You’ve been spending hours and hours on your job search. You find jobs you feel are perfect for you and you are not getting calls for interview; then finally, the call comes and it’s your dream job. You know you have to knock it out of the part. This job would be perfect for you, it would make you more financially secure and it’s a huge step up. You start to realize how important this interview is. Your stomach is in knots on the big day, your heart is beating fast and you are starting to sweat. You really feel the pressure of how you must do well.
Interview Research
Preparing for your interview will help you to be calm and feel more confident in your abilities. Take a careful look at the job description and think through how your skills and qualifications align with the position. Research the company and the people you will be interviewing with. The more information you have, the more confident and less nervous you will be in your job interview preparation.
Mock Interview Preparation
Practice makes perfect. You may have a friend with interviewing experience. Perhaps they can give you some interview preparation tips and you can run through some questions with them. Interview practice is key. Scheduling a mock interview preparation session with someone experienced in conducting job interviews can help you have a leg up on the competition. Working with a mock job interview expert who doesn’t know you that can be objective about your interview skills and give you sound advice is priceless.
Planning Before The Big Day
Make all the relevant decisions at least a day before your job interview. What do you plan to wear on the interview, how long will it take to get there, and what questions will you ask the interviewer about the company? Print copies of your resume and your directions. Plan to give yourself extra time to get there just in case. When you arrive early, it gives you time to relax, clear your mind and get rid of some of those butterflies. Keep in mind, a little bit of nervous energy is good if you direct your energies in a positive way.
Take a Pause
During the interview, you feel a need to make the best use of the time you have with the interviewer. Having said that, there’s nothing wrong with taking a moment to pause and think through your response.
Think Positive
Imagine yourself being very relaxed, confident and nailing the interview. If they are calling you for an interview, it means they value the skills you are showcasing on your resume. Think about the interview as a two-way street. It’s an opportunity for you to learn more about the company and see if you like the people, the nature of the job and the work environment. This is also a chance for you to share what you are most proud of in terms of your accomplishments.
Interview preparation is key to calming your nerves and feeling more confident on the big day. Arriving early and trying a few relaxation techniques are a great benefit. Think about scheduling a mock interview session. This gives you an opportunity to have a practice run you can learn from without consequences. Good luck and happy interviewing.