Tackling Interview Nerves: Confidence-Boosting Strategies That Work

Introduction
Interviews can be nerve-wracking. Whether you’ve spent hours tailoring your CV and preparing your talking points for a permanent role, or you’re stepping into an interim position after discussing the role with your recruitment consultant, it’s completely normal to feel anxious. But with the right preparation and mindset, you can build your confidence and show up as your best self.

As recruiters, we often hear candidates share their concerns about nerves, and we also get feedback from clients about how nervousness can impact performance. That’s why part of our role at Tile Hill is not just to connect you with opportunities, but to prepare, coach, and support you through the entire process. Understanding this, we’ve put together some strategies to help you stay calm and confident throughout your interview.

By preparing effectively and managing stress before and during your interview, you can boost your confidence and present yourself in the best possible light. Here’s how.

Before the Interview

Tip 1: Preparation is Key
One of the best ways to handle nerves is thorough preparation. Candidates who perform well in interviews are those who have invested time in researching the organisation in detail. This includes:

• Reading the corporate plan or vision set by the administration.
• Researching the directorate and relevant public documents.
• Reviewing structure charts and identifying gaps.

Doing this groundwork allows you to tailor your responses, helping to mitigate uncertainty. Candidates who demonstrate a genuine passion for the role give interviewers confidence that they will be able to contribute effectively from day one.
Pro tip: An interview isn’t an exam. If it helps, have notes with key points available to refer to during your conversation.

Additionally, speaking with your recruitment consultant before your interview can provide valuable insights. They can give you a clearer idea of what to expect, including:

• The format of the interview (technical vs. cultural fit).
• Who will be on the panel.
• Specific aspects the panel may focus on.
• Feedback from your application.

Recruiters often receive a detailed brief on the role, which can help you align your answers with the employer’s expectations.

Tip 2: Manage Stress
Stress from your day job or personal commitments can amplify pre-interview nerves. Instead of viewing interview prep as an additional stressor, reframe it as an opportunity to focus and reset.

Here are a few ways to manage stress effectively:

• Exercise: Going for a walk or engaging in light movement can help reduce nervous energy and clear your mind.
• Mindfulness techniques: Deep breathing, yoga, or meditation can help ground you and create a calm, focused mindset.
• Practice answering questions: Rehearse responses to common interview questions, using examples from your CV and supporting statement. Confident candidates are those who have prepared concise and impactful examples that showcase their skills and achievements.

Tip 3: Plan the Logistics
Feeling physically well can positively influence your mental state. Consider the following:

• Eat a balanced meal before your interview, avoiding excessive sugar or processed food to prevent energy spikes and dips.
• Stay hydrated to keep your mind sharp and focused.
• If you’re fasting, consider informing the panel if you’re comfortable doing so. Transparency can help set expectations and create a more understanding environment.
• Prioritise sleep the night before to ensure you are well-rested and at your best.

During the Interview

1. Focus on Your Breath
Taking slow, deep breaths throughout the interview will help you stay calm and collected. It also allows you time to formulate your answers before responding.

2. Listen Actively
Ensure you fully understand the question before answering. Taking a moment to process your response is better than rushing. Keeping a notebook handy to jot down key points can help you stay on track and avoid going off on tangents.

3. Be Yourself
Authenticity matters. Letting your personality shine through will make the conversation feel more natural and engaging.

4. Use the STAR Method
When answering behavioural interview questions, structuring your responses using the STAR method ensures clarity and impact:

• Situation: Briefly describe the background of the scenario.
• Task: Explain the specific task or challenge you faced.
• Action: Detail the steps you took to address it.
• Result: Share the outcome, highlighting your achievements and key learnings.

Final Thoughts

Handling interview nerves is about preparation, mindset, and strategy. By researching thoroughly, managing stress effectively, and using structured techniques during the interview, you can approach the process with greater confidence. Remember, interviews are a two-way conversation, just as much about you assessing the company as them evaluating you.

You’ve put in the work, now trust yourself. Confidence doesn’t mean having no nerves; it means pushing through them with purpose. You’ve got this. Good luck!