Entering the job market can be daunting, but with the right preparation and anxiety-control techniques, you can present yourself with confidence. Discover practical tips for managing stress before, during, and after interviews to help you secure your dream job.
It’s a new year, and many are looking to change careers or land a better job. In this article, Adenike Baderin shares practical tips that help manage stress during interviews, ensuring you present yourself professionally and confidently. Regardless of the kind of interview—virtual or in-person—confidence and thorough preparation are your greatest tools. Use these strategies to stay composed and secure the job you’ve been aiming for.
General anxiety management tips
Prepare thoroughly
A bit of planning can eliminate unnecessary anxiety. If you aren’t prepared, no doubt, you’ll be anxious. Conduct thorough research about the company, its culture, and the role you’re applying for. Research the latest product or service the organisation offers. Understanding the organisation’s culture and services will boost your confidence. Practice answering common interview questions, record yourself or conduct mock interviews to refine your responses.
Practice deep breathing
Use calming breathing exercises to settle your nerves before the interview. Try the 4-4-4 technique: inhale for four counts, hold your breath for four counts, and then exhale for four counts.
Virtual interview tips
As 67% of recruiters reportedly plan to continue using video interviews even after pandemic restrictions ease, virtual interviews may seem convenient, but they bring unique challenges. With the right preparation, you can ace them just as you would a physical interview.
Set up your space
For a virtual interview, it is best to choose a quiet, distraction-free spot. You may feel anxious if your interview spot is susceptible to distractions like noise or interruptions. Also, test your technology and devices. It’s a no-brainer—if your internet connection is unstable, your anxiety level will increase because your thoughts will be centred on how your interviewer perceives you.
Make eye contact
If you are nervous about making eye contact, don’t worry too much. Fix your gaze on the camera of your device to create the impression of making eye contact with your interviewer.
Stay calm and professional during glitches
If technical difficulties arise, address them calmly. Politely inform the interviewer and reconnect as quickly as possible. Staying composed under pressure shows professionalism.
I had a virtual interview once, and unfortunately, the network went off for a while. In my nervous state, I placed my hands on my head and started muttering to myself. Unfortunately for me, the network was restored, my interviewer saw me in this state, and my anxiety went through the roof. Avoid my mistakes by staying composed. A simple “I’m sorry for the disruption; spare me a moment to reconnect” is enough.
Physical interview tips
In-person interviews require slightly different preparation, but the principles of staying calm and professional remain the same.
Engage with your environment
Pay attention to the surroundings and the people you meet. Acclimatising to the ambience of the environment can put you at ease. A quick, friendly conversation with reception staff or others in the office can help soothe your nerves.
Be punctual
If you arrive late to your interview session—physical or virtual—you may feel flustered or inadequate. Beat this by ensuring you arrive at least 30 minutes early for a physical interview. For virtual interviews, join using the meeting link a few minutes before the session begins.
Show confident body language
Smile, maintain a good posture, and embrace a positive demeanour to reduce stress and project confidence. Holding a smile on one’s face during periods of stress may help the heart. Always remember: to have made it to the interview stage says a lot about your efforts. Be calm and professional. You’ve got this.
