How to use nerves to your advantage

To make an interview process pleasurable for both sides, the secret lies in creating a sense of relaxation and establishing rapport.

This should arise naturally from the knowledge you’ve acquired in advance, and the confidence that knowledge automatically gives you, but inevitably the pressure of an interview situation can still lead to nerves which will obscure all the good work you’ve put in.

I interview a lot of people, and the majority of them are nervous; they’re avoiding eye contact, they’re stuttering and they’re getting their words mixed up. When I spot these nerves, the first thing I ask is “Are you nervous?” to which the majority of people will admit that yes, they are feeling a little tense. The good thing about this is, at least it’s out of the open. The interviewee will experience a sense of relief admitting their nerves.

As an experienced interviewer, the trick is to let the candidates mind wander off from the current situation for a split second. Usually, I’ll completely change the subject and always add a gentle touch of humour. I do this so I can really work you out. If I just began interviewing you from the get go, your nerves are distinguishing who you are, and I’m struggling to evaluate you.

I need to know about you, but your nerves are creating a shield. I’m in danger of picking up the wrong message. Do I think any less of you because you’re nervous? No, I don’t.

I think this is a really important message, because your display of nervous tells me you care. Generally, when people are nervous in a job interview it’s because they really want the job. Obviously, all candidates set out with the aim of hiding their nerves, but I notice them it’s not a bad thing.

What I’m trying to say is, don’t crumble. Don’t feel you’ve failed. It’s part of human behaviour. Don’t be disconcerted by it. If it happens, just deal with it. If you feel flustered, you can always ask the interviewer to give you a moment to think and buy yourself more time.

Remember that we're all human, and we've all been there. Every interviewer is hoping that you will be the successful candidate, so that they can finish the recruitment process. With that in mind, remember that the interviewer is on your side.