English
English
SpanishIt’s only natural to feel stressed out and even a bit overwhelmed when facing a job interview. Fortunately, strong preparation coupled with purposeful breathing and mental relaxation techniques can help stop your nerves from getting the best of you. Here is what you should know.
Start with Preparation
The more prepared you are, the less anxious you will be. So start preparing for your interview as soon as you know the date and time. Research the company by reading its website, LinkedIn profile, and social media pages. Carefully read back through the job description and think about how your background and experience make you the perfect fit. Learn as much as you can about the company culture and structure, as well as its goals and objectives. While you don’t need to memorize everything, a strong familiarity will help the conversation flow more freely.
Breathing Techniques
There are several breathing techniques that can help you reduce anxiety. Try them out well in advance of your interview, and then use your favorite while you are waiting for the interview to begin.
- Abdominal Breathing: With your shoulders and jaw relaxed, inhale deeply through your nose until you feel your abdomen start to expand. Then slowly exhale through your mouth, allowing a slight “whoosh” sound to escape. Repeat several times.
- Equal Breathing: Again allowing the air to expand your abdomen, breathe in for a slow count of four, hold for just a moment, and then breathe out for an equal count of four. Repeat until you feel your anxiety lessen.
- 4-7-8 Breathing: Breathe deeply through your nose for a count of four, then hold the breath in your lungs for a count of seven. Finally, release the breath through your mouth for a count of eight. Repeat up to four times, but be cautious – this technique has been known to induce extreme drowsiness!
Mental Relaxation
One of the best ways to relieve anxiety is to intentionally change your focus. Find something in the room to look at, such as a picture or a plant, and focus your attention on it while you breathe. Another option is to use guided imagery. Close your eyes and focus on your happy place, such as your favorite park, beach, or mountain, while you use one of the breathing techniques.
Looking for a New Job?
Of course, in order to land a job interview, you first need to find a position you want. To learn how One Source Staffing can help you find the job of your dreams, take a look at our job board and then join us today.
