Don’t let interview anxiety get the best of you. Here’s how you can ensure a worry-free job interview.
Going to job interviews can be stressful. Don’t let interview anxiety get the best of you — being as prepared as possible will help you banish those jitters. Here’s how.
Research the company. Read everything you can about the company on their website, annual report, Form 10-K, press releases, etc. If you know someone who works there (or used to work there), ask questions to get a feel for the company, culture and hiring manager.
Prepare your documents. Make extra copies of your resume and list of references. Consider creating a portfolio of work examples. These samples can be especially helpful to pull out and discuss if you get tongue-tied during an interview.
Conduct mock interviews. Hold practice interviews with family and friends, so you’ll feel comfortable with the interview process.
Prepare questions for the hiring manager. Write down questions to ask the hiring manager about the job, the department or even his or her leadership style. Then, if your mind goes blank, you can look at your list and find a question that fits the moment.
Know where you need to go. Verify the company address and telephone number online by checking the company website a few days prior, so you aren’t worrying about these details the day of your interview. Download driving or public-transportation directions and check potential routes and estimated travel times, so you’ll be comfortable getting there.
Schedule enough time for the interview. Block your calendar so you won’t need to rush from one interview to the next, straight to another appointment or back to work. If the interview goes well, you might be asked to meet with someone else.
Bring the job description. Print out the job posting and bring it to your interview, so you can refer to it, if necessary.
Get some rest. It can be difficult to fall asleep the night before a big job interview, but try your best to get enough sleep so you’ll wake up refreshed and energized.
Exercise and eat healthy. Exercising is a great way to get rid of the jitters. Eating a healthy breakfast or lunch and avoiding caffeinated beverages can also help reduce interview nerves.
Relax. Arrive a little early to allow time to unwind or meditate. Take a few deep breaths while you clear your mind of distractions. Think happy, peaceful thoughts and picture yourself being offered the job. Positivity is key!
Lisa Quast is a certified executive coach, and the author of the book Secrets of a Hiring Manager Turned Career Coach. Email her at lquast@careerwomaninc.com.