Today I want to talk about interviews because they’re a critical part of any accounting career, whether you’re just starting out or looking to move up the ladder. If you’re an entrepreneur in the accounting field, interviews are just as crucial for hiring the right people to grow your business.

But let’s be honest—most accountants would much rather talk about numbers than themselves. Discussing your skills, experiences, and why you’re the right fit for a job can feel awkward and challenging.

It’s not always easy to know what to say, how to act, or how to handle those nerve-wracking moments during an interview. When you walk into an interview, whether you’re asking the questions or answering them, there’s always that feeling of being evaluated.

As an interviewee, you’re being sized up by a potential employer to see if you fit their needs. But remember—it’s a two-way street.  You should be evaluating them just as much to ensure the job and company are the right fit for you. 

In today’s tech-driven world, you might think that virtual interviews would make things easier.

After all, you can do them from the comfort of your home, and there’s less hassle compared to traveling to an office. However, virtual interviews come with their own set of challenges.

There’s a layer of awkwardness and disconnection that’s hard to ignore. Without the ability to shake hands and sit across from someone in person, it’s tougher to gauge reactions and build a genuine connection.

This can make the whole process feel more overwhelming for everyone involved. The convenience of virtual interviews has expanded the pool of applicants and job opportunities, which is great.

But it also means more competition and, often, more stress. You might feel the pressure of standing out among a larger group of applicants.

The lack of face-to-face interaction can make it harder to make a memorable impression. 

But, what’s really key in navigating interviews successfully, whether virtual or in-person, is self-confidence and self-awareness.

It’s not just about having a polished resume or knowing the right answers to common interview questions. It’s about understanding yourself—your strengths, your weaknesses, and how to present yourself in the best light.

This self-awareness helps you manage your thoughts and emotions during the interview, allowing you to stay calm and focused. When you’re confident and self-aware, you can better understand the interviewer’s perspective as well.

You’ll be able to connect with them more effectively, showing that you’re not just another candidate, but the right candidate. Remember, interviews are as much about showcasing your professional skills as they are about demonstrating your ability to connect with others and handle stressful situations with grace.

In the end, nailing a job interview is about more than just your resume, technical knowledge or experience. It’s about how well you know yourself and how effectively you can communicate that knowledge.

Whether you’re aiming for a new job, a promotion, or trying to hire the best people for your team, mastering the art of interviews can make all the difference in your accounting career.

Your Brain’s Role In The Interview Process

Let’s dive into what really goes on during an interview. First things first—self-awareness and managing your thoughts are game-changers.

You might not realize it, but what you’re thinking before, during, and even after an interview can significantly impact your performance. Imagine you’re about to walk into an interview, and you’re thinking, “I’m not good enough” or “Everyone else has more experience than me.”

Those thoughts can lead to feelings of doubt and insecurity, which can show up in how you present yourself. It’s normal to have a whirlwind of thoughts and fears before an interview.

Maybe you’re worried about coming off as too needy or too arrogant. Maybe you’re scared of freezing up and not knowing how to answer a question.

Perhaps you’re anxious about whether you’re truly qualified for the job. These are all common pre-interview thoughts that many people experience.

These thoughts don’t just stay in your head—they influence how you behave during the interview. If you’re feeling doubtful or insecure, you might come across as timid or unsure of yourself.

You might struggle to articulate your answers or fail to highlight your strengths effectively. On the flip side, if you go into an interview with a positive mindset, believing in your abilities and feeling confident, you’re more likely to communicate clearly and make a strong impression.

This is why preparation is so important, and not just the kind that involves rehearsing answers or researching the company. Preparing mentally and emotionally is just as crucial.

It’s about understanding your thoughts and managing them in a way that boosts your confidence and helps you stay calm and focused. It’s also important to understand that your brain plays a huge role in this process.

When you’re anxious or stressed, your brain releases stress hormones like cortisol, which can affect your ability to think clearly and respond effectively. When you’re confident and relaxed, your brain is in a better state to access your knowledge and skills.

