Dealing With Job Interview Anxiety
Job interviews are the gateway to exciting opportunities. It is a crucial step between you and your next career move. An interview gives you the chance to showcase your skills and personality beyond what’s written on your resume. However, this opportunity often comes with anxiety. Feeling nervous when meeting new people or being evaluated is completely normal, but allowing job interview anxiety to overshadow your confidence can hinder your performance. 93% of people feel anxious about job interviews.
Some interviewers may intentionally create a tense environment for you. This is a “no” for me. At this point, focus on what you can control. My experience with Job interviews (as an interviewee and interviewer) has helped me to develop strategies to manage nerves before and during interviews. Here are three effective tips that have worked wonders for me.
3 tips to calm your job interview anxiety
Smile when you enter the room or join the call
A genuine smile is a game-changer. A smile reduces stress. Besides, you tell your mind that you are interested in what you are doing at the moment. Smile when you join a virtual or in-person interview. This creates a positive atmosphere and puts you and the interviewer at ease. Smiles are contagious, and this small gesture can set the tone for a more relaxed and engaging conversation.
Ask how they are doing (If they don’t ask you first)
Breaking the ice by showing interest in your interviewer is an excellent way to foster rapport. A simple question like, “How are you doing today?” can shift the interaction from rigid formality to a more conversational tone. This small act of courtesy opens up the dialogue and reduces tension, making you feel more at ease.
Go over your notes before the interview
Preparation is the antidote to job interview anxiety. Review your notes about the company, role, and potential questions before stepping into the interview. This habit refreshes your memory and boosts your confidence. I have saved all potential interview questions with responses in my Google Drive. I go over them before any interview. Try it.
Job interview anxiety is a common experience, but it doesn’t have to hold you back. Keep practicing and you will become better at it. Approach it with self-assurance, and you’ll leave a lasting impression.
