How to Calm Job Interview Jitters
An invitation to interview is a positive step toward securing a job. However, with so much pressure to make a lasting impression, many job candidates experience the interview jitters. Calm your jitters by doing your homework, dressing the part and reducing the number of things that can go wrong on the big day, like getting lost and showing up late.
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Instructions
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Prepare for your interview. Preparation is a large part of your interview success, according to Ashworth College. Enlist the help of a friend to stage a mock interview. Have her ask you questions about your strengths, weakness and workplace successes. Other potential questions she might pose include, "Why don't you tell me about yourself?" "Why do you want this position?" or "What skills prepare you for this job?"
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Find the interview site before the big day. If you get lost on your way to the interview, your jitters will get even worse. Plus, arriving frustrated or late won't make a positive impression with the hiring manager. Knowing where to go on your interview day will ease the stress and help keep you calm.
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Make a list of questions for the hiring manager. After the interview is over, the hiring manager will likely ask if you have any questions about the organization. Fight interview jitters by having your questions written out before hand. Shifting the attention away from you and onto the interviewer will also help alleviate jitters.
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Feel more confident by dressing appropriately. Women need to wear a business suit, recommends Lehigh University. Men shoulder wear a solid-colored suit and patterned tie. Select dark colors, like navy, brown, gray or black. Skip the cologne or perfume. Interview rooms are small and the scent is distracting to hiring managers.
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Relax before the interview. After you check in with the receptionist, sit down and take a few deep breaths. Visualize yourself having a great interview and answering all of the questions perfectly. Continue to take deep breaths to calm your anxiety.
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Tips & Warnings
Don't forget to ask for the next step in the process. This will help you secure a second interview and let the hiring manager know you're interested in the job.
Send a thank you note after the interview. Ask the interviewer for a business card and follow up with a professional, handwritten note thanking him for his time and again expressing your interest in the position.
References
Resources
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