Everyone can get a little nervous during a job interview. That’s totally normal, and nothing to be ashamed of! And in the world of COVID-19, job interviews have only become more complicated (make sure you know where that mute button is!) However, as Kappa Deltas, it’s important that we build confidence in one another and help sisters as they dive into the professional world.  So, whether you’re an interview-expert or a newbie applying for your first job, we’ve got you covered. We’ve compiled our best tips to keep you confident during the interview process!

1. Do your research

Let’s be honest, we’re all more confident when we know what we’re talking about. No one likes that panicked feeling that comes when they don’t know the answer to a question. That’s why it pays to study up before an interview. Take some time to read up on the company, industry and position you’re applying for! Do some digging on the history, mission and recent initiatives of the company, as well as industry trends and the competitors. Having that extra knowledge in your back pocket will make you feel more comfortable and prepared! Plus, it’ll show the hiring manager that you went that extra mile. Always a plus.

2. Practice, practice, practice

While you can’t always predict what you’ll be asked during an interview, you can pretty much bet on a few standard questions: Why are you interested in this role? What are your strengths and weaknesses? What are your long-term career goals? How would you describe yourself at work?

Bonus tip: it’s always a good idea to have your personal “elevator pitch” perfected. Have a few sentences practiced detailing your education, past experiences, and why you’re passionate about your career. Feel free to include a little about your personal life too: your hobbies and interests. They want to get to know you both professionally and personally! Having that spiel ready will make you feel incredibly confident for: “Tell us about yourself.”

3. Got Qs?

Many interviewers will ask if you have some questions of your own at the end of an interview, which is why it’s always smart to have a few ready to go, just in case you blank! What’s the office culture like?What does success look like for this role a year from now? What do you love most about working for the company? Is there potential for growth? What’s a typical day like? How does the company give back to the community? What kinds of programs or software do you use?

It’s important to ask questions to see if the role is a good fit for you. Remember, you’re interviewing them too!

4. Set yourself up for success the night before

Trust us, a good night’s sleep is the best confidence booster around! While you may be tempted to stay up late and prepare, it’s a much better idea to head to bed early and get a solid snooze the night before an interview. That way, you’ll wake up feeling refreshed and mentally sharp! Also, it never hurts to pick out your interview outfit the night before, even if it’s just a waist-up ensemble for Zoom. That way, you won’t find yourself in a clothing crisis the day of! When it comes time to get dressed, you’ll be faced with one less stress.

5. Remember, everyone there has been in your shoes

If you find your nerves getting the best of you before or during the interview, remember to take a deep breath. Everyone there, at one point in time, has gone through the interview process. They understand it can be intimidating. Draw on your Kappa Delta experience for some inspiration! Tell yourself you’ve got this and go confidently.

Looking for more tips and career advice? Check out Kappa Delta’s opens in a new windowLinkedIn page!