Calming Interview Anxiety

Calming Interview Anxiety

Interviewing for a new role can be very stressful and cause some anxiety. Meeting new people, feeling nervous about your experience and qualifications, as well as uncertainty about the outcome of the interview can all be nerve-wracking. If you are going through this process here are some tips to calm your interview-related anxiety.

Arrive early. If the interview is in person, arriving at least 20 minutes early will help you feel less rushed and give you a minute to regroup. You don’t have to enter the building but having a few extra minutes to yourself can be helpful. Also, this helps to ensure that even if you run into traffic or any unexpected travel delays, you won’t be rushed.

Have interview notes prepared. Make yourself a one-page sheet that includes anything that could be helpful in the process. The sheet could include any reminders of skills or experiences that you would like to highlight, notes about the company, questions you would like to ask, or anything else that will help you feel more prepared.

Eliminate distractions. Whether your interview is virtual or in-person, eliminate distractions by turning off your phone, clearing your mind, and being present for the interview.

Be prepared. Research the company, have questions on hand, and pick out your outfit in advance. Doing these things will help you feel more relaxed.

Memorize your resume. The interviewer is likely to bring up items from your resume so know your background. Make sure that you are prepared to answer any questions about your skills or experience without having to look at your resume.