What is the parallel between a first date and a job interview?
You never know what awaits you, and you’re afraid of rejection!
So it’s no surprise that both cases frequently cause stage fright. But let’s stick to the one related to the job interview.
You’ll likely be somewhat edgy, whether it’s your first-ever or a crucial interview. Psyche may not speak in so many words but must express its sensations. Answering the hiring manager’s questions and presenting yourself is a step into the unknown. And uncertainty is bound to cause some anxiety. Plus, the ego never sleeps, does it? The rejection is alwaysl a bummer, even if you aren’t highly interested in the position you applied for.
Assume you believe you lack experience for the position you seek. Naturally, you’ll try to hide your shortcomings behind compelling responses to the recruiter’s questions. But that doesn’t mean you won’t be on pins and needles.
Luckily, you can eliminate or at least reduce this type of discomfort. And here’s how you go about it.
- Investigate the Position and the Company in Depth
The last thing you want to do is make a wrong first impression. And the only way to avoid it is to be acquainted with the job description and company values. Visit their official website, LinkedIn profile, or Instagram account. This will also inform you about the company’s current affairs and make you appear genuinely interested in the company’s culture. Furthermore, thoroughly understanding your future role allows you to anticipate questions that may be posed to you. That way, you get a head start on preparing answers, which boosts your self-confidence and alleviates anxiety in the face of uncertainty.
- Take a Mock Interview With Friends
To overcome stage fright, you must own the stage. So, suppose you’ve already prepared an introduction about yourself and preliminary responses to the most common questions. In that case, it’s time to put them into practice. Have a recruiter-candidate role-play with your friends. This way, you can assess which questions you can answer more accurately and pay attention to your tone of voice. Another excellent way to boost your confidence before an interview is to use the Fake Interview platform, which allows you to practice with experts in your industry and receive feedback on your performance. Whatever path you choose, remember that practice makes perfect!
- Spend Some Time Balancing Your Breathing
Rapid heartbeat and shallow, accelerated breathing are symptoms of anxiety. In an interview, if you allow yourself to come off that way, it will show in your demeanor, pronunciation, and tone of voice. Therefore, a few minutes before the interview, slow down and focus on breathing. Try to take deep, slow breaths in and even more profound, slower breaths out. You will notice that your heart rate has returned to normal, that you are calmer, and that you can think more clearly after just a few of these breaths. Using this technique, you’ll be able to unwind and cope more easily with the conversation’s unpredictability.
- Embrace a Positive Self-Image
No, that doesn’t imply that you must research Louise Hay’s writing. When you struggle to believe you are the right candidate for the job, telling yourself you are great two minutes before the interview won’t lend a hand. Try this instead. Set up an environment that makes you feel good. It can involve doing things like drinking coffee, going for a quick walk, taking a relaxing bath, or listening to your favorite music. It also works to visualize yourself getting the job offer. This technique puts you in a state of positivity and tranquility where your brain will receive all the oxygen it needs to undertake your goal, not artificially cultivate confidence.
However, practicing body language and self-confirmation will be effective if talking to yourself in the mirror usually works for you. Just find your cup of tea and go for it!
- Align Your Body Language With Your Words
Speaking of mirrors, they can assist with overcoming stage fright. According to some statistics, the first minute and a half are the most important, during which more than 30% of recruiters make their final assessment of the candidate. How much can you say in such a short time that is crucial? Not much, in fact. However, your demeanor, gestures, and eye contact convey far more than words. So, to ensure that your appearance doesn’t undermine your professionalism, practice your presentation in front of a mirror and assess whether you appear relaxed and confident. At the same time, remember that a few smiles and friendly facial expressions are a big plus!
What is the new analogy between a first date and a job interview?
When you’ve mastered and applied these five techniques for eliminating stage fright, you’ll have no fear of uncertainty or rejection because you’ll know you did your best!