Navigating Challenging Job Interviews: How to Make a Lasting Impression

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Interviews are undeniably one of the most nerve-wracking experiences an individual can go through, especially if the interviewers are demanding or they ask challenging questions. However, when you have the right mindset and preparation, you can fortunately change these often difficult situations into amazing opportunities, highlighting your incredible strengths and skills, whilst making a lasting impression.

In this article, we share our top 7 tips for effectively navigating difficult job interviews and setting yourself up for success.

1. Research, Research, Research

One of the best ways to effectively prepare for any interview, no matter the difficulty level or industry, is to try and gain as much knowledge and insight as you can about the organisation before you attend. From understanding the values to the most recent accomplishments, having a clear understanding gives you a competitive advantage. Your research will allow you to align your own experiences and qualifications with the needs of the organisation, not only demonstrating your enthusiasm for the role but also allowing you to mould your responses to meet the organisational needs. You can also use platforms such as Career Taster to read real interview questions asked within the industry to be extra prepared.

2. Stay Calm and Composed

It’s easier said than done sometimes to stay calm when you’re in a situation that makes you nervous, but it’s vital to maintain calm, composed and put together during difficult interviews. Being prepared also helps you reduce any levels of nervousness you may have and help you stay composed. When you don’t stay calm, you’re less likely to think and respond as effectively as you should to the challenging questions you may ask. Staying calm also demonstrates you can handle pressure which is a valuable asset, particularly in more senior roles.

3. Practise Effective Communication

Strong communication skills are crucial in all areas of life, both personal and professional. It can be confidently said that this is no exception for job interviews and might even be considered one of the most crucial skills you need to possess if you want to handle challenging interviews. Practising your active listening, maintaining eye contact, using body language and providing concise answers are some of the things you need to be doing. This demonstrates your ability to not only communicate clearly and professionally but that you can do it under pressure.

4. Find a Mentor

If you’re someone who struggles with interviews, whether it’s nailing your introduction or simply they just make you uneasy, then you should consider finding yourself a mentor to prepare yourself for any difficult interviews you might face during your career. Your mentor has likely undergone several interviews within their career and can share their best tips and strategies to help you improve your interview skills whilst providing you with the support and guidance you need to develop on a professional level.

5. Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills

In interviews that are considered more demanding or challenging, there are often problem-solving scenarios that are used to help the interviewer assess your ability to think critically. That’s why it’s essential during interviews to actively demonstrate your problem-solving skills and always be prepared to tackle any challenges you face. Break down the problem, analyse it and explain your thoughts, coming up with a solution. Remember, interviewers often value candidates who are creative in solving more complex problems.

6. Bring a Copy of your CV

When people attend an interview, they often bring a copy of their CV to give to the interviewer, but it’s also a good idea to bring one for yourself. When you have your CV at hand, you can easily refer to it when asked questions by the interviewer. It’s a reminder of your experiences and accomplishments, it’s something that can be extremely useful when you feel under pressure during an interview. Having your CV with you also means that you can explain each part of it if the interviewer refers to it during the interview.

7. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Clarification

Interviewers are only human and they aren’t waiting around to confuse the people they speak with, even in more challenging or demanding interviews. If you encounter a difficult question that confuses you, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. When you seek the additional information needed, you’re committed to truly understanding the questions that people ask you before giving an appropriate response. This further demonstrates your ability to communicate effectively and your willingness to seek clarity.

Final Thoughts

Difficult job interviews and questions often feel intimidating, but remember they are the perfect opportunity to demonstrate resilience and adaptability, two crucial skills all professionals need. By following the steps mentioned above, you will undoubtedly make a positive impression. When you handle difficult situations with confidence, you’re setting yourself apart from the other candidates and ultimately improving your chances of success.