Beating interview nerves
It doesn’t matter how many interviews we’ve been to, they can still be nerve racking and just a little bit scary, but the good news is they don’t need to be. Interviews aren’t necessarily tests; they are more a meeting between interviewer and interviewee to see how suitable the candidate is for the job role in question. The answers you give aren’t right or wrong, they simply provide information to the employer on your background and experience. And don’t forget, it is also an opportunity for you to see if you would be happy working for that company, and with those people.
Before you go to your interview, it is very important that you’re prepared. You don’t know what you’re going to be asked, but it is always a good idea to go in having a good knowledge of the company, for example their policies, values, history and vision. Most companies have a website with an “About Us” page: utilise this information as it will allow your interviewer to see you have made the effort to find out about their company.
Although you won’t know the exact questions you’ll be asked, many interviewers will want to find out about your strengths and development areas, an achievement you’re proud of and why, a time when you’ve had to work effectively in a team, and if you’ve ever had to change your way of working / how you went about this and the end result. Use search engines to find common interview questions and ask a friend to help you do a practise interview.
Before you go into your interview, practise deep breathing; in through your nose and out through your mouth. Continue to do this until you feel a calming sensation– the deep breaths you take will help to relax your entire body, ensuring you are getting enough oxygen into your system and helping to diminish the feeling of nerves. Another good tip is to run your wrists under cold water- this will cool you down instantly if you’re feeling a little hot and bothered. And don’t forget, interviewers fully expect their candidates to be a little nervous and will allow for this. A candidate who comes across as over-confident is not necessarily going to secure the role.
During your interview, try to keep your hands out in front of you; avoid folding your arms and never slouch back in the chair. Your body language will tell your interviewer a lot about you as a person. Lean forward and keep your body language “open”
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Never be scared of taking a minute to think about your answers- it is far better to reflect on the question and form a good quality answer. If you don’t understand the question, ask the interviewer to explain it again. Try to give examples of your previous experiences, avoid “woolly” answers and don’t speak too quickly. Remember to breathe! If you’re able to at the end, ask some of your own questions, although avoid asking about salary unless it is brought up by the interviewer; this is something that can be discussed if you’re offered the position.
Finally, whether you’re successful or not, it is always good practise to ask for feedback. It will help with future interviews and you will gain a better understanding of any areas you can work on.
If you would like any further info about how hypnotherapy and a Positive Thinking Styles course can help with interview nerves then please contact me on 01202 245020 or 07920885015………..In the meantime, I wish you the very best of luck with your interview.
Email:robert-clarke@live.com
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