Interviews can be daunting, even for the most experienced professionals. Feeling nervous is completely normal, but if anxiety gets the better of you, it can affect your performance and confidence. With the right preparation and mindset, you can overcome interview anxiety and give yourself the best chance of success.
Preparation is Key
Nothing eases anxiety like knowing you’re ready. Research the company, understand the role, and be clear on how your skills match what they’re looking for. Prepare answers for common interview questions and think about examples that showcase your experience. Practice answering out loud with a friend, family, or even in front of a mirror.
Control What You Can
There are always unknowns in an interview but focus on the factors you can control. Plan your journey (or test your video call setup), pick your outfit the night before, and aim to arrive early. This reduces last-minute stress and helps you feel composed.
Reframe Your Mindset
Instead of viewing the interview as a test, see it as a two-way conversation. It’s not just about them assessing you, it’s also a chance to find out if the role and company are right for you. This simple shift in perspective can reduce pressure and help you engage more naturally.
Practice Calm Breathing Techniques
Anxiety can trigger physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, or shaky hands. Simple breathing exercises can help you stay calm. Try inhaling slowly for four counts, holding for four, and exhaling for four. Repeat this a few times before the interview to steady your nerves.
Be Honest About Your Nerves
If you’re feeling anxious, it’s okay to acknowledge it briefly at the start. A casual mention like “I’m excited about this opportunity and naturally feeling a little nervous,” can actually work in your favour. It shows authenticity and humanises the interaction. Most interviewers will understand.
Focus on the Conversation, Not Perfection
Remember, interviewers aren’t expecting you to be perfect. They want to see how you think, communicate, and problem-solve. Focus on having a genuine conversation rather than delivering flawless, rehearsed answers. Listening carefully and responding thoughtfully is often more impressive than memorised scripts.
Learn From Every Interview
No matter the outcome, treat each interview as a learning experience. Reflect on what went well and where you can improve. Over time, your confidence will grow, and interview anxiety will naturally decrease.
Confidence Comes With Practice
Interview anxiety it normal, but it doesn’t have to hold you back. With solid preparation, mindset shifts, and a few practical techniques, you can manage your nerves and give a strong performance. The more you practise, the more natural interviews will feel, and the closer you’ll be to landing the right job.
Written by Ellen Gough