Does just the thought of a job interview make you a little bit queasy? If so, you’re not alone.
As one of Dade County’s top employment agencies, Future Force knows that most people rank “the job interview” as one of the most stressful work-related situations. After all, some interviewers have a knack for making candidates feel like they’re sitting in front of a firing squad.
While the very nature of the job interview means it’s going to be stressful (you’re going to be asked a lot of questions about your background and ultimately judged by your answers), there are a few anxiety-easing techniques you can use in your next job interview that can help bring down the stress level a few notches. Here’s a look:
#1. Do some digging.
Do your research on the company, the industry and the job opportunity. Find out all you can about challenges the company is facing and trends within the industry. Know who the key players are at the company and check out their LinkedIn profiles so you can learn about their backgrounds. The more you know, the more comfortable you will be during the job interview.
#2. Practice your answers.
There are certain questions or topics an interviewer is almost guaranteed to bring up, like your biggest accomplishments, why you think you’re a good fit and why you want to work for the company.
So practice your answers ahead of time. Keep in mind, the accomplishments you tout in one interview may be different from the ones you should promote in another, so think about those that are most relevant to the position.
That said, don’t rehearse to the point of giving canned answers; think about what you want to say ahead of time – and the key points you want to get across. Doing so will help you stay focused and deliver great answers.
#3. Plan ahead.
Do you know where the interview location is? Is there construction on the way that could cause to delays? Do you know what you’re supposed to do or whom you’re supposed to report to when you get there? Is your suit pressed and ready to wear? Do you have plenty of copies of your resume to bring with you?
These are the questions you need to answer well before the big interview day. The better you plan ahead, the smoother your day will go.
#4. Get there early.
One of the biggest stressors occurs when you’re running late. So make an effort to get to the interview early instead. Doing so will give you some time to gather your thoughts. Even if you opt to sit in the waiting area, you’ll have time to observe the work space and other employees, which can offer some telltale signs about what it’s like to work at the company.
#5. Don’t worry about being perfect.
No candidate is going to be perfect – and that includes you. And employers aren’t looking for perfection, so there’s no point in striving to be completely flawless. Instead, aim to deliver convincing answers, ask thoughtful questions and make a professional and positive first impression.
And if you need more career help, give Future Force a call. As one of Dade County’s top employment agencies, we can give you the inside scoop on acing your interview and getting hired at some of the area’s leading companies. Contact us today if you’re ready to get started.