Preparing for a job interview can be stressful. This is especially true if it has been 5, 10, or more years since you last interviewed for a job. How do you calm pre-interview nerves? What are the best ways to conquer interview nerves?
3 Proven Steps To Calm Job Interview Nerves
As an interview coach, I have learned a plethora of techniques to successfully help clients overcome pre-interview anxiety. The following are three proven ways to calm job interview nerves.
1. Celebrate your career accomplishments.
As you prepare for your big day, begin by reflecting on your career accomplishments. Developing a list of your biggest career wins can quickly calm pre-interview nerves and boost your confidence. Then, keep these accomplishments close by and frequently reference them as you navigate the interview process.
The following are a few questions to guide you in reflecting on your career accomplishments.
- What are you most proud of from your career?
- How did you save your employer money, time, and other resources?
- What’s your secret sauce?
Rather than waiting until you receive an offer letter to celebrate, I am a proponent of celebrating victories throughout the job search process. Subsequently, I advise celebrating landing interviews; receiving an interview in today’s saturated job market deserves a celebration.
2. Take time to prepare for your job interview.
One of the biggest ways to calm pre-interview nerves is to adequately prepare for your interview. Begin by practicing your elevator pitch so you are ready to answer, “Tell me about yourself?” After you feel comfortable with your pitch, record your delivery, then watch it back. Take note of the content, your pacing, and your overall executive presence.
Beyond your elevator pitch, be equipped with an answer to the popular job interview question, “What are your strengths?” Additionally, develop a handful of stories that speak to your unique value proposition. Ensure each story extends beyond a simple recap of the situation and your role. Include the specific actions you took as well as the results of your efforts. Oh, and do not forget to take time to craft questions for your interviewer.
3. Picture yourself succeeding in the interview.
Finally, visualize yourself succeeding throughout the interview process. Try on the clothes you plan to wear to the interview. Take time to sit in the interview chair and absorb the room’s surroundings. And, if you have a video interview, be sure to test your webcam.
Further, I encourage you to write out how you envision yourself performing in the interview. Here are a few questions to get you started in visualizing interview success:
- How will you calm your nerves leading up to the interview?
- How will you feel during your interview?
- What will you share with the interviewer to demonstrate your fabulousness?
A Final Note: Decreased interview nerves and increased confidence will come with practice and time. Trust the process and yourself. You’ve got this!
