If there’s one thing all college students dread it’s thinking about their futures. With this comes the interviewing process, which is just downright scary, especially when a company can determine your fate in one single conversation. Internships and jobs are constantly on the lookout for those who bring their true selves to the table, but this is usually easier said than done.
Here are five tips to overcome interview anxiety and be the best version of yourself you can possibly be when the interview comes:
Visualize what you want for the future
Leading up to your interview, think about what you want to result from it. Ask yourself why you’re interviewing for a certain position and if you truly want to work for the company or organization who’s conducting the interview. In the end, this will help you make goals for yourself and for future endeavors. Also, visualize being successful and the positive aspects that could come from earning this position. By visualizing your success, you also will feel more confident going into the interview as well.
Build a strong resume and cover letter
If you want to be noticed by the company or organization that is interviewing you, you must have a strong resume and cover letter. These two documents allow employers to take a deeper look into who you are as a person, as well as your work experience and interests. They also act as physical proof of what you want to bring to the work environment, which is what employers want you to imply. If these aren’t good representations of your character, then no corporation will take you seriously.
Prepare, prepare, prepare
Do not wait until the last minute to practice potential questions that may be asked during the interview. Instead, have a friend or family member quiz you. This will allow for you to develop your answers more, as well as avoid unnecessary antidotes or fun facts about yourself. Do research as well on the job you’re applying for. The more prepared you are, the more confident you will feel going into the interview.
Release all of your anxiety beforehand
While this sounds difficult, anxiety can simply be reduced before a major or minor interview by listening to your favorite song, reading an excerpt from your favorite book or simply watching a mindless Tik Tok on your phone. If you can find a way to release this tension, your mind will be in a calmer place before you walk into that interview. By letting go of anxiety and the tension that comes with it, you will feel more at ease the closer your interview time comes.
Time is your best friend
Once the interview starts, it’s best to take your time with each response you give. There’s no point in rushing an answer, especially if this is an internship or job you really want. If you’re worried about forgetting the points you want to make in your answer, ask if you can take notes during the interview and refer to them as a reference. Let yourself stop and think for a few moments before rushing into any answer.
