Bye, Interview Anxiety
In a job interview, you want to appear confident, competent and intelligent. Nervousness and anxiety distract you from portraying yourself as the best “you” you can be.
It’s important to remember if you made it to the interview, the company has reason to believe in you. The interviewer is pulling for you. She’s not out to get you.
When you are visibly nervous, she may sympathize with you by altering questions or shortening the interview. There are steps you can take to ease your nerves and show the interviewer your are capable of the position.
Before the Interview
Step 1
Study the job description and the company.
Step 2
Make a list of common interview questions. Write out your answers.
Step 3
Practice answering the questions in front of the mirror or with a friend.
Step 4
Travel to the interview site. Make note of the travel time, location and any factors that could slow you down on the interview day.
The Interview
Step 1
Dress in your favorite professional outfit. Wear clothes that fit. Clothes that are too tight are confining and uncomfortable.
Step 2
Focus on the interviewer. Listen to her statements, hold eye contact. Focusing on another person will help you relax.
Step 3
Pause. If you need to think about your answer, it is okay to stop and think.
Step 4
Smile. Smiling and laughing at a joke the interviewer makes will relax you.
