How to Overcome Job Interview Anxiety

Let’s face it, interviews are make-or-break moments during the job search process. Job interviews can be a stressful and nerve-wracking experience for many people. It’s natural to feel anxious when you’re being evaluated for a position that could potentially impact your career and livelihood. However, excessive job interview anxiety can be debilitating and could potentially harm your chances of getting the job. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some strategies you can use to overcome job interview anxiety and improve your chances of success.

Prepare Thoroughly

Have you ever heard the saying, “A pinch of prevention is worth a pound of cure?” One of the most effective ways to overcome job interview anxiety is to be well-prepared. This means researching the company and the position you’re applying for, practicing your responses to common interview questions, and rehearsing your body language and tone of voice. The more you prepare, the more confident and relaxed you’ll feel during the interview.

Preparation Tips:

• Have your resume right in front of you.
• Have the job description and identify:
  • Skills you're 110% confident in.
  • Skills that make you anxious — prepare examples, challenges, and improvements.
  • Print the job posting and annotate it with key strengths, challenges, and past experiences.
• Research the company online and how you fit into it:
  • Research the product or service
  • Research the specific role
  • Research the company culture
• Contact the employer/recruiter beforehand and ask:
  • Who will be interviewing me?
  • What is the format of the interview?
  • What is the interview going to be focused on?
  • Is there anything you suggest I prepare for?
• You’ll be able to have a better sense and be able to prepare effectively to the best of your ability.

Visualize Success

I know this one might be a little “new-age” for some of you but stay with me. Visualization is a powerful tool that can help you overcome job interview anxiety. Imagine yourself walking into the interview room feeling calm, confident, and prepared. Visualize yourself answering questions with ease, making a positive impression on the interviewer, and ultimately getting the job. This positive visualization can help you build confidence and reduce anxiety.

Shift your focus

Negative thoughts and self-doubt can exacerbate job interview anxiety. Challenge these thoughts by reminding yourself of your strengths and accomplishments. Focus on the skills and experiences that make you a strong candidate for the position, and avoid dwelling on your perceived weaknesses.
I think a lot of people, their worst nightmare is to get asked a question that they just don’t have an answer for. It’s okay to say, “Oh, I don’t know, but I’m really interested to learn more about that.” You should never lie, because it’ll definitely show. Or there’ll be people that yes, you could be nervous and be like, “Unfortunately, I do not have experience in that area of practice at this time or with that particular database. However, I am someone that is very eager to learn. I really want to be able to implement these changes” But absolutely be honest, don’t lie.

Challenge Negative Thoughts

Instead of focusing on your anxiety, try to shift your attention to the interviewer and the conversation. Be okay with no body language, no affirmation or validation on the other side. Listen carefully to the questions and respond thoughtfully. Engage with the interviewer and try to establish a connection. By shifting your focus away from your anxiety, you’ll feel more present and engaged in the interview.