Do you get nervous before an interview? You’re not alone. These practical confidence boosters can help you feel grounded, focused, and ready.
In a recent TedGlobal presentation, social psychologist, Amy Cuddy, from Harvard Business School, outlined optimal pre-interview behaviours. Instead of the typical waiting room activities like browsing your phone or reviewing notes, consider these confidence boosting activities:
1. Try a Power Pose
- Before the interview, stand tall with your hands on your hips (Cuddy calls this the “Wonder Woman” stance).
- Just 2 minutes of this posture can reduce stress and increase confidence.
- It’s backed by research and easy to do in a private space.
2. Use Positive Affirmations
Say encouraging phrases like:
- “I’m ready for this.”
- “I bring value.”
- “I’ve done great things before — and I can do it again.”
Repeat while taking slow, deep breaths.
Reflect on Your Strengths
- Think about times you succeeded.
- Mentally review compliments, feedback, or LinkedIn recommendations.
- Let past wins remind you of your capabilities.
These simple practices help shift your mindset, calm your nerves, and boost your presence ahead of an otherwise nerve-wracking experience.
Disclaimer: Opinion of Recruitment Consultant
The advice provided in this article is based on the opinions and expertise of a recruitment consultant. It is important to note that individual circumstances may vary, and the information presented here is intended for general informational purposes only. The recruitment consultant’s opinions and recommendations are not intended to be a substitute for professional advice tailored to your specific situation. The recruitment consultant assumes no responsibility for any errors or omissions in the content or for any actions taken based on the information provided in this article.
Furthermore, the recruitment landscape is dynamic, and industry standards may change over time. The opinions expressed in this article reflect the perspective of the recruitment consultant at the time of writing and may not necessarily represent the prevailing views in the future.
By accessing and reading this article, you acknowledge and agree that the information provided is not a guarantee of specific outcomes, and you should exercise your own judgment and discretion when applying any advice or suggestions contained herein.