If you’re like most people, the initial excitement of securing an interview may soon be replaced by pre-interview jitters and anxiety. Give yourself every advantage by properly preparing for the experience.
Follow these steps to help ease your worries and get back to feeling excited about your interview:
1) Research : know yourself, the company and the position. Be confident you can clearly communicate why you are interested in this position with this company.
2) Use LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Google News to look for current work projects and professional interests of interviewers. Seek common interests that could help you connect with your interviewers.
3) Be aware of your internet presence – create a positive presence by posting pictures of yourself participating in community events and leadership activities. List goals and achievements on social media profiles.
4) Practice, practice, practice! The best way to achieve high professionalism and relaxation is through structured practice: do a mock interview.
5) Do a dry run –know where you are going and how long it will take to get there.
6) Plan your interview outfit.
7) Print 3 copies of your resume and a list of references on quality resume paper to bring to the interview.
8) Get a good night’s sleep.
9) Deal with the nervousness:
- Be conscious of fidgeting and other distracting, non-verbal behaviors.
- Practice relaxation techniques before the interview.
- If you use smoking as a stress reliever – don’t do so before your interview – make sure your clothes do not smell like cigarette smoke.
- Be aware how you manifest stress (sweaty palms? – bring a handkerchief)
- Have good posture.
- Project confidence even if you don’t feel it!
10) Arrive 10 minutes early to your interview.
Have a great interview!