Managing your thoughts and emotions helps keep your brain in the optimal state for performing well during the interview. You can have the most polished resume and know the answers to all the typical interview questions, but if you’re filled with self-doubt and negative thoughts, it’s going to be hard to shine.

Preparation beyond the resume means getting to know yourself better and learning how to manage your thoughts and emotions effectively. This deeper level of preparation can help you walk into an interview with the confidence and self-assurance needed to truly stand out.

As you prepare for your next interview, take some time to reflect on your thoughts and feelings. Identify any negative or unhelpful thoughts and work on reframing them in a more positive light.

Remember, the way you think and feel about yourself can significantly impact how you perform in an interview. By managing your thoughts and being self-aware, you can improve your chances of success and make a lasting impression on your potential employer.

Understanding how your brain works can give you an edge. Knowing that your brain responds to your thoughts and feelings means you can train it to be your ally.

The interview process is not just about showcasing your skills and experience. It’s about presenting the best version of yourself, which starts with how you manage your mind. 

A Better Type of Interview Prep

Preparing for an interview isn’t just about brushing up your resume and practicing answers to common questions. A crucial part of preparation involves getting your mind in the right place. 

Let’s talk about identifying and acknowledging those pre-interview thoughts that can either set you up for success or trip you up before you even walk in the door (or log in, for virtual interviews).

First, you need to identify those pre-interview thoughts. What’s running through your mind as you gear up for the big day? Maybe you’re thinking, “I’m afraid I’m going to blow it,” “Everyone else has more experience than me,” or “I don’t like how I sound in interviews.” 

These thoughts are completely normal. Almost everyone experiences some level of anxiety before an interview. But here’s the catch—what you think directly affects how you feel and, ultimately, how you behave during the interview.

Let’s take an example thought: “I’m worried that they won’t think I’m qualified enough.” This thought can lead to feelings of doubt and insecurity. When you’re feeling doubtful, you might come across as timid or unsure of yourself. 

You might fidget, struggle to make eye contact, or have trouble articulating your thoughts. These behaviors can reinforce the interviewer’s perception that you’re not confident or prepared, creating a self-fulfilling prophecy.

This example shows the power of a single thought on your interview behavior. It’s amazing how one negative thought can spiral into a series of actions that don’t reflect your true capabilities. 

On the flip side, imagine if your thought was, “I have valuable experience and skills to offer.” This thought can lead to feelings of confidence and assurance. You’d likely walk into the interview with your head held high, make strong eye contact, and articulate your answers clearly, showcasing your best self.

So, how do you manage and reframe those pre-interview thoughts to set yourself up for success? Here are some strategies:

Acknowledge Your Thoughts: The first step is to simply notice what you’re thinking. Don’t try to push away negative thoughts or pretend they don’t exist. Acknowledge them. Write them down if it helps to see them on paper.

Question Your Thoughts: Once you’ve identified your thoughts, question their validity. Are they based on facts or assumptions? For instance, if you’re thinking, “Everyone else has more experience than me,” ask yourself, “Do I know this for sure?” Often, you’ll find that these thoughts are based on fears rather than facts.

Reframe Negative Thoughts: Replace negative thoughts with more positive, realistic ones. If you’re thinking, “I’m afraid I’ll blow it,” reframe it to, “I’ve prepared for this, and I’m ready to do my best.” Focus on your strengths and past successes to boost your confidence.

Visualization Techniques: Athletes do this all the time; visualizing themselves succeeding in whatever they’re asked to do.  Visualize yourself succeeding in the interview. Imagine walking in confidently, answering questions clearly, and connecting well with the interviewer. Visualization can help reduce anxiety and build a positive mental image of the interview.

Mindfulness and Relaxation: Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or even a quick walk can help calm your mind and reduce stress. When your mind is calm, it’s easier to manage your thoughts and stay focused.

By taking the time to identify, acknowledge, and reframe your pre-interview thoughts, you can create a more positive and confident mindset. Remember, how you think influences how you feel, and how you feel influences how you act. 

