How to Ace an Interview This December

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No matter how many interviews you have attended, the thought of sitting in front of a panel of strangers and answering questions about your career can be nerve-wracking. Even the most confident individuals can turn to jelly at the thought of a job interview. The physical symptoms of nerves, such as sweaty palms, dry mouth and racing heartbeat, are the result of adrenalin. When we find ourselves in stressful situations, our bodies respond with a fight or flight adrenalin rush. Of course, neither of those options is suitable if you want to secure the job of your dreams. Our hints and tips can help you keep calm during an interview.

Prepare, Prepare, Prepare: Rather than sitting worrying about the interview, prepare for the questions that may arise. Taking action can help you feel that you have some control of the situation, which can reduce your stress levels. Find out all you can about the company. Browse their website and read their company literature, such as annual reports, business plans and marketing leaflets. This will help you to understand some of the key issues that it is facing.

Take time to think back over your career and recall the situations that you are most proud of. These are the examples that you should have in the front of your mind to illustrate the answers you give at interview. If you are concerned about forgetting some of the information you may need, make notes. There is nothing to stop you taking your notebook into the interview and referring to your notes if your mind goes blank. Having notes with you will demonstrate to the interview panel that you have done your homework.

A practice interview can help to hone your skills and calm your nerves. Use the services of an essential personnel consultant who can take you through a mock interview and give you feedback to improve your interview skills.

Check Your Route: Arriving in a rush can increase your anxiety levels. Before the interview, find out exactly where you need to go and plan your route. Give yourself plenty of time to allow for any transport delays.

Get an Early Night: The night before the interview, have a quiet evening and be sure to get a good night’s sleep. Consider relaxing in a warm bath, reading a book or watching a movie. Avoid numbing your pre-interview nerves with alcohol. This could interfere with your sleep pattern, leaving you tired in the morning. You do not want to turn up at the interview looking bleary-eyed or nursing a hangover.

Relaxation Techniques: While you are sitting in the reception area waiting to be called, use deep breathing techniques to help you relax. Breathe in for a count of seven and out for a count of eleven.

In the Interview: Sit back in your chair, smile at the panel and make eye contact as you answer the questions. This will give you an air of confidence. Take you time to answer each question. Do not feel that you need to immediately fill the silence.

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Author Bio:Steven Pearson is a recruitment specialist. He enjoys sharing his interview techniques online through blogging.

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