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Interview Tips - How to Deal with Job Interview Nerves

Interviews can be a walk in the park for some people and a fear for others. Wherever you are on the scale, you’re likely to experience some nerves in the lead-up to your interview, which is entirely normal. You’re just keen to get the job! The good news is that there are several things you can do before, during, and after the interview to keep those nerves at bay.

Do you struggle with nerves and anxiety ahead of an interview? These tips will help you feel prepared, confident and ready to give your best.

Interviews can be a walk in the park for some people and a fear for others. Wherever you are on the scale, you’re likely to experience some nerves in the lead-up to your interview, which is entirely normal. You’re just keen to get the job! The good news is that there are several things you can do before, during, and after the interview to keep those nerves at bay.

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Before the interview

Making sure your nerves don’t get the better of you during your interview means putting in some prep in the days leading up to your interview.

Research the company

Get a head start and research the employer ahead of your interview to gain a better understanding of their expectations.

Look out for information such as company values, updates like expansions and acquisitions, and accomplishments such as awards or new partnerships. If you know who your interviewer will be, look them up on the company website or LinkedIn – you may share a few common interests. Learning about who you’ll be meeting can help nerves during the day.

Revisit your CV and application

It’s essential to refresh your memory on what you’ve already shared with the recruiter, mainly if you’ve applied for several roles. It’s also an excellent way to remember how well-suited you are for the position. Your CV and application should have set out the essential skills and experience which make you a great candidate, so use this to reassure yourself.

Many employers will also structure the interview around your CV and application, so be ready to answer questions about your skills, qualifications and work history.

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Prepare your questions

Impress the interviewer by having insightful questions ready. You’ll usually get to ask your questions towards the end of the interview, and having a couple prepared already means you won’t have to worry about being put on the spot. You might think of some additional questions during the interview – note them down for when you get the chance to ask them.

The day before – practice & prep

Practice makes perfect, right? As part of your preparation ahead of the actual interview, you should practice how you’ll respond to tricky questions, the ways you can display your relevant skills and experience, and even your handshake.

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Ask a friend to interview you

Ask a friend for help so you can put your interview skills to the test with a mock interview. It’s a great way to build your confidence and can highlight any focus areas you need to brush up on before the real thing.

Practice using the STAR response to questions

STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result.

This technique is applied to answer behavioural-based interview questions. You are asked about previous work experiences to assess your competency for the role.

Practice structuring your responses using the STAR method to provide concrete examples and evidence that you have the skills and experience they’re asking for.

Before the interview

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  • Plan your route and outfit: This might sound obvious, but a last-minute scramble through your emails to check the interview location will not ease your nerves. Don’t assume the interview will be at Head Office – check the location carefully and plan your route, allowing extra time for traffic or public transport delays and closures. Pick out your outfit the day before – knowing that you’re going to look your best will help boost your confidence.
  • Eat a good meal: You can’t answer questions when your tummy’s rumbling. Make sure you haven’t skipped breakfast or lunch before your interview. This will help you stay focused and prevent brain fog. Don’t forget to drink plenty of water too!
  • Give yourself a pep talk: Remind yourself that you have prepped for the interview and that you are qualified for the job – you wouldn’t have been called in for the interview if you weren’t.
  • Turn your nerves into confidence: Nervousness and excitement release the same chemicals in your body - how you feel makes all the difference. When you think your nerves are acting up, take a deep breath and remind yourself that you are excited about all the good things that will happen once you get the job. Say it out loud to convince yourself if you need to.
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During the interview

It’s easy to overthink your body language, and you don’t want to come across like you’re trying too hard – but it is a good idea to think about how you come across in an interview setting. Here are three top tips:

  • Initiate the handshake: There’s no need to wait for the interviewer to initiate it – if you get the chance, go ahead first – it shows that you’re confident, excited to be there, and ready to start the interview.
  • Eye contact and body language: Maintain a good level of eye contact with all your interviewers - not enough eye contact, and you can come across as insecure or disinterested, and too much is uncomfortable. Sit up straight and avoid crossing your arms. This will show you’re approachable and energised. Rest your hands on your lap or the table, or use them to emphasise what you’re saying.
  • Smile: As you enter the interview, a big smile tells the interviewer you’re friendly and approachable. Remember, personality and culture fit are important when hiring for a role, so your potential new employer will look for a positive attitude in their candidate. Smiling also oozes confidence, and confidence tells employers you’re likely to be a strong leader, one of the top attributes employers are looking for.
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“Smile! Remember, personality and culture fit are important when hiring for a role, so your potential new employer will look for a positive attitude in their candidate.”

  • Do your homework by researching the company, reviewing your CV, and thinking about what you want from the job interview.
  • Ask a friend to help you practice for the interview.
  • Give yourself a pep talk and focus on a positive outcome.
  • Use positive body language and eye contact to engage with your interviewers, and don’t forget to smile.

The tips above will help you build confidence and create a great impression in the interview.

Good luck!

If you need help with your CV, or to find out about our latest roles, contact your local Adecco branch and connect with a recruiter today!

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