Even for the most confident and extroverted among us, interviews can be nerve-racking. After all, the pressure is on. However, don’t let fear get in the way of opportunity.
Here are four tips to help you stay cool, calm and collected during your next interview.
1. Plan for Success
If you get stuck in traffic, report to the wrong location, and then run into the interview late, breathless and flustered, you will add more anxiety to an already stressful situation. Do as much as you can ahead of time to make your interview day run smoothly.
- Choose your outfit (with back-up clothes ready in case of unexpected spills);
- drive the route, find the exact location and calculate your travel time a few days in advance;
- study the company website to learn more about the individuals who might be interviewing you, the company and the position; and
- depart early on interview day in case of unexpected delays.
2. Practice, Practice, Practice
Do your homework before the interview and research commonly asked interview questions. These should include traditional inquires such as, “Tell me about yourself,” as well as behavioral interview questions such as, “What is your proudest professional accomplishment and how did you reach this goal?” You may choose to write out your answers, rehearse your responses in front of a mirror and/or participate in mock interviews with family or friends. This preparation will not only increase your confidence, it will improve the overall quality of your answers.
3. Accept Your Fear
Rather than fighting off your emotions, recognize it’s OK and completely natural to be nervous. According to a 2015 study, individuals who accepted their anxiety during a simulated job interview performed better than those who tried to bury their fear. (verywellmind, 2018) Also keep in mind, interviewers may ask tough questions to see how you handle stress. Don’t let a single obstacle throw you into panic mode. Take a deep breath and pause before responding to challenging inquiries. Or, simply say, “That’s a great question, let me have a minute to think,” while you regroup.
4. Shift Your Mindset
Interviews are important, but ultimately, they are not a do-or-die situation. There is no need to put unnecessary pressure on yourself to succeed at all costs. After all, you may interview perfectly and still not get the position. Rejection is an unfortunate part of the job-hunting process. Disappointment can be hard to swallow, but eventually new opportunities will appear. Give yourself permission to make mistakes and learn along the way. View each interview as a chance to grow rather than a Pass/Fail event. Celebrate the wins (even the small ones), stay positive and keep focusing on your long-term goals rather than short-term setbacks.
Are your nerves getting the better of you during interviews? The employment specialists at Aventure Staffing would be happy to offer free coaching and advice, so you can ace your next interview and land a great job. Learn more about working with us today!