Today I had a 15-minute pre-selection interview for a junior position in a European organization that I really wanted, since it matched perfectly with my background and my current role.

I’m generally a nervous person, so I practiced a lot in order to be fluent during the interview, especially since English is not my first language.

I was awake since 02:30 with 5 hours of sleep, because I had a night shift. The interview took place at 10:30. The first minute I joined was fine, since one of the interviewers greeted me in my native language, which was a nice moment, so I replied back in his language as well.

However, I felt a bit awkward at the beginning because I suddenly saw a panel of 4 people on the call, which I wasn’t fully prepared for, and I was also slightly overwhelmed by the format.

They started by saying that, based on my CV and cover letter, they found my background and skills impressive, and they began by asking why I wanted to work there. I had prepared this question, but while answering I got stuck on a word and panicked. Everything went blank. For about 10–15 seconds I was completely silent. They told me not to be nervous and to take my time and drink some water. I did, and they moved on to the next question, saying we could come back to it later.

The next question was how I could contribute to the role with my skills. I gave an answer that was relevant but not as fluent as I wanted. Then they asked what I think is important for someone working in this role. I answered based on my current role (which is somewhat similar), focusing on teamwork and decision-making under pressure, and they seemed satisfied. I also answered a theoretical question, and they seemed satisfied with that as well.

They continued by asking if I see any gaps in my skills compared to the requirements in the job description. I mentioned a specific technical skill, and then they asked if I had any other skill gaps I would like to mention, and I said no.

They finally came back to the first question, for which I eventually gave a proper answer. At the end, they asked if I had any questions for them. I said that I had noted a few questions, and I asked the first one. One of them answered it, and the other continued by explaining more about the multicultural nature of the organization (probably because I mentioned it as one of the reasons I would like to work there), stating that there is a strong mix of juniors from different countries and backgrounds and that there’s a good environment between them.

Overall, I managed to answer all questions, although not very fluently due to anxiety. The beginning was definitely the most difficult part for me.

Before ending, they informed me that I should expect feedback within about a week, and that if I move to the next stage, I will receive an email with full details and the expected date for the second stage, which would likely be in about a month. Otherwise, I will receive an email confirming that I have not been selected to proceed.

Two hours after the interview, I sent a follow-up email thanking them for their time and the opportunity, and expressing my continued interest in the role and appreciation of the multicultural environment.

What do you think about my chances? From your experience, given that this is a junior position in an operational environment, the fact that at the end they emphasized the multicultural aspect (which I had mentioned as something that motivates me), and the fact that they even outlined the next stage timeline and process, do you think I still have a chance of progressing to the next stage, or is it unlikely?

Honestly, I felt like I performed average to below average due to anxiety, especially at the beginning, so I’m unsure how this is usually interpreted when it comes to junior positions, considering my background and skills.

Forgot to mention that at the end I apologized for the moment when I got stuck, and they said that it was fine and they totally understand.

Would really appreciate an honest perspective on this. Thank you in advance.