Banish interview nerves: a four-step plan
You just got the call you’ve been waiting for – you’ve been invited to that interview! After the initial excitement wears off, you begin to feel waves of dread encompass you. Sound familiar? You aren’t alone. Follow our plan to reduce nerves and nail that interview.
1. After the interview confirmation:
- If possible, try to schedule your interview as early in the morning as possible. This will stop you becoming too anxious throughout the day.
- Jot down all the questions the interviewer is likely to ask, including the ones you dread most. Answer using the STAR method and get a trusted friend to quiz you in a mock interview situation.
- And finally… remember they called you and arranged an interview because they like your application and see you as a candidate they could hire. You’ve got this!
2. The night before:
- Be prepared – iron and prepare your outfit, pack your bag and print out copies of your CV and application letter. This is always handy to look at if you get stuck on a question or if the interviewer has misplaced your CV!
- Practice some relaxation techniques to help you get a good night’s sleep. If you still cannot sleep, pop on your favourite feel good movie or TV show, and don’t forget to set your alarm!
3. Morning:
- Don’t skip breakfast, you don’t want your stomach rumbling throughout the interview!
- Avoid caffeine as it will intensify your nerves and make you jumpy. If you must get your fix have a cup of tea instead of coffee.
- Allow yourself plenty of time to travel, so you can park your car, make sure you look presentable, and contain your nerves.
4. At the interview:
- If nerves are getting the better of you, try the 3/3/3 technique. Breathe in slowly through your nose for a count of three and exhale through your nose again for a count of three. Repeat this three times to regulate breathing and slow your heart rate.
- Fake it till you make it – Even if you are nervous, give a firm handshake, remember to look your interviewer in the eye, and sit up straight in your chair. Acting confident will make you help you feel less nervous.
A final note, don’t worry – think of the interview as a meeting, you are there to see if you like the company as much as they are to see if they like you!
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If you liked this article you may like to read – Five things to do after the job interview
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