What do you do if your job interview confidence needs a boost?

1 Reflect on your strengths

One of the core principles of motivational interviewing is to express empathy and affirmation to the person you are talking to, which helps them feel understood and valued. You can do the same for yourself by reflecting on your strengths and achievements, and how they relate to the job you are applying for. Write down a list of positive qualities, skills, and experiences that you have, and review them before the interview. This will help you reinforce your self-esteem and confidence, and remind you of the value you can offer to the employer.

2 Explore your goals

Another principle of motivational interviewing is to develop discrepancy, which means helping the person you are talking to see the gap between their current situation and their desired goals, and how change can help them bridge that gap. You can do the same for yourself by exploring your goals and motivations for applying for the job, and how it aligns with your values and interests. Write down what you hope to gain from the job, what challenges you expect to face, and what benefits you can bring to the employer. This will help you clarify your purpose and direction, and prepare you to articulate your fit and enthusiasm for the role.

3 Practice your responses

A third principle of motivational interviewing is to roll with resistance, which means accepting and acknowledging the person's doubts, fears, or objections, and helping them find their own reasons and solutions for change. You can do the same for yourself by practicing your responses to common or difficult interview questions, and anticipating any potential obstacles or concerns that the employer may have. Write down or record your answers, and ask for feedback from a friend, mentor, or coach. This will help you improve your communication skills, address any gaps or weaknesses in your application, and reduce your anxiety and uncertainty.

4 Use affirmations

A fourth principle of motivational interviewing is to support self-efficacy, which means enhancing the person's confidence and belief in their ability to change and achieve their goals. You can do the same for yourself by using affirmations, which are positive and empowering statements that you repeat to yourself. Write down or say some affirmations that relate to your job interview, such as "I am qualified and capable", "I can handle any challenge", or "I deserve this opportunity". This will help you boost your mood, calm your nerves, and increase your optimism and motivation.

5 Be curious and open

A fifth principle of motivational interviewing is to evoke change talk, which means eliciting and reinforcing the person's own arguments and reasons for change, and helping them overcome their ambivalence. You can do the same for yourself by being curious and open during the job interview, and showing interest and enthusiasm for the employer, the role, and the industry. Ask questions, listen actively, and share relevant examples and stories that demonstrate your skills, values, and personality. This will help you establish rapport, show your initiative and creativity, and highlight your fit and potential for the job.

6 Learn from feedback

A sixth principle of motivational interviewing is to plan for action, which means helping the person set realistic and achievable goals, identify and overcome barriers, and commit to change. You can do the same for yourself by learning from feedback, whether it is positive or negative, and using it to improve your job interview performance and outcomes. Ask for feedback from the employer, thank them for their time and consideration, and follow up with a thank-you note or email. This will help you show your professionalism, gratitude, and interest, and also identify your strengths and areas for improvement.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?