It’s perfectly normal to be nervous before a job interview. In fact, interviewers expect it. But if you’re stammering, shaking or sweating throughout the conversation, they may conclude that you don’t perform well under pressure and wouldn’t be a good fit.
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to ward off the pre-interview jitters. They include:
Fresh Air and Exercise
Exercise produces endorphins – your feel-good neurotransmitters – and burns off excess nervous energy. Try to get a brief walk in, preferably in the fresh air, before your phone or in-person interview. Even five minutes before entering the building can work wonders.
The STOP Method
STOP is a proven means of tackling stressful situations. It reminds you that you have the power to slow down, banish your nerves, and be deliberate in your thoughts and actions. STOP stands for:
- Stop what you’re doing.
- Take a few deep breaths.
- Observe what’s going on with your body, emotions, and mind, and why you’re feeling this way.
- Proceed, with an intention to incorporate what you observed into your actions.
Over Preparing
Rehearse your questions ahead of time. Have your outfit, down to the very last accessory, ready and laid out the night before. Make yourself a cheat sheet of everything you want to remember to bring to your interview. Take an advance trip to nail down how long it will take to get there, allowing for traffic, parking and other details – and leaving five to 10 extra minutes, just in case. There are a lot of details here, but take on one at a time and remember: practice makes perfect.
Rest and Diet
It may be easier said than done, but get a good night’s rest before your interview. Ease up on caffeine and alcohol. Drift off to sleep visualizing success, perhaps while listening to soothing music or a mediation app. When the big day dawns, eat a healthy breakfast or lunch. You know your stomach, so avoid anything that may further upset or embarrass you during your interview.
Keeping It in Perspective
Of course, your interview is really, really important. But you’ve made it this far, so the hiring manager is already impressed with you. Keep in mind that as long as you’re well prepared, it’s just a conversation – and it’s equally important to your interviewers.
- In the words of Richard Moy, author of How to Keep Your Cool When You Interview with Your Dream Company: “As much as you want to work for them, they’re also really hoping you’re the one.” How’s that for a confidence booster?
The expert team at PrideStaff Fresno can guide you through interview prep, as well as all aspects of your successful job search process. And, we can match you with the best career opportunities in the region in administration, customer service, IT, finance, legal support, healthcare, and production and distribution. Contact us today to learn more.