Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but they don’t have to be. With the right mindset and preparation, you can walk into any interview room (or log into a video call) feeling confident and ready to impress. Here are ten practical and entertaining hacks to help you rule your next interview:
1. The Mirror Power Pose
Before you even leave the house, take a few minutes to stand in front of the mirror and strike a power pose. Think Wonder Woman or Superman—feet wide, hands on hips, chin up. This may sound silly, but studies show that power poses can boost your confidence and reduce stress. It’s like a mini pep talk with your body language.
2. Stalk the Company (in a Good Way)
Do some deep-dive research on the company. Check out their social media, read recent news articles about them, and get familiar with their mission and values. Mentioning a specific project or campaign they’ve done will show you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in being part of their team.
3. Master the Art of the “Brag Bank”
Create a “brag bank”—a list of your top achievements, skills, and experiences. Practice turning these into short, impactful stories that you can easily reference during the interview. When asked about your strengths, challenges you’ve overcome, or times you’ve made an impact, pull from your brag bank to answer confidently.
4. The 2-Minute Tech Check
If your interview is virtual, take two minutes to test your tech setup. Make sure your internet connection is stable, your camera and microphone work, and your background is professional but not too distracting. This simple step can save you from embarrassing technical difficulties and keep the focus on you, not your equipment.
5. Dress the Part (Even on Zoom)
Dress as you would for an in-person interview, even if it’s virtual. It’s not just about how you look on camera—dressing professionally can help put you in the right mindset. Plus, you never know when you might need to stand up to grab something, and you don’t want to be caught in your pajama pants.
6. The “STAR” Strategy
When answering behavioral questions (like “Tell me about a time you…”), use the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result. This helps structure your answers, making them clear and concise while highlighting your problem-solving skills and accomplishments.
7. Ask Smart Questions
Remember, interviews are a two-way street. Prepare thoughtful questions that show your interest in the role and company. Ask about the company culture, team dynamics, or recent industry trends. This shows you’re engaged and seriously considering how you can contribute to their success.
8. The Post-It Note Trick
For virtual interviews, place a few Post-It notes around your screen with key points you want to mention or questions you want to ask. Just make sure they’re out of the camera’s view. This subtle reminder system can help you stay on track without seeming scripted.
9. Show Enthusiasm
A little enthusiasm goes a long way. Smile, maintain good eye contact, and show genuine excitement about the opportunity. Employers want to hire people who are not only qualified but also passionate about the job. Don’t be afraid to let that shine through.
10. The Thank-You Note That Stands Out
After the interview, send a personalized thank-you note or email. Reference something specific you discussed during the interview to make it more memorable. This small gesture shows your appreciation and reinforces your interest in the position. It’s a simple but powerful way to leave a lasting impression.
Bonus Hack: Embrace the Silence
If you’re hit with a tough question, don’t be afraid to take a moment to think before you respond. A brief pause can show that you’re thoughtful and not just spitting out the first thing that comes to mind. Plus, it gives you time to craft a more insightful answer.
Interviews are your chance to shine and show potential employers why you’re the perfect fit for the role. By using these hacks, you can walk into (or log onto) your next interview with confidence, ready to impress and land the job of your dreams. Good luck!
