You’re excited and nervous. This is your dream job. Here are a few simple ways you could shake off your jittery, butterflies-in-the-stomach feeling before an interview.
You’re excited and nervous. This is your dream job. Maybe you’re talking too fast due to anxiety. ‘Course you cannot let your nerves get over you, as that could jeopardize your chances of employment. Here are a few simple ways you could shake off your jittery, butterflies-in-the-stomach feeling before an interview.
1. Plan ahead
Generally, job applicants tend to get nervous because they don’t know what to expect. Plan ahead and think all through the worst case scenarios. By worst case scenarios i don’t mean thinking about questions like “why do you want to work with us” or “what makes you different from the other candidates.” Jotting down answers to the questions you fear the most is what I am implying to. If you remain cool, calm and collected during an interview, you will project an air of confidence that employers find attractive in a candidate. Rehearse a few questions, if possible.
2. Know about the organisation
Conducting a small and quick research on the organisation you’re going to be interviewed for, is a good way to know what exactly are they looking forward to. Knowing the company’s mission statement and scrutinising the job description could brief you about the type of candidate they’re looking for.
3. Make your CV a reflection of yourself
Your CV has served you well so far. Your CV will also make your interviewers question you about your past experiences in other organisations. Do NOT add false information to your CV, as recruiters have their own way of cross checking things. Make sure your CV highlights your strengths. Focus on what you want to convey about yourself rather than guessing what the interviewer is thinking.
4. Be optimistic and confident
Always remind yourself of your skills and accomplishments and why you are the best person for the job. Visualize yourself doing a great job. If you experience shaky hands, then fold them and place them in your lap. If you have a trembling voice or butterflies in your stomach, take several deep, calming breaths. Also, your personality is highly affected by the confidence level within you. So, make sure you are confident, and not overconfident about getting the job.
5. Getting nervous is natural
Feeling nervous during the interview is natural and it’s ok to admit it. During the beginning of the interview or if you start to stumble on a question, it’s ok to say something like, “I apologize, I’m extremely nervous” or “It’s been quite some time that I’ve been in this position.” Know that mistakes will happen. But to rectify those in time, is what your interviewer is looking for.
Lastly, remember that, this is not the only job in the world. If this was the only job out there and this was your only job interview, it would be understandable why you would be so anxious.
