Job Interview Jitters

Job interviews are stressful. There are very good reasons for anxiety and concern:

• You don’t interview every day and uncertain as to how well you will do.
• You” really” need and want this job.
• This is the only job opportunity in your pipeline.
• You’re not exactly sure about what they’re looking for or what they’re going to ask.
• You’re not comfortable “selling” yourself.
• You think you have to be all things to all people.
• You don’t know for sure if you answered the question(s) correctly.
• Fear of rejection.

Interview nervousness is a natural reaction. We all want to ace the interview. Interviewers were once candidates and expect it. But, there can be times before, during, and after an interview that nerves simply explode out of control. Like being in quicksand, the more you focus on composure, the more nervous you get.

The best remedy to get past interview fears is to demystify and understand interview process. Take control and boost your confidence by doing your homework:

• Know the company and potential interviewers.
• Investigate the job requirements and position needs.
• Understand the types of questions that are usually asked.
• Have a series of short well rehearsed accomplishment talking point stories that can be used along the way.
• Have a series of thoughtful questions for the interviewer.

Believe in yourself and your abilities. Work on your interview skills. Practice interviewing with a trusted colleague or mentor so that you can paint a clear picture as to why you are the perfect match for the position. Remember, a job interview is not an inquisition. It is an information exchange where you will be the interviewer 50% of the time.