Preparing mentally and emotionally is just as important as preparing your resume and practicing your answers. With the right mindset, you can walk into any interview ready to showcase your best self.

Managing Self-Doubt and Imposter Syndrome

Let’s talk about something many of us face but don’t often discuss—self-doubt and imposter syndrome. Have you ever felt like you don’t belong, like you’re just waiting for someone to figure out you’re not as capable as they think? That’s imposter syndrome, and it’s more common than you might think, especially for accountants.

Imposter syndrome is the belief that you’re out of your league, that you’re not good enough, and that you’re only in your current position because you got lucky. It’s that nagging feeling that sooner or later, everyone will realize you’re a fraud. Sounds harsh, right? 

But the truth is, an estimated 70% of people have experienced imposter syndrome at some point in their lives. For accountants, who are often expected to have it all together, we can get hit with this feeling more often than we’d like.

In fact, studies have shown that imposter syndrome is higher among professionals in high-achieving fields, including accounting. The constant need for accuracy, the pressure to perform, and the competitive nature of the industry can contribute to these feelings of inadequacy. 

Unfortunately, even when you’ve got the credentials, the experience, and the skills, self-doubt can still creep in, making you question your worth and capabilities.

But when it comes to nailing that job interview, overcoming imposter syndrome, especially before, during, and after interviews, is crucial for showcasing your true abilities and potential. 

If you struggle with self-doubt or imposter syndrome, here’s how you can tackle it:

Recognize It: The first step to overcoming imposter syndrome is recognizing it. Acknowledge that those feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy are part of imposter syndrome. Once you name it, you can start to deal with it.

Understand Your Achievements: Take a step back and look at your accomplishments. Write them down if it helps. You’ve earned your place through hard work, dedication, and skill—not luck. Remind yourself of your successes and the effort you’ve put in to get where you are.

Challenge Negative Thoughts: Just like with pre-interview thoughts, challenge the negative thoughts that feed into imposter syndrome. Ask yourself if there’s concrete evidence for these thoughts or if they’re just fears and assumptions.

Talk About It: You’re not alone in feeling this way. Talking about your experiences with friends, mentors, or colleagues can help. Often, you’ll find that others have felt the same way and can offer support and perspective.

Prepare Mentally: Before an interview, take time to mentally prepare. Practice mindfulness, use positive affirmations, and visualize your success. Remind yourself of your qualifications and why you deserve to be there.

During the Interview: During the interview, stay focused on your strengths and what you bring to the table. If self-doubt starts to creep in, take a deep breath and refocus on your positive attributes. Remember, the interviewer is interested in you for a reason.

After the Interview: After the interview, don’t let imposter syndrome take over. Reflect on what went well and what you can improve, but don’t dwell on perceived mistakes. Use constructive feedback to grow, not to undermine your confidence.

Bottom line: Managing self-doubt and imposter syndrome is an ongoing process, but with awareness and the right strategies, you can keep it in check. By recognizing your value, challenging negative thoughts, and preparing mentally, you can present your best self during this and future interviews. 

My Secret Weapon – Managing The Interviewer’s Mind

I’ve talked a lot about your brain’s role in the interview process and managing your mind, but my secret weapon for nailing that job interview is understanding how to manage the interviewer’s mind.

When it comes to interviews, we often get so caught up in our own thoughts and nerves that we start making assumptions about what the interviewer is thinking. Unfortunately, these assumptions are rarely positive. 

For example, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking, “They probably think I’m not experienced enough,” or “They don’t seem interested in what I’m saying.” These negative assumptions can quickly spiral, creating unnecessary stress and self-doubt that can impact your performance.

However, just as you can manage your own thoughts, you can also manage your assumptions about the interviewer’s thoughts. Here are some strategies to help you reframe those assumptions positively:

Choose Positive Assumptions: Instead of assuming the worst, make a conscious decision to assume the best. For example, instead of thinking, “They probably think I’m not experienced enough,” reframe it to, “The interviewer is interested in learning more about me.” 

