Let’s just face it: job interviews are scary. No matter how many times you’ve done it before, it’s just frightening to sit in a lobby full of people who are looking to fill a position that you so desperately want. It can also be rather uncomfortable to talk (and brag) about yourself for hours on end in front of said people. As I continue my process in finding a job after graduation, I have learned a few things that make job interviews much more bearable.
1. Take a DEEP Breath
I usually show up to interviews at least a half hour early. While this same seem a little excessive to some, I use my first 15 minutes in my car to go over potential interview questions and calm my nerves. I often take five minutes to just breathe and visualize myself nailing the interview. This gives me enough confidence to leave my car and strut into the interview room.
2. Smile
This may seem weird, but before an interview, I smile at myself in the mirror. A LOT. This helps fight the nerves and gives you a chance to practice smiling those pearly whites at your potential employers. When you walk into an interview, it’s so important to remember to SMILE! Employers really appreciate interacting with a confident, friendly and SMILING candidate.
3. Research, Research, Research
Before an interview, do everything possible to learn more about the company. Go on their website, talk to current employees and try to memorize their mission statement. Employers really like when a candidate knows a lot about the company BEFORE even being hired for the job. It shows passion and excitement about the opportunity and that you’re willing to work hard for the position.
4. Practice with a Friend
First sit down and write out any potential questions that could be brought up in the interview. I then find it helpful to write out my answers to these exact questions and study my responses. Finally, have a friend quiz you on some of the questions. That way, you have practice verbally answering these interview questions and can critique your answers to perfection. I found this extremely helpful since I am a much better written communicator and often get tongue-tied during the actual interview. It’s much easier to respond to questions you have already answered out loud.
5. Be Patient and Keep Trying
It’s very disappointing to receive rejection after amping yourself up for a job interview. However, its important to pick yourself back up and continue your search for another position quickly. It’s intimidating to put yourself out there, but don’t beat yourself if the first interview doesn’t land you an offer. As scary as job interviews can be, it’s exciting to see where you may end up and all of the endless possibilities in front of you. Keep going my fellow Warriors, because the post-grad life is almost here!
