Job Interview Confidence: 6 Mental Health & Wellbeing Tips

Job interviews can be exciting opportunities for career advancement—but they also often bring feelings of anxiety, self-doubt, and pressure to perform. Whether you're stepping into the job market for the first time or applying for your dream role, it's important to approach interviews with clarity, preparation, and a strong sense of self.

At UMO, we support individuals through every stage of their career journey, including building confidence and resilience for challenges like job interviews.

Here are six practical, mental health-informed tips to help you manage your nerves and do your best during a job interview:

1. Preparation is Key

The more you know, the more confident you’ll feel. Research the company’s mission, culture, and values. Understand the job description and reflect on how your experience aligns with the role. Preparation demonstrates interest, initiative, and helps you answer questions with clarity and enthusiasm.

2. Practice Without Over-Rehearsing

Practise responses to common questions like "What are your strengths?" or "Why do you want this role?". Use a mirror or ask a friend to help—but avoid memorising answers word-for-word. The goal is to feel comfortable and sound natural, not robotic.

3. Be Aware of Body Language

Non-verbal cues matter. Sit with good posture, make appropriate eye contact, and avoid distracting habits like fidgeting. Calm and open body language helps project confidence, even if you're feeling nervous inside.

4. Show Genuine Interest and Curiosity

Interviews go both ways. You’re assessing the company too. Asking thoughtful questions shows you’re proactive, engaged, and invested in the opportunity. It also helps you evaluate whether the role suits your values and goals.

5. Manage Stress and Nerves

Feeling nervous is completely normal. Use grounding strategies before the interview—try deep breathing, positive affirmations, or journalling. UMO offers emotional wellbeing support designed to help you manage stress during work transitions. Remind yourself that every interview is a learning opportunity. You don’t have to be perfect—just authentic.

6. Dress with Confidence

Choose an outfit that fits the company culture but errs slightly on the side of professional. You want to feel comfortable and confident. A clean, tidy outfit you feel good in can help reduce nerves and boost presence.

Final Thoughts

Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but they’re also a space for you to shine. The most important thing is to be prepared, be yourself, and stay open to learning through the process. Confidence grows with experience—so celebrate every step forward!

And remember: your interviewer wants you to succeed. This is a conversation, not a test.

Good luck—you’ve got this! 🫶🏼

Want more support?

If you’re looking for personalised guidance, get in touch with UMO—we’re here to help you prepare, thrive and move forward with confidence.

• UCAS – How to Prepare for an Interview
• National Careers Service – Interview Advice
• National Careers Service – Careers Advice
• UCAS – Careers Advice Hub

#JobAdvice #InterviewAdvice #YoungPeople #MentalHealthAwareness #HealthAndWellbeing