Have you ever felt your knees shake during your job interview? Did it feel like too much pressure on your nerves? If yes, then you are not the only one experiencing this. For most people around us, a job interview is an extremely stressful experience. However, at the time you can only come to terms with this stress by acknowledging that job interview stress might help you in acing the interview.
For example; by practising for your job interview you can manage your stress level and this could lead to some effective responses during the interview. This is because there are times when we have researched about the company and then we are preparing for that important day which is now practically here. 70% of people do feel anxious, thinking about how the interview is going to be. So to get yourself back cool and calm your nerves, here we have few tips for you to handle your stress before and during your interview;
1. Go for a walk
Sometimes spending a few moments in the fresh air can do a lot of good as compared to anything else. In case of a phone interview go for a short walk around your block or if you are too ambitious at the moment a good run will help you release your healthy endorphins. For in-person, it’s better to take five minutes before the interview and walk around the place to get rid of your anxious thoughts. Spending a few moments with nature helps you to calm down your thoughts and that anxious feeling you feel inside your body.
Also read: How to Ace Your Next Job Interview
2. Perform the S.T.O.P Method
Practicing the S.T.O.P method is an incredible trick to handle any stressful situation. This method is executed in the following way;
- STOP whatever you are currently doing and focus on your thoughts for a moment
- TAKE a deep breath. Do this 3 to 4 times
- OBSERVE movements in your body, mind, and emotions. Think about why are you feeling in such a way
- PROCEED to include whatever you felt and observed in your actions
This technique helps you to slow down not only the things you do but also the feelings that take over your mind. It helps you to keep in mind that you can drive out your doubts and fears even in the most stressful situations.
It is essential to remind yourself that you are also interviewing the company just the way they are interviewing you. You also have some power in the conversation and posing good questions to the interviewers can be the wise thing to do. It is your right to know if the job and company can offer you what you expect to find in your next job.
Also read: 6 Things You Should Never Say In a Job Interview
3. Interview cheat sheet
It is advisable to note down all the important points in your phone for the interview such as; the recruiter’s name, the location, time, your questions, main things that you’d want to focus on. Skim through these points before you step into the room and you have it all covered.
4. Make sure to have good breakfast/ lunch
For a great interview, it’s better to have a good meal. You should have a healthy dose that can boost up your energy and confidence. Be it a healthy meal or all-time favorite comfort food, make sure to have some before you leave for the interview. You don’t want to mess up your interview due to your stomach grumbling.
5. Talk to an uplifting friend
There is nothing good than the motivation and encouragement you get from a caring and uplifting family member or friend. It creates a great difference and makes you less anxious. In short, if you are bad at giving the pep talk to yourself then you have to let someone give you one.
Also read: Why You Should Send A Thank You Message After Job Interview
6. It’s just a conversation
Remind yourself that you are not on the battleground. You’ll be talking to one or two people in a conversation about your career. They won’t be grilling you entirely just like you have to answer their questions, they may have to answer yours too while representing an organization so they have to make a good impression. Just practice before-hand what you want to say about yourself, skills, abilities, and what you can offer.
Remember job interview stress is normal and important. Prepare for it and try managing it with the tips we’ve given above. Remind yourself about your value and what you are capable of, recall good achievements in your life. This will reduce the pressure that you feel. Lastly don’t forget to do these things; calm your nerves, tell yourself you’d do a great job, take a deep breath, and go for your conversation.
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