There is really no way around it: searching for a job is stressful. The interview process is probably the most challenging aspect of the job hunt. There are many tried and true techniques to reduce your sense of panic over the first meeting with a new company. Here are several methods that you can use to help elevate your pre-interview stress.
- Visual Imagery. People have been using this meditation and relaxation technique for a very long time. Imagine yourself in a calm and serene place. Imagine yourself in your favorite place on earth. You can also imagine yourself getting the job and being successful. Each of these visualization techniques can help calm your nerves before meeting with your prospective employer.
- Positive Thinking. First, become aware of your negative thoughts. Spend some time for a few days prior to your first interview writing down your negative thoughts and tracking when they tend to creep up on you. Then determine if any of your negative thoughts are rational. Throw out the completely irrational thoughts and replace them with positive affirmations. Write your positive thoughts down and every time you find yourself slipping back toward negativity, consult your list.
- Prepare. If you reduce your level of uncertainty you will find yourself more comfortable with the process. Ask as many questions as you can before the interview such as what to expect when you get there, how many people you will be meeting with, and clarify the directions so you are less likely to get lost on the way. Spend time researching everything you can about the company to make yourself comfortable with the interview.
- Listen to music. Your favorite album always makes you feel better, right? Put on some music when you’re at home. Listen to it in the car on your way to the interview. Just sing along and don’t think about the interview for a little while.
- Physically relax. Use tried and true self-relaxation techniques to loosen your muscles and put yourself at ease. Begin at your feet and tense your muscles. Relax them slowly. Work your way up your body doing this with each group of muscles until you feel fully relaxed.
- Breathe Deep. There is no better relaxation method than breathing deeply. Inhale through your nose and count to four. Then breathe out through your mouth. Do this four or five times in a row and you will begin to feel refreshed.
- Change your line of thinking. Stop thinking of the interview as something that will challenge you. When you feel nervous, reroute your thoughts. Instead of being scared to meet the interviewer look at it as an exciting way to expand your career network. Put yourself in control. This can help you feel more confident before walking into the building for the first time.
Looking for the chance for your next interview? Contact CornerStone Staffing to see how our recruiters can help you!
