finish it off instead. Research shows that we are at our most productive in the few hours after we wake up, so aim for a morning interview if you possibly can. Not only will you be more likely to successfully engage with your interviewers, but a well-slept you is also more likely to appear fresher and healthier too.
2. Plan and prep
Alongside all the normal planning and preparation you’d undertake for an interview, ensure you also plan the logistics for an early arrival, allowing for any potential transport delays and/or toilet breaks! We’d even advise allowing enough time to spend 20 minutes in a nearby coffee shop where you can complete a final once-over of your CV, job description and notes.
3. Meditation
There’s a lot to be said for a calm mind. Whether it’s the night before or the morning of your interview, try and spend an hour clearing your mind of the clutter. If that’s not possible, try and squeeze in a little meditation and deep breathing in the additional time you’ve allowed yourself to be early. Arriving with a positive and composed demeanour is significantly favourable to a flustered interviewee who’s been battling with rowdy commuters!
4. Stand up while you wait
Continue to stand regardless of whether or not the receptionist invites you to take a seat (unless it is evidently inappropriate to do so). It will allow you to maintain composure and assume a layer of confidence when the interviewers arrive to greet you. Balancing equally on both feet will also mean you can breathe properly as your diaphragm sits in its optimum position.
5. Posture
It’s equally important to continue to breathe deeply in the interview room, and to do that you’ll need to maintain good posture. An upright position with your shoulders back will also subconsciously assume an air of self-respect and give you the assurance to ask interesting questions and create rapport with your interviewers. While body language affects how others see us, good posture will also impact the testosterone and cortisol levels in the brain – giving you an extra boost of confidence.