If you catch yourself thinking, “They don’t seem interested,” change it to, “They see potential in me, which is why I’m here.” Positive assumptions can help reduce anxiety and boost your confidence, allowing you to perform at your best.

Focus on Connection: Think of the interview as a two-way conversation where both parties are trying to find a good fit. The interviewer isn’t just looking to trip you up; they want to find the right person for the job. 

Assume the interviewer wants you to succeed and is looking for reasons to hire you, not to reject you. This mindset helps you relax and engage more naturally in the conversation, making it easier to connect and showcase your abilities.

So what would be the impact of these positive assumptions on your interview performance?  Why is this so important?

Because when you assume the interviewer is on your side, you’ll naturally feel more relaxed and confident. This positive mindset allows you to connect better with the interviewer, showcase your skills effectively, and handle questions with ease.

For example, if you believe the interviewer is genuinely interested in what you have to say, you’re more likely to speak with enthusiasm and clarity. You’ll be more focused on sharing your experiences and strengths rather than worrying about being judged. This approach not only helps you perform better but also makes the interview more enjoyable and less stressful.

Remember, your thoughts shape your reality. By managing both your own mind and your assumptions about the interviewer’s mind, you create a more positive and productive interview experience. 

You will be amazed at how this shift in perspective can make a significant difference in how you present yourself and how you’re perceived by the interviewer.  The truth is that when you manage your mind effectively, you’re not just saying the right things—you’re thinking and feeling in a way that truly supports your success.

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: Nailing That Job Interview

It’s not easy to put yourself out there during the job search process, but just know that although it feels awkward, it can be a lot easier when you learn and implement what I’ve shared.

For example, one of my coaching clients was an accountant with impressive qualifications but a lack of confidence. She had decided to leave the firm she had been with, had gone on a few interviews, but knew they didn’t go as well as she’d like.

Before her next major job interview, she was consumed with self-doubt, thinking, “I’m not good enough,” and “They’ll see through me.” 

She knew her resume was stellar so we instead focused on managing her mind. We got clear on what her Toddler, negatively-biased brain was thinking and then worked on reframing those negative thoughts.

By replacing “I’m not good enough” with “I have valuable skills and experience” she was much more calm and confident.  We worked together on getting her brain to see that any employer would be lucky to have her.

At her next interview, the difference was clear. She walked in with confidence, spoke clearly, and effectively highlighted her strengths. 

Her positive mindset and calm demeanor impressed the interviewers, and she landed the job. She shared with me that managing her thoughts and emotions made all the difference in presenting her best self.

So hopefully you can see that you can have the most impressive resume possible, but learning how to manage your mind is your secret weapon.  It affects how you feel, what you do or don’t do, and how other people experience you.

Key Takeaway and Action Item

The key takeaway from today is that self-awareness and mental preparation are crucial for nailing job interviews. Managing your thoughts and emotions, understanding your strengths and weaknesses, and maintaining a positive mindset can significantly impact your performance and help you present your best self during an interview.

Your resume is important, but the mindset you bring before, during and after an interview is even more crucial.

For this week, ask yourself, “What negative or unhelpful thoughts do I have about my upcoming interview, and how can I reframe them into positive, confidence-boosting thoughts?”

Well, that’s what I have for you.  Thank you for joining me as I discussed nailing that job interview.  I hope you’ve gained valuable insights and practical tools.

As I share all the time, you worked hard to become an accountant; it’s time to make it easier to be one.

If you are struggling with any aspect of being an accountant, you can simply go to www.thesmarteraccountant.com/calendar and book a free session with me.

And make sure you check back each week as I help you go from being a stressed accountant to a Smarter Accountant.

Make sure you go to www.thesmarteraccountant.com and take The Smarter Accountant Quiz. You’re going to want to know if you’ve been underutilizing your accountant brain so that you have a starting point for becoming a Smarter Accountant..

Also, I would appreciate it if you could get the word out to other accountants about this podcast.  The more accountants find out about it, the more we can begin to change the narrative in the accounting profession.

The truth is that you’re already smart, but this podcast will show you how to be smarter.