How to Position Yourself in an Interview: Tips to Calm Your Nerves and Put Your Best Foot Forward

Let’s be honest, job interviews can feel like walking into the lion’s den. But the truth is, most of us have been there, trying to keep calm while secretly worrying if we’ll say something daft. The good news? With some solid prep, you can ease those nerves and give yourself the best chance to shine, even in this turbulent job market.

Preparation is Everything (and I Mean, Everything)

First things first, research:

I know, it sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people still turn up without doing their homework. Get stuck into the company’s website, read up on their latest news, and have a peek at their social media. Dive deep into LinkedIn to check out the profiles of the team members you’ll meet. What’s their background? What’s their journey been like? You’ll get a feel for the kind of people they hire, and that bit of insight will help you strike up more meaningful conversations.

And here’s a golden rule:

Never ever get to the end of the interview and say, “Nope, I don’t have any questions, you’ve covered everything!” This isn’t a pop quiz; this is your chance to show you’re really interested. Ask about the role, the team, and the company’s future. Heck, even ask them about their own journey. Show them you’ve done your research and you’re in it for more than just the pay cheque.

Tell Your Story – Career First, Then the Fun Stuff

When they inevitably ask, “So, tell me about yourself,” don’t panic. Start with your professional background. Walk them through your career in a way that shows how it’s all led to this moment. Then, end with something personal, something that gives them a glimpse of you, the person behind the CV. Whether it's your passion for running marathons, cooking up a storm in the kitchen, or that slightly weird hobby you’re proud of, adding a bit of personal flair makes you memorable. Plus, it shows you’re human, not a corporate robot.

Celebrate Your Wins – Then Talk About the Future

Now’s not the time to be shy. This is your moment to showcase what you’re proud of. Talk about your achievements and how they’ve shaped you as a professional. But don’t stop there, show some enthusiasm for what’s ahead. Why are you excited about this role and this company? What is it about them that gets you out of bed in the morning (besides the alarm)?

Ask About Growth – Plant Roots, Not Just Seeds

It’s a turbulent job market right now, and companies know it. So let them know you’re in it for the long haul. Ask about career progression opportunities, how do they support growth? What does the company’s future look like? You’re not just looking for a pitstop, you’re looking to set down roots and be part of the company’s fabric.

Dig Into Their Culture – It’s About More Than the Perks

Let’s face it, company culture matters. You don’t want to be stuck in a place where you feel like a square peg in a round hole. Ask real questions that matter to you. How do they approach work-life balance? What’s their stance on diversity and inclusion? How do they support employee well-being? It’s not just about impressing the interviewer, it’s about finding out if you’ll actually enjoy working there.

Remember, it’s a tough job market out there. If you’ve been struggling to find your next role, you’re not alone, loads of brilliant people are in the same boat. So take a deep breath, prepare like a pro, and walk into that interview ready to show them why you’re the one they’ve been looking for. With the right mindset and a bit of grit, you’ve got this!