Controlling your nerves in an interview.

Controlling your nerves in an interview
It may be comforting to know that feeling anxious before an interview is common and not necessarily a bad thing...
Your nerves will produce adrenaline,and if channelled effectively, it can boost your motivation, enthusiasm and even confidence levels!
But if you feel your nerves are hightened to a level beyond this and is affecting your performance, try the following...
Research and Preperation
As we have previously emphasised, preperation is key for succcess! Practicing questions and knowing the company’s history will not only impress the interviewer but also make you feel and sound more confident and natural when answering questions.
Stay Positive
It’s pointless going to your interview in a negative frame of mind. Remember you are there because the interviewer saw potential in your application and wants to know more! This is your chance to prove yourself.
Stay Positive
Have a “pep talk” with yourself or read your favourite motivational messages to increase your levels of self-belief before the day. Why not change the background of your phone to your favourite positive message prior to your interview? A constant reminder may help maintain a positive mindset.
Visualise Success
This mental exercise where you focus on imagining your desired performance in a high-pressure situation such as an interview reduces anxiety and improves your performance according to studies.
Visualise Success
As the brain finds it difficult to differentiate between Memory and imagination, repeating how you would like your interview to go will ultimately become a reality!
Visualise Success
To try this exercise you will need to get comfortable, close your eyes and imagine the whole process in great detail step by step. Imagine walking in confidently, answering questions like you’ve practiced and being offered the job!
Body Language
Your body language not only affects how others percieve you but also your own feelings of confidence and power. Standing with your head high and shoulders relaxed can increase your levels of confidence for example.
Body Language
Did you know that doing a “power stance” for as little as 2 minutes can instantly boost your confidence and improve your interview performance? Why not try this technique before entering next time?
Drink Water
Upon arrival, you are likely to be offered a glass of water. Even if you aren’t thirsty, kindly accept as a common side effect of feeling anxious is a dry mouth. Drinking water can also be very soothing and create feelings of relaxation.
Drink Water
Tip- If faced with a challenging question, buy some time by taking a sip of water to think of the perfect answer!
Time
Make sure you plan your trip and arrive at least 10 minutes early. Being late will increase your nerves unnecessarily. Take your time and try some breathing exercises before entering the building to compose yourself and make a great first impression.
Time
It’s natural to rush while feeling under pressure but remember an interview is not a race! It’s ok to take a few seconds to gather your thoughts before answering a challenging question.
Good luck!
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