Tips to stay calm and confident
Interviews can be nerve-wracking experiences, but understanding why we get nervous and learning how to manage those nerves can make a big difference. Here are a few reasons that can contribute…
Why do we get nervous in interviews?
- Fear of the unknown: not knowing what questions will be asked or how the interviewer will react can create anxiety.
- High stakes: the pressure of securing a job and making a good impression can feel overwhelming.
- Lack of preparation: feeling unprepared or unsure about your responses can contribute to nervousness.
- Self-doubt: worrying about your qualifications, experience, or ability to communicate effectively can lead to stress.
- Past negative experiences: a previous bad interview can increase anxiety for future ones.
How to overcome those interview nerves
1. Prepare thoroughly
- Research the company, the role, and common interview questions which you can find on plenty of internet resources.
- Practice answering questions aloud or with a friend. This might feel a bit awkward at first, but a few dummy runs will help you express yourself more confidently.
- Prepare stories and examples to put proof behind your experience.
2. Boost your confidence
- Remind yourself of your accomplishments and why you’re a strong candidate, and there is no harm in listing these down as a reminder on the day.
- Stay positive and try and visualise how you want the interview to go but be prepared for a few curveball questions that you might not be able to answer confidently, it's ok...just don’t rush your answers.
- Dress professionally to feel more confident and cover all the bases, you never know what the expectations are of the interviewer.
3. Manage physical symptoms of stress
- Take deep breaths to stay calm and composed.
- Maintain good posture, use open body language, and try not to cross your arms.
- Speak clearly to avoid rushing your answers.
- Try and keep eye contact and smile, a smile conveys friendliness and openness and should put the interviewer at ease as well.
4. Reframe your perspective
- The interview is a two-way conversation not an interrogation. You are interviewing them as well.
- Remember that the employer wants you to succeed, or you wouldn’t be sitting there in the first place.
- Focus on what you can control and don’t worry too much about the stuff you couldn’t control; that’s in the lap of the gods.
5. Use relaxation techniques
- Try meditation, stretching, or light exercise before the interview, but maybe not in the waiting room!
- Listen to your favourite music or engage in an activity that helps you relax.
- If caffeine makes you jittery, maybe go for the fruit juice.
6. Plan for the unexpected
- If you get a tough question, take a moment to think before answering.
- If you feel nervous, acknowledge it, and there is nothing wrong with telling your interviewer you are nervous, it might even tick an empathetic box.
- Have a backup plan for potential technical issues in virtual interviews and do a dummy run to make sure your device or laptop, and the internet are working.
Final thoughts
Interview nerves are normal. With a bit of preparation, you can manage them effectively. By understanding the causes of anxiety and applying these practical tips, you’ll be able to present yourself with confidence and perform at your best. Go Smash It!
