Blog #6: Break the Interview Jitters, Tips to Maintain Your Cool
The job interview process is a daunting experience for all of us. As I trek through my own job prospects I continuously get the jitters in preparation for the one, two, five-hour dialogue.
So, how do you remain calm?
It’s one of those things where everyone has their own methods of handling interview nerves. There’s no right or wrong way and I’m definitely not an interview expert. But think of me as your online well-intentioned gal pal, here to share a few ways I like to prepare for interviews. And if you have some, I’d LOVE to hear your words, o wise one.
1. Don’t over study
What in the world, how does one over study for an interview? Maybe it’s just me, but sometimes I tend to do some in depth preparation. I’ll study the company website, type possible responses, practice to myself, basically be the best student I could be. But then, I get too into my head, too rehearsed. It’s a must to read the job description, consider how it correlates to your career, if they give you prompts prepare your reply, and browse the company website, but aside from that don’t fret too much. Cap off how much time you spend on your preparation and be confident in your accomplishments.
2. Lizzie McGuire you’re an outfit repeater
That line has practically nothing to do with this advice, but I hope if you’re a fellow Lizzie McGuire lover you cracked a smile. Pick your outfit the night before, whether you have your go-to lucky blazer or you purchased something new for the occasion. Make sure you feel the best you could be in it, because it is important to feel comfortable, beautiful and ready to take this moment by the horns. Also, when you have your attire picked the night before, you don’t have to fret over it the day of and are able to focus on more important aspects.
3. Sleep, shower and eat your veggies
Actually eat a yummy meal in general (wouldn’t want your tummy to grumble during your introduction). It’s the simplest advice I could offer that you’re probably well aware of already. I get extremely antsy the night before I have to go in, and have the hardest time falling asleep. But try your best to get a solid few hours, take a nice warm shower and enjoy a good meal, that way your body and brain are properly functioning when you need it most.
4. Distractions are your friend
Usually, you want to avoid distractions when you want to get into game mode. But, if you’re like me and get too in your head, it’s best to prepare the day before and let the interview take its course. You’ve done everything needed to prepare for this moment, now it’s important to breathe and get in the right headspace. There’s nothing new you could add to your mental storage of information, now watch your favorite show, read the next chapter of your current book, play with your pup and breathe because you’re ready to go.
5. It’s better to be early than late
Plan your arrival, whether you’re driving, taking public transportation or calling a car, have your plan in action. If you have a morning interview, wake up a few hours beforehand to relax around the house and take your sweet time. That way you can waltz right in, instead of running in frantically.
6. Que será, será
Whatever will be, will be. Do your best and forget the rest. Shine bright like a diamond. How many inspirational clichés could I fit? But in all seriousness, take a breath before you walk into the conference room, remember to take pride in all that you’ve accomplished, be genuine, if you don’t know the answer be honest and above all else have faith. You’ve already reached this round and you’ve done all you could do up to this point, and as long as you tried your hardest you should be proud of yourself. And to that I say, You Go Glen Coco!