Is there anyone out there who actually enjoys attending job interviews? If you’re like the vast majority of people, interviewing for a job is probably low on your list of fun activities. But knowing you’re not alone in your fears doesn’t necessarily remove the anxiety itself. What can help is taking the right steps to alleviate your nerves and present yourself at your best. If you’re a job candidate who experiences anxiety during job interviews, the following pointers may make a positive difference:
Remember, the interviewers are nervous, too
It may be a cliché, but the truth of the matter is, the individual(s) conducting your interview is/are likely a bit anxious, too. The interview situation is unfamiliar and naturally creates tension. While both parties are keen on a favourable outcome, this places extra pressure on the meeting and can result in nervous feelings for both interviewer and interviewee.
For you, the interviewee, this can be a helpful notion, because it reminds you that you’re sharing the burden. It also serves as a reminder that you are interviewing the company right back. Is this a place you want to work? Look at your interview as an opportunity to delve deeper into the people and company with which you may be employed. Focus your energy towards these thoughts, and it can help calm you before and during the interview—and help you be more receptive during the meeting.
Preparation as stress relief
Are you the type of person who panics last minute? Interview stress can be alleviated by preparing thoroughly before the event.
Physical prep: Spend time selecting the ideal interview outfit a few days before. This can help you enter the space feeling confident and at your very best. Also, drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your interview (but avoid drinking excessively just before). This hydration will help your body function in top form and ensure your mind is clear and energised.
Intellectual prep: Write down the possible questions the interviewer will have for you and write down your responses. The simple act of putting pen to paper can help you feel secure that you’re prepared and ready with your ideas. It’s also a great idea to spend time researching the company with which you’re interviewing. This helps you anticipate any of their questions as well as assists you to better formulate responses that match their company goals/needs.
Think of every interview as practice (and as a skills-building exercise)
To help ease the high-stakes you might believe an interview represents, start approaching every single interview as a practice session. In truth, every time you go to an interview, you’re building your communication and interview skills and growing increasingly comfortable and accustomed to the interview process. By the time you’ve gone on dozens of interviews, you’re practically a pro. Keeping this in mind during your interview ensures you’re making the most of the opportunity, and working towards a better job future, no matter the outcome of this exact meeting.
Have a few go-to stress relief techniques
The tips above are good practices for your overall interview mindset, but what if you’re still experiencing interview anxiety? In this instance, it’s wise to have a couple of stress-reduction techniques that can serve as your “go-to” methods. Visualisation, deep breathing, or counting techniques are among those that are popular, easy ways to soothe nerves instantly. Best of all, these can be done in the moment. Once you’ve identified what works for you in spikes of stress, you can replicate it in just a few simple moments. Here are a few more stress relief ideas you can check out, to find the one which works for you.
Let us help partner you with the best interview possibilities out there. On Line Recruitment and Labour Hire offer excellent services for jobseekers, and all are completely free of charge. Get in touch and let’s get started.
