Here's how you can conquer nerves and anxiety during an interview.

1 Prepare Well

Thorough preparation is your best defense against interview nerves. Start by researching the company and the role you're applying for, as this will give you confidence in your knowledge and ability to answer questions. Practice your responses to common interview questions, but don't memorize them; you want to sound natural. Additionally, organize your documents and attire well in advance to avoid last-minute panic. Knowing you're fully prepared can significantly reduce anxiety and boost your self-assurance.

2 Visualize Success

Visualization is a powerful tool used by athletes and professionals alike to enhance performance. Before the interview, take some time to visualize yourself succeeding. Imagine walking into the room with confidence, shaking hands firmly, and answering questions with poise. This mental rehearsal can help condition your mind to act out these positive outcomes in reality, thereby reducing fear and anxiety.

3 Breathing Techniques

Controlled breathing is an effective way to manage anxiety in the moment. Practice deep breathing exercises where you breathe in slowly through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and then exhale slowly through your mouth. This can help lower your heart rate and relax your body, making you feel more centered and in control before and during the interview.

4 Positive Self-talk

Engage in positive self-talk to combat negative thoughts that can heighten anxiety. Remind yourself of your qualifications, past successes, and strengths. Replace critical thoughts with affirming ones, such as "I am capable and ready for this opportunity." Positive self-talk can shift your mindset from one of anxiety to one of confidence.

5 Mock Interviews

Conduct mock interviews with a friend or mentor to simulate the interview environment. This practice can help you become more comfortable with the process and receive constructive feedback. As you grow accustomed to answering questions and expressing your thoughts coherently, the real interview will feel less intimidating.

6 Stay Present

During the interview, focus on staying present in the moment. Listen carefully to each question and take a brief pause to collect your thoughts before responding. This helps prevent rushing and allows you to provide thoughtful, well-articulated answers. Remember, it's perfectly acceptable to ask for clarification if you don't understand a question, which also demonstrates your attention to detail and desire to provide the best response.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?