Dear Coleen

PANICKED ABOUT VIDEO JOB INTERVIEW

I’m a woman aged 32 and I’ve been applying for jobs for a few weeks.

I’m desperate to get back into the market after having my daughter 18 months ago.

However, being out of the office for some time has left me feeling out of the loop and I think my confidence has suffered.

I’ve never been brilliant at interviews – I get quite nervous and forget what I want to say however well prepared I am.

Last week, I got an invitation to do an interview via a video call.

I was so excited to make the shortlist, but I literally go into a panic every time I think about it.

Having no social contact over the past few weeks hasn’t done much for my confidence.

Do you have any advice?

Coleen says

Start by building yourself up and reminding yourself you can do this job and you’ll be good at it.

You might have to switch into a different character – a bit like acting – to do it, but it can have a positive effect. My kids are constantly shocked by how nervous I am the day I do Loose Women from my kitchen.

I wander around the house like an idiot from the moment I get up. I have to remind myself, “I can do this” or it’ll become a real problem. I suffer from Imposter Syndrome really badly, which is where my nerves come from.

But as soon as the programme starts, I’m fine. So part of it is about battling through your nerves. Take the pressure off by thinking: “If I get the job, great, but if I don’t, it means it wasn’t for me and something more suitable will come along.”

Try not to see it as a failure. Be yourself. If it doesn’t work out, keep going. It’s good experience.

Finally, I think a remote interview might work to your advantage as you’ll be in your own comfort zone instead of in a strange office.

And, remember, they’ve given you an interview because they believe you are suitable.