Are you finding it challenging to stay calm during the interview? Not anymore.
We agree job interview nervousness is quite common. Butterflies in the stomach, shortness of breath, dry mouth, and sweaty palms are common interview nervousness feelings.
Job interviews may be the most nerve-wracking, and any interview situation will make people a little anxious. This article will explore what causes job interview nerves and provide some tips on how to stay calm during interview.
How to Keep Calm During an Interview
It is essential to always stay calm during the interview to present your best self. Here are some tips on how to do so:
1. Walk
Fresh air is beneficial to everyone. If you have a phone interview, take a walk around the block (or a run if you’re feeling adventurous) to release all those good endorphins. If you’re meeting in person, take five minutes to stroll around and clear your brain before entering the building.
2. Don’t give up after a job search. You still have a chance!
In every job search, there is a lesson to be learnt. One of these lessons is that you will meet obstacles on your way to success, and some will say no right from the start. However, please do not give up without reasoning why they refused your offer.
Consider these three questions to be more of a professional at work – what are the areas for improvement of your weaknesses? What skills do you need to improve? What can you do to keep yourself more motivated on the job?
If you have received a refusal letter or email, don’t be afraid to contact the employer for feedback. Not only will you know what mistakes you made during the interview, but you’ll also get an opportunity to learn why the employer rejected your application.
3. Sit up straight during the interview
It can be challenging to concentrate on your interviewers’ questions when you’re not sitting up straight. Try to resist the temptation to slouch or fidget by squaring your shoulders and maintaining an upright posture.
Your voice will end up coming out clearer, which is essential if you’re attending a meeting or speaking at an event. As long as you appear confident, people will trust you.
4. Make a cheat sheet for interviews
Planning for the worst is just as vital as preparing for the best. The more you have planned ahead of time, the less you have to worry about.
So, make a note on your phone and scribble down all the essentials:
- The hiring manager’s name.
- Job specifications.
- The key points you’d like to convey in the interview.
- Your questions.
- Anything else that comes to mind.
Then, just before you’re called in, pull that baby out, and you’ll feel so secure you’ve got it all covered.
5. Have a healthy meal
A great meal can ensure a great interview. For some, this could mean eating healthy, with food rich in antioxidants that give you that extra boost of energy. For others, it might involve eating comfort foods. The choice is yours!
6. It is normal to be nervous during a job interview
First, it is critical to understand that interview nerves are not always a bad thing; if you learn to harness them, you can become better in interviews. When your brain is engaged, and your senses are sharpened, you may create connections faster and perform effectively under pressure.
Furthermore, interviewers will expect to be nervous because it displays eagerness and a desire to get the job. A candidate who appears calm and laid back during a job interview is less likely to succeed since the interviewer will conclude they are not interested in the role.
7. Smile
I’m sure you’ve heard the saying, “Fake it ’til you make it.” Well, science backs up this theory. Studies have shown that smiling can induce more happiness in the brain. And while some people are naturally blessed with a smile, more are not.
I’m sure we’ve all experienced that feeling of self-doubt or low self-esteem, but smiling can make you confident.
8. Breathe and take your time
When you are constantly stressed or anxious, your breathing pattern likely changes. Shallow breaths can lead to poor oxygenation of the body, creating more anxiety. Deep, slow breaths allow for better oxygen flow and are related to relaxation.
You’ll also want to take your time. If a question catches you off guard, don’t jump straight in with an answer.
Taking this time to formulate your thoughts and write a thoughtful answer will allow you to provide a coherent and well-formed explanation that is specific. If you need to take quick notes to help you remember what points you want to cover, go ahead.
9. Accept that mistakes will occur
Employers don’t want perfection; they want flexibility and resilience. Relieving the pressure on the perfection valve will help you perform better and will demonstrate to your potential employer that you can be graceful in the face of adversity.
10. Remember It’s Just a Discussion
Finally, keep in mind that you are not about to leap out of an aeroplane or fight a shark. You’re in front of one or two people, having a pleasant talk about your career. As much as you want to work for them, they’re also genuinely hoping you’re the one.
So you’re not the only one who’s under strain. Remember that interviewees aren’t just interrogating you—you have things to ask, and they are probably worried about creating a good first impression as well.
11. Keep in mind that there are other options available
Don’t put too much pressure on yourself because you’re applying for a job. It’s fair that you’re scared if this is your job interview, but remember that there are others out there if you don’t get that job.
Bonus Tip
This post presents a few things to feel confident and calm during the interview. But some important things to keep in mind are:
First, it is important to dress nicely and professionally present yourself. That means wearing clothes with a professional cut that fit well.
Second, it’s crucial that you know the interviewer’s questions and has some good answers prepared ahead of time. These could include “Tell me about your strengths, What are your weaknesses or What are some of the responsibilities of this position”.
Finally, make sure you have practised what you want to say in response to these questions if they come up during the interview process.
