Recognizing and Managing Nerves

Feeling nervous before or during a job interview is completely normal and happens to even the most experienced people.

The key is not to eliminate nerves altogether, but to learn how to manage them so that they do not negatively affect your performance or the impression you make.

It's normal to be nervous (Accept it)

The first step to managing nerves is to accept that it is a natural reaction. You may notice physical symptoms such as dry mouth, sweaty hands or a racing heart.

Recognizing these symptoms without judging yourself will help you reduce the anxiety generated by your own nervousness.

You don't have to tell anyone that you are nervous; just accept it as part of the process.

Pre-Interview Strategies (Arriving early, breathing, pre-interview exercise, relaxation)

You can do a lot before the interview to reduce tension:

Arrive early: Avoiding the last minute rush is critical. Arriving early allows you to acclimate and relax.

Relax before you go in: Have a coffee or water nearby, call a supportive friend, or just sit quietly going over your notes.

Take deep breaths: Just before you go in, take a few slow, deep breaths to calm your nervous system.

Exercise: Exercising vigorously the morning of the interview (if you're used to it) releases endorphins and helps reduce pent-up stress.

Strategies During the Interview (Pause before answering, focus on the interviewer).

If you feel nervous during the interview:

Pause before answering: don't feel pressured to answer immediately. Taking a brief pause to think gives you control and keeps you from speaking rashly.

Focus on the interviewer: Change your mental focus. Instead of thinking about yourself and how you are feeling ("me, me, me"), focus on listening carefully to the interviewer and