Ten Ways to Combat Pre-Interview Anxiety

Getting the jitters before a job interview is not uncommon. Some anxiety is actually a good thing. Adrenaline gives you more energy, makes you more alert, and engages your cognitive faculties.

But when anxiety threatens to impair your performance, you need to take steps to release it.

Here are a few tips to help you stay calm before a job interview:

Prepare.

Research the company and the position, and practice answering common interview questions. This will help you feel more confident and in control.

Get organized.

Make sure you have all the necessary documents and information ready for the interview. Make sure you have the proper attire, and lay it out the night before so you don’t have to rush the next day.

Plan ahead.

Arrive at the location early to avoid feeling rushed, and to give yourself time to relax.

Take care of yourself.

Make sure you are well-rested, well-fed, and dressed appropriately for the interview.

Practice relaxation techniques.

Take deep breaths, do some stretching exercises, or meditate to help calm your nerves. Deep breathing is especially effective at calming people down.

Stay positive.

Try to focus on the things you have to offer, rather than dwelling on potential negative outcomes.

Be yourself.

 Remember that the interviewer wants to get to know you, so try to be authentic and true to yourself during the interview.

Create a positive mindset.

Try to think positively and remind yourself that you are well-prepared and have the skills and qualifications to do well in the interview.

Visualize.

Visualize a successful interview in your mind. Picture yourself arriving and greeting the hiring manager and making a good impression on everyone. Then visualize the interview and answer questions flawlessly.

Chew gum.

This can also calm jitters. However, you want to be careful that the people interviewing you don’t know that you have gum because it’s not a good look for an interview.

Avoid stimulants.      

If you are anxious before an interview, drinking coffee or some other caffeinated beverage will only heighten your anxiety, so save them until after the interview.

Talk to the insurance recruitment experts at Insurance Relief.

If you are an insurance professional, it is in your best interest to partner with a staffing expert that understands your unique skills and needs. Insurance Relief is that expert, with vast experience in the insurance industry. Insurance Relief works with brokers, carriers, and third-party administrators to locate and place the best people for positions in the industry ranging from entry-level to senior management. We invest the time to really understand what you want to accomplish and then work our hardest to find you meaningful opportunities. Give Insurance Relief a call today.