Job interview without secrets

Interviews are generally hard and stressful but they can also be quite pleasant. It’s good to change your point of view on that matter. Instead of thinking: “someone is going to judge me”, it’s better to come with a positive attitude – “it’s going to be a nice meeting where I can meet interesting people”. Still, we know that job interviews are stressful. That’s why we prepared a few tips on how to prepare for an interview and how to manage stress. If you follow our advice and think through possible interview scenarios, you may feel more relieved and you will definitely be able to cope with stress and tension much better, so when the time comes, you will be your best self!

Job interview as one of the most stressful life events

Stress is the most common emotion accompanying people going to an interview. It’s natural that we do not feel comfortable in a situation in which we are being questioned and assessed. This is probably why an interview is indicated as one of the most stressful events in life. What’s worse – this “nightmare” repeats itself from time to time! Regardless of the form of the job interview (video, telephone or “live” conversation), the perspective of being judged and the fear of negative self-perception is difficult. So everyone wants to do their best during the interview and be done with it as soon as possible.

You can learn it!

But how can we do it? How can we do it well and control our emotions? The following tips will tell you what you can do to feel more confident during job interviews.

First of all, you should be well-prepared for the meeting with the recruiter. There are questions that you will surely be asked. These are issues related to professional life, skills, passions and knowledge of foreign languages. Surely, the recruiter will surprise you with an unforeseen question, but you are able to prepare for most of the interview.

Think how to talk about your job experience

The recruiter will surely ask about your work experience. They may want to know why you are no longer working in a company, what you liked about that job and what you didn’t. They will ask about the scope of duties in previous positions. Job applicants often face the same dilemma: should you speak badly about your previous employers and be honest about your reasons for dismissal? If you have been disciplinary dismissed, it is better to inform the recruiter about it (he will probably find out anyway). However, if the decision to leave the company was due to a disagreement between you and your employer, tell them about it. However, be sure to talk about the facts and not offend anyone. What if you don’t have work experience? No worries! Since you have been invited for an interview, apparently lack of experience is not an obstacle. Instead of talking about work, you can showcase your strengths.

What languages do you speak?

If a foreign language is required in the job offer and you claim in your resume that you know it, then expect a question to be asked in that language. During the recruitment interview, someone will definitely check the declared knowledge of the foreign language. Remember this and never lie about such things. It will always come out, and you will feel ashamed.

Money – how to talk about them?

Preferably – straightforward. If your employer (like Eurojob) mentions the rate in the advertisement, you know it when you submit your resume. The recruiters assume salary is satisfying for you if you apply for the job. However, you can always ask about additional benefits and working and living conditions.

What to ask the recruiter?

Well, something work-related for sure! If you feel that during the conversation you have not been presented with the company’s full offer or you have not understood everything that has been said – go ahead and ask! The end of the recruitment interview is the perfect moment to clarify all ambiguities. If at the interview stage there is no decision to sign the contract, find out when you can expect it and how you will get an answer.

Before the job interview, it is worth taking a critical look at your resume and consider what someone might want to ask. This exercise allows you to think about your answers. Also, expect questions about your free time, your passions and interests. The recruiter will be happy to meet you as a person, not just a potential employee.

Take it easy – how to stress less

Just preparing for the interview will significantly reduce your stress. However, if you know that an interview puts you under a lot of tension, there are several ways you can help yourself. First of all, try to accept this feeling instead of fighting it. When starting the interview, you can let the recruiter know that you are very nervous. It will make you both feel relaxed. Also, remember: the recruiter is also human! Who knows – maybe he also gets stressed during the conversation? Breathing also helps a lot on the nerves: take 10 deep and calm breaths before an appointment will help you calm your emotions.

No worries!

Remember that you are talking to the other person. This person (or people) can also have a slip of their tongue or make mistakes. Everyone in the world is under stress, so don’t worry about your nerves. Bring a good mood and a big smile to the meeting, and everything will be fine!