Job interviews can be stressful and they can cause applicants to buckle under pressure and fall prey to anxiety and nervousness. There is no denying that interviews are the most important part of the job application process. But letting your nerves get to you won’t help you put forth your best self.
Here are some tips to help you stay calm during your job interview:
Prepare yourself
It’s critical to go prepared to your interview. You should know every part of your resume and should be able to answer any question that is related to your professional profile and past experiences. It is also necessary to read up on the company you are going to be interviewing with and conducting a detailed research on their product lines, strategy as well as the role in question. Research the company’s vision, culture and gather information about the people who work there. Then use this information along with the job description to provide examples that showcase your suitability for the role.
Mock Interview
Some experts suggest going through a mock interview. Get a friend or career coach to act as an interviewer or practice in front of the mirror. This process will help you anticipate questions to which you might not have thought of answers. Additionally you could record your mock interviews and play them back to identify how you come across. Mock interviews help you refine your body language, your tone and eye contact. The more you practice the more proficient you become.
Plan ahead of time
Plan your outfit, have it dry cleaned/ ironed in advance, and lay out your clothes the night before. Make the right number of prints of your resume based on the number of people interviewing you and information of documents to carry with you. Try to send an email to the hiring manager in advance, and find out who you would be interviewing with. This helps you in knowing more about them through researching their LinkedIn profiles. Keep the address of your interview at hand, find out the exact location of your interview and have the directions and reliable means of transportation chalked out. Estimate the time you need and aim to arrive 10-15 minutes early.
Get a good night’s sleep
Getting a good night’s sleep before the interview is important so you feel fresh. Avoid pulling a late night or going to a party. You need at least eight hours of quality sleep. You could also play some soothing music to help set the mood while you sleep. Good music acts as a mood enhancer and makes you feel positive and relaxed. Ensure you have your meals of the day on time, before leaving for the interview. Carry cereal bars and some water with you if it is a long commute to your interview location, in case you are expected to hang around for more rounds or if the interview lasts longer than estimated.
Take deep breaths and be positive
Very often candidates are expected to wait in the lobby or the waiting area before they are called in. Use this opportunity to take a few deep breaths and usher positive thoughts. Visualize yourself at your best, doing very well at the interview and getting hired for the job. Positive thinking helps you focus better and helps you to confidently showcase your strengths and skills.
Finally, relax and treat your interview as a conversation.
