How to Prepare for an Interview

In the last article of this series, we discussed three different ways to increase our skill set during the job application process. So, now that we are scheduling interviews, whether virtual or in-person, how do we reduce the anxiety and stress we get right before? This week, we will focus on two simple tasks that can help you feel prepared. 

Prepare for the Interview 

If an outcome leads us to be financially stabled, our anxiety and stress levels may increase when we are uncertain of the result. Although you will not know right after the interview if you will get hired, you can help reduce our anxiety and stress levels before the interview to boost your confidence and increase your chance to have a successful interview. 

Reduce Uncertainties 

Before you go to an interview, you have an idea of how it is going to go. Going to an interview is not your first rodeo. However, in the back of your mind, millions of questions are coming up. What if I get lost finding parking and the building? What if I can't answer one of their questions? What if they ask me to complete an on-site test to see my skills? These "what if" questions can increase your anxiety and stress levels. Reduce uncertainties you control and do your research. 

You should research the company. Researching the company is an integral part of preparing for the interview because it lets you know the location you will drive to and your potential employer's atmosphere. Companies are following trends and utilizing most social media platforms or starting company blogs. They are sharing their company culture and facts about their industry. You can learn about the company's tone and personality and what they value. It also gives you talking points you may utilize during the interview to steer the conversation towards your qualifications to impress the hiring manager and boost your confidence. 

You should also research the role and review the job description. It is essential to refresh the employer's job description to remember the qualifications, qualities, and background the employer is looking for in their ideal candidate. You can also search for similar roles to see similarities and find reviews of others who have had the same job responsibilities. This research will prepare you with thoughtful, targeted questions about the position during the interview and ensure that you're genuinely qualified and trained to tackle the duties if you get the job. 

Practice the S.T.O.P Method

According to executive coach Chris Charyk, the S.T.O.P Method is a tool you may use to approach any stressful situation. This tool can help reduce your stress and anxiety levels while driving to the interview or waiting in the lobby, whether in person or virtual. The method stands for the following: 

• Stop what you’re doing and focus on your thoughts 

• Take a few deep breaths 

• Observe what’s going on in your body, emotions, and mind, and why you’re feeling them 

• Proceed with an intention to incorporate what you observed in your actions. 

The S.T.O.P Method allows you to slow down and acknowledge your surroundings. Similarly, Amy Cuddy's book, Presence: Bringing your Boldest Self to Your Biggest Challenges, also acknowledges your surroundings and body language. Presence is the state of being attuned and comfortably expressing your true thoughts, feelings, values, and potential. It is not a permanent but transcendent mode of being. The S.T.O.P. Method gives you four easy steps to be present and focus on the "now" rather than the "after." This technique reminds you that you have the power to banish your fears, doubts, and nerves in even the most pressure-cooker situations because it is only temporary. 

If you are still feeling anxious and nervous after following these two steps, it is okay. Do not forget that the hiring manager asked you to come into an interview for a reason. You have the skills and accomplishments to ace the job. Now remind yourself why you are the best person for the job and prove that to the hiring manager. Think positively and be confident. Next week we will move to Tackle Interview Questions to get some tips on answering questions recruiters or the hiring managers may throw your way.