Interviews can be the most nerve-wracking experience during your job application process. Applicants may lose their cool under pressure which affects their performance in the interview. While it’s absolutely okay to get interview jitters, it’s in your best interest to get your nerves under control so you can concentrate on making the best first impression.
It’s no secret that interviews are crucial in getting the job and past the initial surge of adrenaline, our nerves let us down. Below are some of the best tips to help you stay calm, confident and ace that interview. But before we get there, let’s look at some interview do’s and don’ts first.
The goal is to impress the hiring manager with your experience and qualifications for the position they’re seeking to be filled. So, how do you go about this? Read on to find out:
Interview do’s
Arrive early
Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before your interview. To avoid being late, consider mapping out your route the day before your interview to determine the time it’ll take you to reach the venue.
Bring extra copies of your documents
Carrying several copies of your documents illustrates preparedness. Moreover, you may be interviewed by a panel, and it would be best if you supply each member with a copy of your documents.
Aim to create the best first impression
Ensure you dress appropriately, be respectful and polite to everyone you meet at the office and maintain eye contact whenever necessary. Remember, your looks and how you carry yourself can determine whether you land a job or not within the first three minutes.
Let the interviewer take charge
Allow the interviewer to lead and guide the direction of the conversation. This allows them to obtain all the relevant information from you, meaning the better your chances. However, you should not let the interview become a one-sided yes-and-no meeting. Clarify issues whenever possible and turn it into a dialogue.
Thank the interviewer
At the end of the interview, thank your interviewer for their time and the opportunity. Follow up with a thank-you email within 48 hours after your meeting.
Interview don’ts
Lie
It may be tempting to lie about your skills and qualifications or the employment gap on your resume, but don’t. Remember, there’s a very high possibility that your previous employer may be contacted. Moreover, it is effortless to find information on the internet nowadays. Therefore, don’t exaggerate your qualifications.
Use your phone
Try not to use your phone during the interview, in fact, it’s best to switch it off or keep it on silent.
Be negative
Avoid bringing up your weaknesses. In fact, don’t even bring them up unless the interviewer asks about them.
Don’t overdo deodorants or perfumes
Apply these in moderation and avoid any overpowering and intense brands.
Remember the reason you’re there
Be confident in your abilities. Remember that you’ve come this far because the hiring manager saw that you might be a good fit for the position and now it’s up to you to convince them that you’re not only good on paper but in person as well.
Be prepared to sell yourself by talking about your skills and experiences and connecting the dots for the employer to prove that you’re indeed the perfect candidate for the position.
Prepare for the interview
Prepare in advance so you are not caught off guard during the interview. This will give you plenty of time to focus on what’s actually important, acing the interview. Print out copies of your resume and map out the company’s location putting into consideration the time it will take you to get there, your mode of transport, traffic and so on.
Additionally, prepare your interview attire ahead of time. Similarly, on the day of the interview, arrive early with plenty of time to spare and use this time to review your notes.
Practice the interview
The key to a good interview is how you prepare for it. As they say, practice makes perfect. Fortunately, this applies to interviews as well. Thoroughly research the company so that basic questions about their business do not catch you off-guard. Conduct a mock interview in front of the mirror. Go through predictable interview questions ahead of time so that you get to answer them in a thoughtful and articulate manner.
Be confident and avoid mumbling or showing signs that you are nervous. Pay attention to your posture, eye contact, and facial expressions. Square your shoulders and sit up straight so that your voice projects naturally.
Remember to always flash a smile. First impressions last.
Stay focused
Aim to impress the interviewer and leave them captivated. Stay on topic and avoid long-winded responses. Take your time to organize your points and thoughts and try to be precise when speaking and answering questions.
Do your homework
It’s your job to convince the hiring manager that you are familiar with the position and the company you’re applying to. Conduct a comprehensive research and avoid being blindsided with questions about the company or position that you can’t answer.
Ensure you know the company’s mission statement, any recent accomplishment and think about how you would be able to contribute to this. When they ask if you have any questions for the interviewer, you should at least ask three insightful questions about the role of the employer or any other that may have come up as you were being interviewed.
Avoid caffeine
Coffee causes your adrenaline to pump faster meaning that all your body functions become heightened. Meaning you might have sweaty hands, become anxious and so on. If possible, avoid coffee and have a cup of tea instead.
Stand up while you wait
When you walk into an interview, you’ll often be directed to a boardroom. As you wait for the hiring manager or interview, stand until he or she arrives. Consider the fact, that you’ll be judged from the minute you walk into the building. This way you will appear more confident if the first time you meet the hiring team you are at eye level.
Consider the interview as a two-way conversation
Although this is an exciting opportunity, consider there’s also the possibility that you may turn the position down if it is not right for you. Think about the interview as your opportunity to vet the working environment, company culture, salary offering, and whether working for the company will be satisfying or challenging.
It’s comforting to know that although the employer is deciding whether you are the ideal candidate, you are also determining whether the job is right for you. Additionally, remember the hiring manager or interviewer is also a human being just like you and you should view them as a person. Doing this will help you stay calm and allow you to demonstrate your personality.
Embrace relaxation techniques
If you feel like you’re getting pre-interview jitters, consider using a relaxation technique to stay calm. For instance, listening to music, visualization or breathing prevents negative thinking, which helps you stay focused, confident and relaxed.
Ask questions
When preparing for your interview, remember to include a list of questions that you would wish to ask the hiring manager. A good strategy is to prepare 3 personal questions about his/her experience working for the company and 3 business questions. Making this list in advance will help you avoid challenges and stress from trying to formulate coherent questions off the top of your head.
Preparation and planning are essential to acing your interview and landing the job. Below is a list to help you prepare and ensure you have everything you need before your big day:
Follow the tips provided above and you’ll be one step closer to getting your dream job. Keep in mind, the interviewer will be vetting you from the minute you set foot in the interview room. Stay calm and prove to them that you are not only fit for the position on paper but in person as well.
Do you know any other helpful tips to stay calm during an interview? Share them in the comments below.
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