Do Interviews Scare You? 8 Practical Tips to Eliminate the Interview Frights

Advice From Employers / October 26, 2021

You’ve been focused on finding just the right job for you. Now you think you’ve found it and the interview process begins. However, you’re scared silly.

Well, that’s okay. Getting the interview jitters is not unusual, even when you’re confident that your skills and talents are the perfect fit. Here are eight tips for eliminating the jittery frights that come with the prospect of interviewing.

1. Do your homework

It goes without saying that you researched the company before you applied for the job, but it’s always a good idea to go back and review your notes. Give some thought about potential questions you might be asked, how you would answer them, and the message you want to convey. No need to memorize your responses because you want to sound natural, not robotic.

As reported in Forbes, Ashley Strausser, associate director for Career and Professional Development at Otterbein University, said, “The more time you spend preparing, the more confident you’ll be. Those who have done their research and can articulate how their skills and qualifications align with the position will be prepared, even when they’re asked the tough questions.”

2. What questions do you have?

While the employer wants to assess whether or not you’re a fit, you always want to do the same. What questions have come to mind for you that will help you determine if you want the job? Also, if you know who will be interviewing you, look them up on LinkedIn® to learn more about them, their role at the company, their interests, etc. When you show you’re interested, that person will find you interesting.

3. Know where you’re going

If yours will be an in-person interview, make sure you know where the location is and/or if parking is readily available. Leave enough travel time so you arrive early and feel less stressed about finding your way around.

If the interview is virtual, be sure your technology works (i.e., computer, camera, microphone, WiFi connection, etc.). We all know that technology can be unpredictable at times so be sure to have a phone number you can call if something goes awry – it’s possible the glitch may be on  their end, not yours.

4. Talk to someone you trust

Call on a friend, family member or a colleague – someone you know, like and trust implicitly. Express your fears and concerns. Having someone who understands the journey you’ve been on and supports your efforts, can be soothing and reassuring when you’re feeling jittery.

5. Visualize the process

Imagine yourself in the interview as well as the outcome of the interview. See yourself calm and collected, well-dressed, smiling and confident. Picture how you’d respond to questions as well as the questions you’d ask. Visualizations have long been used successfully by athletes as part of their training. It helps them with mental awareness, self-esteem and performance. It can do the same for you too!

6. Shake out the jitters

A simple way to calm yourself down is to move. Whether it’s dancing around the room, shaking out your arms and legs, stretching, etc., movement/exercise releases adrenaline and decreases that nervous energy.

7. Dress for success

Deciding what to wear at the last minute can add to your stress – especially if, on the day of the interview, you notice a spot on that shirt or a pull in the fabric on that dress. Plan what you’re going to wear ahead of time. Be sure it’s clean, fits well, is ironed, looks professional and portrays you in your best light. You’ll fell confident when you walk in the door (or get on that video call).

8. RELAX

It may be easier said than done, but you’ve got this. Before the interview, take time to breathe. Sit in a quiet place and meditate, or take a walk outside – even if it’s just for 5 minutes. It’s a surefire way to wipe away the day’s stress and calm your nerves.

You’re ready. You’re confident and calm. Now go on out there and knock their socks off!