Interviews can be intimidating when societal pressures or internal doubts come into play. This article provides key tips to help you navigate interviews with confidence, ensuring you present yourself in the best possible light and set the foundation for a successful career.
1. Research the company’s values and culture
Preparation is key to acing any interview, and researching the company you’re applying to is one of the most important steps you can take. By understanding the organisation’s values, mission, and workplace culture, you can tailor your responses to show that you are not only qualified but also a good fit for the company.
Start by exploring the company’s website, paying close attention to their mission statement, corporate values, and any diversity and inclusion initiatives. Check their social media pages and recent news to stay up-to-date with the company's latest achievements and goals. Employee reviews on sites like Glassdoor can also provide insight into the work culture from the inside.
During the interview, demonstrate how your personal values align with the company’s. For example, if they champion sustainability, share examples of how you’ve contributed to environmental initiatives. Showing this alignment can give you a competitive edge and reassure the interviewer that you’ll thrive within their team.
2. Address gender bias confidently
Unfortunately, gender bias still exists in many industries. While the workplace is slowly becoming more equal, women may still encounter stereotypes during interviews, such as assumptions about career ambitions or work-life balance. The key is to address such biases with confidence.
If you sense that gender bias is at play, or if a question subtly leans into stereotypes, take the opportunity to dispel these misconceptions. Emphasise your skills, dedication, and ambition. For example, if you’re asked how you would manage a demanding role alongside other commitments, reframe the conversation by focusing on your time management skills and previous successes in handling high-pressure situations.
Being prepared to discuss leadership roles or success in male-dominated environments can also help combat bias. Show that you are every bit as capable as anyone else in the room, and don’t hesitate to share examples where you’ve defied traditional expectations.
3. Be assertive about your achievements – Don’t undersell yourself
Many women fall into the trap of underselling themselves during interviews. Cultural conditioning may encourage modesty, but job interviews are the time to confidently promote your skills and achievements. If you’ve accomplished something significant, now is the time to talk about it.
Be assertive and specific about your successes. Use action verbs such as “I led,” “I achieved,” and “I delivered” when describing your role in projects. Employers want to hear about concrete outcomes, so don’t shy away from discussing measurable results, whether that’s increasing sales, improving processes, or delivering successful campaigns.
Remember, being proud of your accomplishments doesn’t make you boastful – it makes you a strong candidate.
4. Negotiate your salary – Do your research
One area where many women hesitate is in negotiating their salary. Research has shown that women are less likely to negotiate than men, yet those who do often receive higher offers. Understanding your market value and being prepared to discuss it is essential.
Before the interview, research average salaries for the role you’re applying for. Websites like Glassdoor, LinkedIn Salary, and industry-specific reports can give you a good idea of what others in similar positions are earning. This information will provide you with a benchmark, so you’re ready to negotiate confidently if the topic of salary arises.
When negotiating, frame your request around your skills and market value, rather than personal needs. For instance, you could say, “Based on my research and the skills I bring to this role, I believe a salary within the range of £X to £Y would be appropriate.”
5. Combat imposter syndrome
Imposter syndrome is a phenomenon many women experience, particularly at the beginning of their careers. It’s that nagging feeling that you don’t truly deserve your success, or that you’re not as competent as others perceive you to be. This can lead to self-doubt, especially in interviews where you’re already under pressure.
The first step in overcoming imposter syndrome is recognising it. Remind yourself that you’ve earned the opportunity to be interviewed. Focus on the facts: your qualifications, your skills, and your achievements. You didn’t get this far by accident.
Prepare yourself mentally before the interview with positive affirmations. Visualise yourself succeeding in the interview, and practice speaking confidently about your skills. By keeping your focus on the evidence of your abilities, you’ll reduce self-doubt and project confidence.
Interviews can be challenging, especially for women navigating a workplace where gender bias and self-doubt may still linger. However, by thoroughly researching the company, confidently addressing biases, being assertive about your achievements, negotiating your worth, and overcoming imposter syndrome, you can put your best foot forward and excel in any interview setting.
Remember, you’ve worked hard to get where you are, and you deserve every opportunity for success. Be proud of your accomplishments, prepare thoroughly, and approach each interview as a chance to showcase your unique value. Your dream job is within reach – now go and get it!
