I recently worked with a client who was beyond nervous about their upcoming interview, to the point of paralysis. It was a stark reminder to me, of just how debilitating interview nerves can be, which prompted me to write this blog today.
It’s natural to be a bit nervous before an interview. In fact, it can enhance your performance. But if your nerves are getting the better of you, you need to get hold of them, look them in the eye and get them under control.
Interview anxiety can show itself in all sorts of ways from
- Sweating
- Racing heart
- Dry throat
- Breaking or squeaky voice
- Forgetfulness
- Speaking too quickly
- Skin rash
To more Severe Interview Anxiety Symptoms such as
- Blank mind syndrome, brain-freeze during the interview
- Panic attacks
- Crying
- Too scared to go for interviews
- Cancelling or not turning up for interviews
- Not applying for jobs
If any of the above sound familiar to you, read on to find out how you can calm your nerves and give yourself a better chance at the next interview.
-
You are one of a kind
Remind yourself what you bring to the role. What is your Unique Selling Point (USP) that sets you apart from your competition? You probably have more than one.
Spending a little time considering your strengths and experiences will boost confidence and help to settle any nerves. -
Be yourself
This is so important. You will feel more at ease and build better rapport with the interviewer. You want to present the best version of yourself, but make sure it’s authentic. A good employer will recognise this and appreciate your transparency. -
Preparation is important but don’t over prepare
Prepare your examples but don’t try to remember your answers word for word. Questions might be framed in a way that means you can’t answer what you’ve practised. Working with an interview coach to help you prepare can be very beneficial. It gives you the opportunity to answer as you would in the real interview and get feedback on what you answered well and where you could improve. -
Break the negative cycle of rejection
Your mindset is important to get right before you go into your next interview. If you have been rejected from the last few jobs you have been for, it can be easy to start thinking you are rubbish at interviews.
Not true.
A) they might not actually have been the right jobs for you anyway,
and
B) perfecting the art of interviewing takes practise, so in the words of Jess Glynne, “Don’t be so Hard on yourself!” -
Own it
Sometimes, it helps to tell the employer that you’re a bit nervous. Interview anxiety is understandable when you want the job and know you are being assessed and most interviewers are understanding of that. -
Most importantly … SMILE 😊
A smile makes all the difference. However nervous you might feel inside, if you can smile, you will produce more endorphins, which relieve pain and stress.
I hope you have found these pointers helpful.
If you think you would benefit from some extra support for your next interview, get in touch and I’d be very happy to help make sure you shine in front of your next interviewer.
07388537435
Jessica.cox@peakperformancehr.co.uk