How to overcome anxiety before an interview

There is rarely anyone who does not experience anxiety and nervousness before an interview. And it is perfectly ok to feel anxious- it is indication that you want to do well and ace the interview. But, it is important to harness and channelize all the nervous energy to gear up for the interview.

Here are 5 tips to manage the anxiety before an interview

1.Preparation is key
One of the keys to feeling ready and confident for an interview is to prepare, prepare and prepare. Anticipate all possible questions, prepare your responses and practice them. Put yourself in the interviewer’s position and think of all the questions that might be important for him. Also, think of the key points(your strengths & skills) which you would like to communicate during the interview and how you will convey it when responding to the interviewer’s questions.

2.Shift your Attitude
An interview puts all of us under stress, we feel judged during the interview and would look at ourselves as an failure if we didn’t make it. However, a shift in perspective might help to relax and face an interview more calmly. What if you could look at the interview as an opportunity to meet new people, understand what their company is doing and their plans for the future. Also, look at the interview as a platform to talk about yourself- your experiences, skills, knowledge, hopes and aspirations. This takes the stress out of the experience. Once you shift your perspective about the interview, it will go a long way in easing anxiety.

3.Visualize a positive outcome.
Visualize  yourself in the interview making a great impression. Paint a vivid picture to yourself.
Feel a boost of confidence. Strong positive visualization accompanied with preparation can go a long way in overcoming anxiety.

4.Invest in personal Grooming
A sharp appearance shows that you are poised, polished and prepared. Your prospective employer should see that you have taken the interview seriously and have taken care to look your best. But, most importantly, personal grooming gives you the confidence and a sense of preparedness when attending an interview.

5.Tools to overcome anxiety
Try getting rid of the nervous energy by investing in some physical activity like a jog in the park or a workout at the gym. Or you could try meditating to feel more focussed and calmer. You could also get rid of your scattered thoughts by journaling.

A good interview demands preparation and a chance to put your best self forward to a prospective employer. Try these tips and face the interview with a calm and cool mind!