What do you do if your previous job interviews didn't go well?

If previous job interviews didn't go well, it's crucial to reflect on the experience and use it as a learning opportunity. Seek feedback from interviewers if possible, and identify areas for improvement. Work on enhancing specific skills through practice and training. Consider mock interviews to build confidence and refine responses. Stay positive and maintain a proactive attitude towards future opportunities. Thoroughly prepare for each interview and leverage your professional network for support and guidance. Remember, setbacks are common, but they can lead to growth and eventual success in landing your next job.

As a career consultant, I always advise people to take notes immediately after an interview while the experience is fresh in their minds. This not only helps in reflecting on whether their responses aligned with the company's expectations but also helps in identifying areas for improvement. I've learned through my professional and personal journey that setbacks can be a catalyst for growth. While receiving a negative response can be disappointing, embracing failure as a pathway to success can empower you. It allows you to approach future interviews with renewed confidence and a clearer sense of direction.

Making a lot of preparation for an interview and then blowing it is never pleasant. We are rarely provided with feedback after an interview, so we have to determine what went well and what went wrong on our own. To improve our interview skills and ensure future success, let's take the time to self-assess after every interview. 1. A competent interviewer follows three guidelines when crafting his/her answers: tell a story, include measurable metrics/ results, and anticipate objections/ resolve them. 2. Practicing obvious HR interview questions, such as: Tell me about yourself. ′Why do you want to work here.′, What are your strengths/weaknesses′, Where do you see yourself in 5 years′, etc. is an easy way to improve interviewing skills.

If you noticed any gaps during past interviews, consider taking proactive steps to address them. For technical skills, you might explore courses or certifications to enhance your expertise. I usually suggest LinkedIn Learning (for Premium users) or Grow with Google (several free online courses). For soft skills like communication or teamwork, seek opportunities such as volunteering or joining professional groups to refine these abilities. It's crucial to align your skillset with the demands of your industry. By continually honing your skills, you'll not only boost your confidence but also increase your competitiveness in the job market.

When listing your job duties, focus on your achievements. Include numbers like “increased sales by 30%” or “reduced costs by RM10,000.” Numbers carry weight, and this helps employers see the value you bring. Also, your resume shouldn’t be too long or too short. Make sure to highlight relevant experience and include keywords that both ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) and human recruiters are looking for. I’ve seen resumes that are too short and don’t convey enough about a person’s experience or achievements. Avoid that by adding more detail about what you’ve accomplished.

Practicing your interview technique can be a game-changer in boosting your confidence and performance. From my experience offering interview preparation, I've seen firsthand the positive impact it has on my clients. They often report feeling more confident and prepared, understanding that an interview is a two-way street where they can ask questions too. I usually suggest that they have a few examples of situations ready, using the SMART technique. Once you have those examples prepared, you can adapt to almost any situation the interviewer presents. This not only demonstrates your skills but also showcases your ability to think quickly, creatively, and communicate effectively.

Lastly, a gentle reminder to all job seekers: stay positive. The job search journey can be challenging, and filled with ups and downs that might test your confidence and resilience. Remember that setbacks are a natural part of the process, not a reflection of your worth or abilities. Each interview, regardless of the outcome, is a chance to learn and grow. So, be kind to yourself, stay hopeful, and trust that your perseverance will lead you to the right opportunity. ????

Don't take rejections personal! A rejection has nothing to do with you as a person. Not even with your professional you. Is just that there was somebody else more suitable (or that the hiring team thought they will be more suitable) for that particular role.

Primero, si puedes, pide feedback honesto de tu entrevistador para conocer cuáles pueden ser tus áreas de mejora, así tendrás una mejor idea de donde poner el foco en el momento de practicar. Practicar, practicar y practicar, para esto trata de apoyarte en un Mentor/Coach que tenga sólida experiencia en procesos de entrevista, de esta forma puede ayudarte a simular un escenario lo más parecido posible a tu futura entrevista. Si no puedes hacerlo, entonces practica con un familiar/ amigo. En mis sesiones de Mock Interview, siempre les recuerdo a mis Mentees lo clave de practicar hasta cuando no tienen entrevista planificada, porque así van creando su "discurso" lo que les ayuda a presentar su experiencia con toda la seguridad posible??