5 Ways To Tackle Pre-interview Anxiety
The idea of an interview can be pretty daunting for most people. It is not just about being able to answer questions about yourself and your qualifications—it is also about making sure that you are at your best physically and mentally. It is important to note that most interviewers try to keep the meeting as friendly as possible. That said, practicing certain techniques and anxiety-alleviating methods before the interview will certainly help you fare better.
5 ways to tackle pre-interview jitters:
Practice makes perfect
Practice is key to success, especially when it comes to interviews. If you want to get rid of your anxiety and ensure you’re ready for any questions, practice makes perfect. The different ways that people can practice are, in front of a mirror, with friends or family members, via videotape, or mock interview sessions. You can also record a video of yourself interviewing someone else. Ensure that you pick a time when there is the least number of interruptions or distractions.
Do your homework
This is the most crucial step of all, and it is also the easiest one. You will want to know everything about the company you are interviewing with, including its mission statement and core values. If anything jumps out at you during research, write it down so that you may refer to this list later in your preparation process. Note that it is advisable to be aware of the organization’s competitors too. Researching companies can help provide insight into how successful businesses operate in different fields. Also, note other factors, such as the company’s cultural fit and ethos.
Eat a healthy meal
Eat a well-balanced, healthy meal and drink plenty of water before your interview. Avoid caffeine and sugary drinks before an interview because they can make you anxious. If you have a dry throat, opt for a sip or two of water or herbal tea rather than cold drinks. Don’t eat any food item that will make you feel gassy or sluggish. Fruits and lean salads are good options to consider.
Stay off social media
Set yourself up for success when going to an interview by deleting all your social media apps. You’ll feel better if nothing else is going on except for what’s happening right now—your interview or presentation.
Don’t look at other people’s interviews, either. It might make you feel insecure or worried about your own prospects. Avoid reading about others’ performances, as it can distract you and increase your anxiety.
Practice breathing techniques
You have put in the hard work, and now it’s time to reap the rewards. If you’re feeling nervous, remind yourself that this can be a good thing— it means the interview means a lot to you and that you’re ready for it. Take a deep breath before entering the interview room and if required, arrive at the office building early enough to get in a few minutes of meditation.
Take deep breaths and focus on each of your breaths while counting each. Inhale slowly through your nose as much as possible; exhale completely through your mouth. Repeat ten times if possible (or until it feels comfortable).
At the end of all this, looking at an interview pragmatically is essential. After all, an interview is a meeting between a prospective employer and a potential employee. It is also equally important to remember that an interview has no right or wrong conclusion. If you think you did not do your best, there is always a next chance where you will have learned from this experience. If you get selected, it is still beneficial to consider what made you stand out and double your strengths!