Interview Stress

Right at this moment, there are students waiting in our lobby for their on-campus interviews.  I must say, they all look sharp and prepared! But how are they doing on the inside?

Interviews are tough, and not just for new grads.  Even seasoned professionals get nervous at the thought of having to talk about their experiences.  But there are things that you can do to reduce your anxiety and stress before an interview and I have listed a few for you.

• Prepare, prepare, prepare.  Many times, when we are anxious, it’s the fear of the unknown that is the cause.  You can’t anticipate every question that an interviewer will ask you, but you can prepare many examples of your skills and experiences that can be used to answer a variety of questions.  Practice taking about these experiences as much as possible.  The Career Center can help by conducting a mock interview with you. 
• Pick out your attire beforehand and lay it all out the night before. You don’t want to be rushing around that morning trying to find that one left shoe that you know is somewhere in your room.
• Know where you are going and how to get there. Don’t leave it up to your GPS.  Do a practice drive there, if possible.  Have maps with you just in case. Allow plenty of time to find parking.  These last minute stressors can negatively impact your mood going in to an interview so try to avoid them as much as you can.
• Smile during the interview! Smiles are contagious.  They work to both relax you and the interviewer. That’s right, the interviewer may be nervous, too!
• Take a deep breath! Take a moment, whether in your car or in the lobby of the building, to take a deep breath and to say to yourself “I got this!” 

The Career Center is here to help you prepare for all of your interviews!  Make an appointment by going online or calling us at 463-6060.

Good luck on your interviews!

Darlene Johnson,
Director of External Relations