September 21st, 2022
5 Tips to Overcome Interview Anxiety
Landing a job interview is a great feeling! Finally, you’re one step closer to getting your dream job. The stakes are high, and you already imagine yourself living a better life. That said, you’re now thinking about the interview anxiety that will set in the day of the interview.
Even though you’re qualified, you can’t stop being anxious. The truth is, you have to contain your interview anxiety to perform well. Otherwise, you could mess up and kiss your job opportunity goodbye.
How do you stand out as the best in a job interview? Here are some practical steps to beat interview anxiety and land your dream job!
1. Research the Company
The key to overcoming job interview anxiety is knowledge. You need to know what the company does and what the organization’ wants from you. Researching the company is the best way to get that knowledge. Go to their website and learn as much as you can.
Knowledge gives you confidence. You might have all manner of qualifications, but how do you present them if you lack confidence? Moreover, an in-depth understanding of the company sends a positive message. It shows you’re so interested in the post that you took steps to learn more about the employer.
2. Anticipate the Interview Questions
If you were the hiring manager, what questions would you ask the interviewee? Note the questions down and look for answers. Some questions are somewhat familiar in almost all interviews. Of course, the interviewer will need an introduction from you and a brief history of your work history. In addition, they’ll want to know about your personality and how others perceive you.
A fair number of questions shouldn’t surprise you. The best you can do is get better answers to those questions instead of answering them the way everyone does. After all, being unique can give you an upper hand. Equipped with the right answers, the interview anxiety won’t throw you off your game.
3. Rehearse the Interview
Adequate preparation never disappoints. It’s a great way to deal with a stressful situation. Once you have the anticipated interview questions, request a friend to ask you the question. It helps to hear yourself answering them out loud. Not only will they stick to your mind, but you’ll also pinpoint mistakes you make when answering them.
Finding someone with a similar position as the one you’re seeking to be your interview coach is a great idea. They have probably gone through the same process, making them qualified to give you interview training.
4. See the Interviewer as Your “Friend”
An interviewer isn’t an army commander who deliberately spreads fear! Change the negative thoughts people have about interviews. In reality, a hiring manager wants to know you better. You might be surprised to learn that the panel is on your side, not against you. Picture the interviewer or panel members as your friends and help them know you better.
Remember, the hiring manager already likes you. That’s why you made it to the interview. Being friendly can help relax interview nerves.
5. Practice Calming Techniques
Even with the best preparation, nervousness can creep in unexpectedly. Your blood pressure may start to rise with your hands getting sweaty. If this happens, don’t give up yet. There’s a lot you can do to stay calm. Try guided meditation before heading for the interview.
Some candidates use a pep talk where they constantly remind themselves, “I can do this! I’m the best!” Others find comfort in a breathing exercise. Deep breathing or taking a walk before finding your way into the interview room can help you relax.
Once you’re in the room, try to act natural. Keep in mind you may not be 100% calm, but your power pose and body language can say otherwise. Use your nervous energy positively. The interviewer knows this isn’t the most comfortable place for a job candidate. So, they may help you calm down with small talk.
Get Your Dream Job by Beating Interview Anxiety
Getting an invitation to a job interview might be easy. The hard part is passing it. Truthfully, you’ll need more than luck to pass a job interview. If you implement the five practical actions above, you’ll be a step ahead in getting your dream job.
Do you need help finding a job? Working with a staffing agency can make it easier for you. PrideStaff is an employment agency in Fort Lauderdale specializing in administrative, clerical, and call center staffing. Our staffing company helps connect qualified job seekers to potential employers. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a free consultation.