Pump Up Your Confidence: 6-Point Checklist Before a Job Interview
Congratulations for landing yourself a job interview! You are ready for a job and now you need to prepare for the interview. Adjust to a non-military work culture. Unlike in the military, you will need to address your interviewer by the first or last name. Adopt a different language to mention time. For example, say 4 pm instead of 16:00 hours. Explain your position in the military in simple terms and avoid complex military titles. Keep an open mind to the changes and to a new type of job. You also need to be flexible in terms of the work environment and job duties.
Proofreading your curriculum vitae (CV) is crucial. It increases your chances of getting called for an interview. A CV that flows smoothly and is free from any errors creates a good first impression on recruiters. Proofreading prevents spelling and grammatical mistakes. Take time to go through your CV and ensure there are no mistakes. Check whether all information provided is correct and do not fake. Organize your CV and do not cramp the text in it. You can seek professional help for proofreading your CV. It will save you time and guarantee a high-quality CV.
Are you nervous about the interview? Are you unsure of what to expect? The transition from the military to any other workforce may seem challenging, but it’s not impossible. Your work discipline will come in handy. The tips below will help you prepare before the interview and boost your confidence.
Assess the company and the job position
Research the company and the job profile so you can be well prepared. It will also give you an insight into the company’s history, work, culture and achievements. Assessing the job position will help you identify the skills that you have and can bring to the company.
You must also prepare a set of questions that you would ask the recruiter at the end of the interview. This will be an easy task if you research well. Asking questions will demonstrate that you are interested in the role and you have done your research.
Prepare for questions
Make a list of some common interview questions and some unexpected questions. Form your answers to them. If you are prepared for all sorts of questions, you will feel confident. Find someone to take your mock interviews.
Be calm during the interview and think before answering. If you find a question tricky, then take a deep breath, relax, think and answer.
Know the location and the interview time
Confirm the day, time and location of the interview beforehand. Get familiar with the interview location and practice reaching there few days before the interview. This will help you calculate the time it takes you to reach. If needed, you can also download a map of the route.
Reach the location a few minutes before the scheduled time. This will make you feel relaxed. You can use the restroom and check if your outfit and appearance are alright. At the restroom, you can look at the mirror and tell yourself ‘I can do this’. This will be confidence booster right before going for the interview.
Carry your documents and a pen
Remember to carry documents and other essentials for the interview. Take a print-out of your CV, the job advert and remember the name of the hiring manager. Carry recommendation letters, certificates and the names of your references. It is always a good idea to have with you some extra documents at the interview. Remember to arrange your documents in the file, well before the interview.
You must keep a pen and notepad with you to take notes. The pen will also come handy if you are asked to fill a form.
Eat well and get enough sleep
It is important for you to sleep well the night before your interview. Sufficient sleep helps you to think and keeps your brain active. You must also consume a nutritious meal prior to your interview. It will help to function properly and feel energetic. Avoid having a hot beverage just before the interview.
Adopt the interview dress code and manners
Keep a formal dress ready well before the interview, even if it is a phone interview. You don’t want to wait until the last minute to find an outfit. A clean and ironed formal outfit will automatically enhance your confidence. As a military veteran, you are organized and punctual. Maintain these traits because they will be also appreciated in jobs other than the military workforce.
Learn to greet the interviewer and be jolly. You don’t need to show in your personality that you have a military background, so loosen up a little. Shake hands with the interviewer and switch off your phone. Turning off your phone completely avoids any form of distraction.
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By Bella Williams
As an academic researcher & private tutor, Bella guides the new age professionals and students with their career. A graduate from Monash University, Bella organizes free coaching workshops and promotes free sharing of knowledge. You can also find her on LinkedIn.
