Positive Thinking in Interviews: Does It Work?

Does positive thinking in interviews always land you the job? Well, no. But there is an advantage to putting your brain into “seeing things work out well” mode. And it’s not just about magical thinking.

What about worst case thinking?

A lot of people brace themselves for possible rejection. And so that’s where they focus their interview prep. “I’ll do my best, but what if I don’t get it? How will I  ____.” (Fill in the blank.)

But when you do that, you’re already spending your pre-interview prep time on the negative side of things. Not that you need to be Pollyanna and refuse to even consider that you won’t get the job, but it’s not to your advantage to do this.

Time and mental energy are much better spent seeing yourself getting the job … and thinking about how to get yourself there. Even before the actual interview(s).

Pros of positive thinking in interviews

So even though “magical thinking” isn’t exactly what I’m talking about, there are definite benefits to putting your brain into a positive “I am the right person for this job / company” and “I can definitely get this job” mode.  Some whys:

• Spending more time in the positive side of things while you prepare actually shows on you during the interview itself. It’s hard to suddenly switch it on, as much as many candidates think they can. Doubts show.
• Positive thinking during interviews helps you tackle questions from “how can I connect me to the job in their mind” mode rather than “uh oh this is my downfall.”
• Also, seeing yourself all along the way in the job — picturing it as clearly as if you had a photo of it with you smiling — helps you truly believe you are right for the job. Leave the doubts about yourself and abilities behind … you can always decide it’s not for you later on!

Is there a downside?

Yes … there can be. If you tell yourself that positive thinking alone is going to land you the job, you’re not giving yourself the best chance of success. And to get a job you need to go beyond mere thoughts.

So what else do you need?

While you do need to prepare yourself mentally, you also need to do solid research. And know your resume well … plus practice practice practice. That will do you a lot more good than mere positive thoughts … although adding them to the mix is smart interview technique!

Actions also matter. You need to make sure that everything you do from the first contact to the last follow-up email shows you at your best. Impressions last and can make a big difference.

One other good place to start is by looking at any longstanding mental roadblocks to success you might be setting up. Positive thinking alone isn’t going to overcome that — although certainly an important interview tool.

⇒  EXTRA:  Are Obstacle Illusions Keeping You From a Better Job?

 

More posts to help your interview

How To Mentally Prepare for a Job Interview

12 Things You Need To Know BEFORE a Job Interview

Job Interview Nerves? Tips for Before, During & After

 

18 Practical Tips to Help You Ace Your Job Interview

15 Things I Look for When I Interview People

5 Interview Skills To Help Connect the “Hire Me” Dots