graduated in 2013 with a 'niche' degree - dream job comes up

[boggedoff]

I did my degree in 2013 a random sort of strange degree that doesn't exist anymore in a childcare discipline.

Now my dream job has been advertised but I have zero confidence in applying for it. I know I can write a good application but will be crap at the interview, plus I am nearing 50 and they probably want a younger person.

How can I find my confidence to get and shine at the interview? I really need this job. I went for a similar one half way thorough my degree and was told I wasn't experienced enough!

I think with confidence it's just a 'fake it till you make it' situation.

Put into perspective: If you don't apply/go to the interview your chances of getting the job is zero. If you apply and go your chances are significantly higher, even if the interview doesn't go well. Basically, you've nothing to lose and everything to gain.

The key to doing well at an interview if you are nervous is preparation. Research the type of questions they might ask and practise answers. Get someone to help you if you can. Find out where it will be and visit the day before so you don't get lost/panic about where it will be. Get their early. Plan what to wear so there is no panic on the day.

There is absolutely nothing you can do about your age so don't bother worrying about that. Think of how you can turn it to your advantage (mature, experienced etc.)

Good advice here from nuffsaidsam I would echo all of this -review the job description, try to pull out possible questions that should be based around it then get someone else to ask you the questions so you can practice your answers. Be positive-you can do this!

I'm having a somewhat similar experience at the moment. Although the job I'm going for is something new to me and I wouldn't necessarily say it was my "dream" job, but the more I research it, the more want it, badly!

It's come to the point now where I have no choice but to fight for it, it's like I've been backed into a corner and there's only one way to get out of it, and that's to face the fact that for the duration of my interview, I'm going to be well out of my comfort zone and am just going to have to suck it up and show them how much I want it.

You may also have to consider this approach. If it is your dream job, go for it. Show them why you'd be better than the younger candidates with your life experience and desire. Give them every reason you can think of to hire you - what do you have to lose? If you feel this might be your last chance, treat it as such and give it a red hot go.

Best of luck. :)

thank you for the advice. Will really research and practice. lots of good advice on here :) Jamietee do you have an interview for the job?

Most important advice is this : Read the job description and tailor your cv to it, at least matching the qualities they are asking for as your key strengths and experience (if that's the degree rather than work experience make sure it is highlighted).

Research the company throughly. Know where they are, what they do, how long they have been operating for.

The fact you are in your 50s might well go for you as against you as (sadly) the perception of some employers might be that you're past childbearing age and also toddlers, so you will be more free and able to get stuck in mentally and physically.

If it comes to interview, post back as o have loads of tips and experience on how to present so you are a match.

Have you found the role through a recruitment agency or is it directly advertised?

Oh and in the meantime whilst you are waiting for application questions, get a book called "good answers to tough interview questions", or similar. That will be very helpful preparation to anyone going through interview.

Application feedback!

Boggedoff, this is your dream job. Of course you can do it. You want it.
Put one big effort into your application and sock it to them.
And come back to tell us you got it.

That's an order.