Embracing Calm: Understanding and Managing Interview Nerves!

In much the same way that a tranquil beach walk can soothe the mind and restore inner balance, finding your calm before an interview can transform anxiety into a sense of readiness.

The image of a person walking their dog by the ocean embodies this idea perfectly—a moment of peace amidst life's pressures. Just as this serene scene invites relaxation, so too can we approach the challenges of an interview with calm and confidence. Let’s explore how to embrace this tranquility and manage interview nerves effectively.

Imagine the serenity of a summer morning or the peacefulness of a holiday retreat. These moments of calm can be the key to managing the nerves that often accompany job interviews.

Did you know that around 70% of job seekers describe finding a job as one of life’s most stressful experiences? It’s not just about writing a CV or preparing for an interview; it’s about maintaining your composure throughout the entire process.

The journey to a new job can be layered with stress, from tailoring your CV and cover letter for each application to completing personality tests, participating in group interviews, and delivering presentations. Each step can be anxiety-inducing, but interviews often provoke the most tension. In that moment, it’s just you and your potential employer—no buffer, no shield. But what if you could approach this challenge with the same calm you feel on a peaceful nature walk?

Why Do We Get Interview Nerves?

The anxiety you feel is your body’s natural response to a challenging situation. Much like the fight-or-flight response our ancestors experienced when facing wild animals, your body floods with adrenaline to prepare you. But instead of confronting a tiger, you’re facing a different kind of challenge—a conversation that could shape your future.

While these nerves are natural, they can be managed—just like finding your breath in the cool breeze of a forest or the rhythmic pulse of ocean waves. By understanding the science behind your nerves, you can harness them and turn them into positive energy during your interview.

Common Symptoms of Interview Nerves:

·???????? Shortness of breath

·???????? Blushing

·???????? Feeling flustered

·???????? Stomach discomfort

·???????? Brain fog

·???????? Shaky hands

·???????? Sweating

·???????? Cold or clammy palms

Just as you would prepare for a hike by packing the right gear, you can prepare for your interview by managing these symptoms.

Lets discuss some Tips to Stay Calm:

Schedule a Morning Interview or a time of day with the least distractions

Much like the early morning light energises the day, an earlier interview can help you avoid the buildup of anxiety. Choose a time that allows for stress-free preparation.

Take a Pre-Interview Walk

If you live near the sea, a walk along the coastline can work wonders. Inhale as the waves come in, exhale as they recede. If you’re not near the ocean, visualise a serene beach scene to calm your mind before the interview.

Prepare Like Planning a Holiday

Research the company and interviewers in advance, much like planning your holiday itinerary. Create a “cheat sheet” with key company facts, notes about the interviewer, directions, potential questions, and your key skills. Choose your outfit well in advance—think of it as packing for a trip.

Plan a Post-Interview Reward

Just as you look forward to a beach day after a busy workweek, plan something enjoyable after your interview. Whether it’s a massage, a favorite meal, or a workout, having something to look forward to can shift your mindset from stress to excitement.

Engage in Pre-Interview Exercise

Exercise—whether it’s a brisk walk or yoga—can clear your mind and release endorphins, similar to the invigorating feeling after a swim. Even some stretching and deep breathing can help manage adrenaline.

Practice Positive Affirmations

Like soaking in the warmth of the sun, positive affirmations can brighten your outlook. Repeating phrases like “I am perfectly qualified for this job” or “I will impress my interviewer” can set a positive tone for the day.

On the Day of the Interview:

Eat a Balanced Breakfast. Start your day with a nutritious meal that fuels your body and mind, much like a hearty breakfast before a day of exploring.

Avoid Overstimulating Drinks

Just as too much sun can cause discomfort, too much caffeine can overstimulate your nerves. Opt for herbal teas or water with lemon to stay hydrated and focused.

Listen to Soothing Music

Create a playlist that starts with energising tunes and transitions to calming melodies. Let the music be your companion, like the gentle sounds of nature on a morning walk.

Keep Perspective

Remember, everyone experiences nerves before an interview. The interviewers know this and are rooting for you, just as you would cheer on a friend. They’ve invited you because they see potential—take a deep breath and remember that you belong there.

Use the AWARE Technique:

?? Accept your nervousness—it’s as natural as feeling a breeze.

?? Watch your anxiety from a distance, like observing clouds in the sky.

?? Act to reduce it with breathing techniques, mimicking the steady inhale and exhale of ocean waves.

?? Repeat these steps until you feel more at ease.

?? Expect the best, just as you would anticipate a beautiful sunset.

During the Interview:

Shift Your Perspective

Remember, an interview is a conversation, not an interrogation. The interviewers are simply getting to know you, like new friends around a campfire.

Use Empowering Body Language

Smile, keep your shoulders back, and sit with a straight posture. These actions signal to your brain that you’re in control.

Listen and Respond Calmly

Take a moment to breathe before answering questions. Let your thoughts flow like a gentle stream, avoiding the rush. If you need time, ask to come back to the question.

Redirect Tough Questions

If unsure about a question, calmly steer the conversation toward a related topic you’re comfortable with. Practice this skill, much like rehearsing a new route on a familiar trail.

Use Positive Body Language

Even if your words feel shaky, open body language—like sitting forward or using your hands when speaking—communicates confidence.

Final Thoughts

Interviewing, like embarking on an adventure, can be challenging. But by planning ahead, preparing thoroughly, and taking care of your well-being, you can harness your nerves and let them work for you. Approach your interview with the calm confidence of someone who has just returned from a rejuvenating holiday, ready to show potential employers that you’re the perfect fit for the role.

Take the Next Step

As you prepare for your next interview, remember that your nerves are not a weakness but a sign that you care about the opportunity ahead. By embracing calm and implementing the strategies we've discussed, you can transform that nervous energy into confidence and clarity.

We’d Love to Hear From You

How do you manage your interview nerves? Do you have a go-to strategy that helps you stay calm and collected? ??Share your thoughts and tips with us—we’d love to hear from you!

Remember, every interview is a learning experience. Approach it with the calm and confidence of someone ready to succeed—and know that we’re cheering you on!

Stay calm, stay confident, and keep moving forward.

Feel free to share this newsletter with anyone who might find it helpful.? If you need a hand with your recruitment? -? email me at [email protected] -- check out our web site www.fintecrecruit.co.uk

I'm here to help!

Until next time -? Warm regards,

Audrey