How to Plan for Your Interview to Avoid That Nervous, Anxious Feeling
July 30th, 2019Landing an interview for a job you really want can feel simultaneously exhilarating and terrifying. You’re thrilled you were selected to interview for the position and desperately want to impress the hiring manager, but you became a nervous wreck the second you received the invitation.
There’s a lot of talented professionals looking to advance their accounting careers in Spokane, and you’re one of them. Here’s some advice to help ease your anxiety, so you’re able to show the interviewer you’re the best person for the job.
Four Tips to Avoid Interview Anxiety
Spend Plenty of Time Preparing
It’s hard to be nervous when you know you’re truly ready for the interview. Achieve this by fully researching the company — i.e., carefully reviewing its website, blog, and social media presence — the interviewer, and the job itself. Devise clever answers to common interview questions and ask someone you trust to rehearse them with you. Since the tables will turn at some point in the interview, write a list of thoughtful questions to ask the hiring manger in case you draw a blank on the big day.
Don’t Leave Anything Until the Last Minute
A last-minute catastrophe will likely send your anxiety through the roof, so take control of issues that are 100% avoidable. For example, instead of assuming your interview attire is clean and fits, try it on several days in advance. Seemingly little things, such as taking a practice drive to the company to gauge traffic around the time of your interview and checking out the parking situation — even if you’re familiar with the area — can make a world of difference.
Make Time for a Healthy Stress-Relieving Activity
Combat stress on the day of your interview by making time for a healthy activity that will calm your nerves. This is different for everyone but might include meditation, exercise, or spending time with loved ones. After engaging in this pastime, you’ll feel relaxed, energized, and ready to take on anything that comes your way.
Practice Positive Thinking
When you’re nervous, it’s easy for your mind to fill with negative thoughts, but that won’t get you hired. Combat your anxiety by visualizing yourself in the job. If you can see it, you can believe it. Going into the interview with confidence will help you put your best self forward, and other candidates will have a very hard time competing with that.
Searching for a new accounting job in Spokane or Seattle? Provisional Accounting can help you find the right temporary/contract, contract-to-hire, or direct-hire position for your skills and interests. Contact us today to get started!