10 ways to get into a positive mindset before a remote interview

Interview nerves are natural. Remote interviews have an added element of complexity: “I’ve never had a video job interview before, it’ll probably go wrong.” “What if my Wi-Fi signal drops, or there’s a problem with the connection

Did you know that 80% of all the thoughts we have are negative? Yes, 80% of the 12,000-16,000 thoughts we have every day are negative. It’s also likely that this percentage will rise if we feel pressure to perform. But positivity affects everything we do. Here’s how focusing on positive thoughts can maximise your interview potential. 

The importance of adopting a positive mindset before an interview 

If you have a remote job interview coming up you may be feeling unsettled. Remote interviews bring a new set of hurdles. You may worry that you will struggle with technical issues. These additional factors can further confound natural pre-interview nerves or concerns. 

Try to stay focused on the job at hand. You must do everything you can to approach your interview with a constructive and positive mindset. 

Adopting a positive frame of mind will enable you to perform at your very best. A positive mindset will also help you feel more confident. Once you feel positive, you can really sell yourself and your skills to the interviewer. 

How to get into the right frame of mind before a job interview 

1. Shift your focus to prevent self-limiting thoughts 

If you experience self-limiting thoughts, the chances are that your brain will start to believe them. You might not even realise that you carry self-limiting beliefs. Check your language for phrases like “that’s impossible” or “I can’t”. 

Reframe the way you think and try to appreciate how far you’ve come in your career. You’re already attending an interview, which is something to feel good about. Avoid telling yourself that you won’t come across as well via video. Instead, think of your interview as having a conversation with someone in person. 

2. Combat imposter syndrome with positive thoughts

Many people suffer from something called imposter syndrome. This feeling is “an internal experience of believing that you are not as competent as others perceive you to be”. Imposter syndrome can make you feel like you’re not good enough for an interview.  

Tell yourself that your success is down to your own competence and effort, not luck. 

Elizabeth Cox, for TED-Ed explains: “There’s no easy way to dismiss feelings that we’re less capable than the people around us. Once you’re aware of the phenomenon, you can combat your own imposter syndrome by collecting and revisiting positive feedback.”

3. Be positive and productive, but don’t overthink your interview 

A job interview is an important moment in your life. Interviews can open countless doors for you, especially if the company offers you the job.  

However, thinking too much about the significance of the interview itself could result in an unnecessary amount of pressure. Overthinking can negatively impact your frame of mind during your preparation.  

To maintain a positive mindset before your interview, take a step back. Think about your interview for what it truly is: a conversation with someone about a job you’re interested in. This is nothing more than a chance for you both to get to know each other.  

Try not to get ahead of yourself and overthink the significance of an interview. Keep things in perspective. You may also want to read our advice on calming your interview nerves.

4. Make sure you prepare well for your interview

Thorough preparation isn’t only good for improving your chances of landing a job. Interview prep is also great for your mindset and can help you to relax. Feel confident that you’ve done all you can and whatever happens next is inevitable. 

If you prepare, you’ll feel more confident and your frame of mind is more likely to be positive.

5. Psych yourself up with positive affirmations for more confidence

Academic research demonstrates the value of a positive mindset before an interview. David Tod of Liverpool John Moores University, James Hardy of Bangor University and Emily J Oliver of Durham University reviewed research literature at length. They found that motivational self-talk helps to improve performance.  

To nurture a positive mindset, try to: 

• Start your day by telling yourself a positive morning mantra
• Listen to a particular song that makes you happy
• Ask a friend to give you a ‘pep-talk’
• Remind yourself of all your amazing achievements so far 

Use optimistic language and positive words towards yourself. Assert “I’m looking forward to the interview” or “I’m sure it will go well”. Remind yourself that, if you don’t get the job, something better is going to come along.

6. Approach your interview as an opportunity for growth 

Whether the interview goes the way you want or not, you’re sure to learn something from it. You might even emerge from the interview with a clearer sense of: 

• what you want and don’t want from your career.
• where your present strengths and weaknesses lie. 

Remember: those are great outcomes in themselves. 

Even if you don’t get the job, you’ll gain knowledge and experience. With a positive mindset for your interview, you’ll see the benefits of any setback. Acknowledging the value of experience is key to developing a growth mindset. 

7. Stay positive by speaking to your recruiter and support network

Try to surround yourself with positive people in the run up to your interview. A quick call with a supportive relative or friend can go a long way. Discuss how you’re feeling to support your positive outlook.  

It’s also worth speaking to your recruiter. Recruiters are experts in job interviews and will have a good relationship with the interviewer. Arrange a video call to test your technology. Use this opportunity to dispel any doubts or uncertainties about the role or interview process. 

You might want to ask questions such as: 

• Is this a newly created position?
• What will the structure of the interview be?
• Do you have any tips for a telephone/video interview? 

With additional knowledge you can enter the interview with positivity and confidence.

8. Don’t become too absorbed in your interview preparation

Preparation is important for any job interview. But even when an interview is coming up, you should still take time away from the world of work. Continue with any hobbies and interests that will help you to keep perspective and blow off some steam. 

Nir Eyal, writing for Psychology Today, highlights the many positive benefits that such distractions can have on our lives. Something as simple as a puzzle or video game can be great for boosting our confidence in overcoming problems. 

Other distractions can also strengthen our ability to tackle new challenges. Research has found that spending time walking outside can reduce stress and improve mood and cognitive function.

9. Feel excited about your new opportunity! 

A job interview is a great opportunity to meet new people and open doors to the next exciting step in your career. Now’s the time to think about everything that attracts you to this role. 

Allow yourself to visualise what it will feel like to work in this new role. Getting excited will help you to feel more confident and maintain a positive mindset throughout your preparation.

10. Pick the right outfit for the interview, even if it’s remote

Even if you have a telephone or video interview, it’s important to dress appropriately. Act as if you’re meeting the interviewer face to face. Wearing your best shoes can have a positive impact on your mindset, even if no one else can see them.  

Take some cues from the sector you are looking to work in. If you are interviewing for a role at a relatively conservative company such as a law firm, a smart suit is a safe bet. 

If you’re feeling unsure, ask your recruiter what is most appropriate to wear. They will have a clear understanding of the company and industry. 

The power of a positive mindset in a job interview 

You now have the tools and advice to approach your next interview with a positive and constructive mindset.

With this positive mindset in place, you will be able to enjoy your interview more and portray your authentic self from start to finish. Remind yourself that you’re confident, articulate and fully deserving of this wonderful opportunity.