CALM YOUR INTERVIEW NERVES BY THE FOLLOWING STEPS
You've prepared for every possible interview question imaginable. You've done extensive study on the company. You've been looking forward to this moment for what feels like years, and now it's almost here.
You, on the other hand, are a nervous wreck. You want to do something to bring yourself back in a calm and collected state before it happens, whether it's a few hours or a few minutes away.
It's a good thing you're reading this because there are 12 things you can do right now to calm your interview anxieties, and at least one of them will help.
1. Take a Walk
Fresh air is beneficial to everyone. If you have a phone interview, take a walk around the block (or a run if you're feeling adventurous) to release all those good endorphins. If you're meeting in person, take five minutes to stroll around and clear your brain before entering the building.
2. Put the S.T.O.P method into action.
This is the greatest mental strategy for dealing with any stressful scenario, according to executive coach Chris Charyk. This is how it goes:
Stop doing whatever it is you're doing and concentrate on your thoughts.
Take a couple deep breaths in and out.
Become aware of what's going on in your body, emotions, and mind, as well as why you're experiencing these sensations.
Continue with the objective of incorporating what you saw in your observations.
This strategy emphasizes the necessity of slowing down and being intentional not only in what you do, but also in the sensations you let to take over. It reminds you that even in the most stressful conditions, you have the power to overcome your own fears, doubts, and nerves.
3. Be Prepared for the Worst-Case Scenario
Whatever your greatest fear is, there is always a solution. Do you have lettuce in your teeth? In your bag, keep a compact mirror and floss (among these other essentials you should always bring to an interview). Worried that you won't be able to come up with a good answer to a difficult question? When you don't know an answer, be proactive and learn how to conceal your tracks. You may rest easy knowing that if you plan ahead, you'll be prepared for anything.
4. Create a cheat sheet for interviews.
Preparing for the worst is just as vital as preparing for anything. The more you have planned ahead of time, the less you have to be concerned about. Start a note on your phone with all the essentials—the building address, the hiring manager's name, the time, the three key points you'd like to convey in the interview, your questions, and anything else that comes to mind. Then, just before you're called in, whip that baby out and you'll be so sure you've covered everything.
5. Make a plan for what you'll do afterward.
So, while anxious sweating for two hours in front of a complete stranger isn't something you're looking forward to, what is something you'd be excited to push through for? What about a good meal? What about a massage? A Netflix date with your dog and your favourite show? Prepare for it to be ready when you're through, so you'll have something exciting to look forward to and focus on instead of your nerves.
6. Have a Healthy Breakfast (or Lunch)
A fantastic meal precedes a terrific interview. For some, this entails choosing a nutritious option that is high in energy-boosting antioxidants. It could be indulging in your favourite comfort foods for others. There is no right or wrong response; just get it right.
7. Give yourself a pat on the back.
It's not weird to talk to yourself—in fact, it's a good idea (and scientifically proven to help motivate yourself). Tell yourself all you need to hear: you're smart, you're qualified for this role, and you'll be fantastic. Say it out loud (it will stick better this way) and confidently. Just make sure you do it in a peaceful area.
8. Make a (Uplifting) Phone Call
Nothing beats the support of a kind, supportive friend or family member. Many times before a large, stressful event, I've called my mother, and it's made all the difference (and I'm not ashamed to admit, I still do it as an adult). Basically, if you can't give yourself the motivation you need, delegate it to someone else.
9. Take in some music
Alternatively, whatever else motivates you (a podcast, a speech by your idol). This way, instead of negative ideas, you may fill your mind with energy and excitement.
10. Make a happy face
It's no secret that smiling makes you feel more confident, so what's the harm in giving it a shot?
None, as far as I'm aware. Even better, if you keep it long enough, the recruiting manager will warm up to you.
11. Use Stress as an Adrenaline Booster
Because nervousness and adrenaline are significantly associated, research suggest that getting pumped up rather than calmed down before public speaking delivers better results (saying "I'm excited" rather than "I'm calm").
So if you're trembling and your heart is racing, that's a good sign. Take it as it comes. "By reframing your apprehensive energy as thrilled energy, you may still feel pumped up—just in a way that helps you perform better instead of a way that hampers you," explains Mark Slack, a Muse writer and consultant.
12. Keep in mind that it's only a conversation.
Finally, keep in mind that you are not about to leap out of an aeroplane or fight a shark. You're in front of one or two people, having a pleasant talk about your career. "As much as you want to work for them, they're also genuinely hoping you're the one," Muse writer Richard Moy said in his post "How to Keep Your Cool When You Interview With Your Dream Company."
So you're not the only one who's under strain. Remember that they aren't just interrogating you—you have questions that need to be answered, and they are likely worried about creating a good first impression as well.