Interview anxiety for many candidates is similar to public speaking anxiety and the pressure can be overwhelming. As a candidate you are trying to sell yourself to an audience and impress them with your skill set and qualifications. Preparation helps reduce the fear of an interview so there are different steps a candidate should take in preparing for an interview.
So, you managed to score that initial interview you have been anxiously awaiting. Perhaps your mind is spinning or you have butterflies in your stomach, either way if you are human it is normal to have interview anxiety. There are a few simple steps to follow so you can conquer an interview successfully with little to no anxiety.
Prepare! Make sure you have researched the organization, the people and the culture of the business. Try to find out as much as possible so you can have a clear conversation about the organization with the interviewer. They will like the idea that you did your homework and that you are showing initiative. Always anticipate likely questions and develop excellent answers. Anxiety is due in part to feeling out of control. In order to regain a sense of control, you must anticipate and develop your answers. Practicing your speed and response will help you feel a sense of control. Rehearse questions and answers with a friend or family member. Make sure to speak confidently and clearly. Include “talking points” or information about yourself that you want to convey (www.yourofficecoach.com). Then you can include the “talking points” periodically through the interview when an opportunity arises.
Remember to think of the interview as a conversation. Try to be personable and show personality but keep the conversation at a professional level and answer all the questions clearly and concise. Think of the individual as an equal rather than a superior, this will help relax your nerves and bring you into a comfort zone.
Dress for success. You only have one chance to make a great first impression. I would rather overdress than underdressed. Plus when you dress professionally you feel professional and confidence exudes from you. According to experts, the rule of thumb is to wear a suit if you get your own office. At BanyanBrown we tell most of our candidates to wear a suit to an interview for that “excellent first impression” no matter the position or job title. If you choose not to wear a suit, men must wear slacks, dress shirt and tie while women have a bit more flexibility as long as the outfit is professional and business attire. Part of dressing with success includes smiling, confidence as well as proper manners and etiquette. Again, you want to stand out, for good reasons and really impress the individual or panel you are meeting with.
Another way to reduce the stress of an upcoming interview, visit the location. If you are not familiar with the business driving to the location of the interview will help eliminate any fears of getting lost or being late.
It’s interview day! You are prepared for likely questions as well as “talking points” you are familiar with the location of the interview. Relax on the drive, practice your answers, and think positive. In the long run, your goal is to showcase yourself as the right professional in a positive, self confident manner. Remember to bring a fresh copy or copies of your resume depending on the style of interview. Make the interview a discussion rather than a Q and A format. This will help ease some of the anxiety you are experiencing. Most importantly, be yourself and give it your best. Remember the organization wants to make sure you are a high caliber employer but more importantly a good person and the right fit for their team.
By: Meghan Harlem, Account Executive at BanyanBrown Solutions, Inc.
