On Thursday, November 8, 2018, I attended GRF Seema’s seminar on interview preparation. Granted, I never looked forward to interviews. And I most likely never will. Interviews often put people on the spot, forcing them to think critically and spontaneously. They test people’s behavior and composure under the burden of watchful eyes. Most individuals, including myself, can remember instances in which they cracked under the pressure and were consumed by nervousness.
However, GRF Seema explained that a person does not have to and should not enter an interview blindly. She emphasized that are many ways to build confidence by preparing for an interview beforehand. For example, I could check the recruiting company’s website for information about the open position’s qualifications, responsibilities, and goals. Then, I could tailor my responses to the specifications that the company is looking for, highlighting experiences that would make me appear like a good fit. Additionally, I could practice by formulating personal responses to sample questions that I find online. Thus, I can familiarize myself with all types of behavioral questions that an interviewer could ask, decreasing the likelihood of any unwanted surprises.
With this in mind, I still did not like the idea of stepping into an interview room by the end of the seminar. But I will certainly try to be more prepared.
I also get nervous when it comes to interviews, but I have learned being prepared can help ease the interview experience. One thing that I do after researching the company/institution and position I am applying for, I tend to formulate questions that I might be asked. I then reflect on these questions and try to answer them out loud or write down my ideas. Thus, when I am interviewed, my answers are bit more organized and include work experiences I probably would have forgotten if I hadn’t thought about the questions beforehand. I also talk to other people who have gone through the interview process for the same position I am applying, so I could receive advice and know what to expect. It’s not always easy to be interviewed, but coming in prepared can always help!
I have also had a similar fear of interviews before. Reading through your post, I felt the need to maybe talk to an expert, or maybe Seema herself, and polish my interviewing skills.
After a few nerve-wrecking interviews I also found for myself that being organized and informed is the best way to prep for an interview. Research on the company is crucial and can very well determine the outcomes. I agree that although interviews can seem impossible, a little research can go a long way.
After reading through your post, I like how you emphasize confidence and preparation. Another tip that I would like to add on is to do a mock interview to better prepare yourself.