We've heard all there is to hear about preparing for interviews; whether it is what to wear, what to say, or what to do. But here are some wise words to guide you before you get in the hot seat, so you can handle the interview like a champ from the get-go.
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So you’ve dressed the part and made all the preparations for your interview, and the big day is finally here. On your way there, you are probably feeling very anxious, and your nerves are almost getting the best of you. We have all heard the usual information about preparing for interviews; research the company, prepare answers to possible interview questions, and plan your outfit. All that aside, there is still a bit more to keep in mind to help you steer the interview in your favor.
The minutes building up to the interview can be terrifying, especially if you are unsure of what to do during that time. Before going in for an interview, take advantage of that time to get your mind right and align your focus and energy on the task at hand. Think about the person you are going to meet and how you can make a lasting impression on them. With that being said, here are a few words of advice you should hear before you go for your interview.
A bit of pre-interview self-care can go a long way
Stay calm and breathe
Whenever you are stressed, the body releases epinephrine and cortisone, which are stress hormones that can affect your ability to think clearly. This is why it is important to avoid this hormonal cocktail if you want to stay cool, calm, and collected before the interview. When you are calm before the interview, it helps to clear your mind, so you can be focused enough to listen carefully, present your accomplishments properly, and respond better to the questions. You’ll also get bonus points when you’re calmer because it shows just how well you can handle stressful situations.
A good way to keep calm and carry on is to practice breathing techniques, such as counting your breath. This is very effective for calming your nerves. Count from one to ten while focusing on your breaths, then rinse and repeat.
Also, think happy thoughts. It may sound like an old and retired phrase, but it can work wonders to put you in a positive headspace before the interview.
Be memorable
Arrive early, but don’t go in just yet
There’s nothing worse than running late to an interview (well, there are worse things), but it can truly shake your confidence. So a good tip to follow is to arrive early to the building but do not go inside. Sounds counterintuitive, but trust me, you don’t want your interviewer to feel like they have to immediately drop what they are doing to interview you.
If you abide by the rule from most African parents where you show up to everything at least an hour early, that is fine. Just wait in a nearby restaurant, in your car, or take a stroll for a few minutes around the area. It might even help you clear your mind. However, make sure you get into the building at least 10 minutes before time.
Be nice
As you make your way to the office waiting area, you will obviously interact with the security guard, receptionist, or anyone else who greets you. Be nice to anyone you talk to while in the building. You never know if word may get back to the hiring manager about your behavior during the interaction.
Think about what you want to be remembered for
A good way to ace your interview is to make yourself memorable. Find a way to spark the interviewer’s interest and keep you in mind even after you leave. It can be through your knowledge or communication skills, or even in the way you answer the infamous “Tell me about yourself,” question.
Observe what the environment of the office is like. Any mementos in the office or messaging on the walls can tell you what the company considers important. It can also help you think of any relevant extra questions you can ask the interviewer.
Stay ready so you don’t have to get ready
Stop rehearsing
When you are just about to go in for your interview, that’s the time to stop “cramming” your responses, prepping, and researching about the company. It can make it seem like you are reading from a mental script. Taking a quick look at project numbers on your phone last minute could also make you misread important information. Remember, the interview should be conversational, so trust in what you know and everything should flow smoothly.
Don’t check your voicemail or email
It is also not advisable to check your emails or messages right before the interview because you could get some news that can throw you off.
However, if you do have to check anything on your phone, let it be the company’s social media pages like Twitter or LinkedIn. This will help you see if there have been any new and important developments or topics since you did your interview prep. In case, there’s a relevant trending topic in the last few hours, brush over the details just so you are in the know in case it comes up during the conversation.
Make sure your bag is organized
Organize your bag before the interview, so you can easily take out your documents without revealing any personal items or combing through your bag. This paints the picture of a disorganized person.
It is also advisable to carry some water with you. Why? Most times, the receptionist will ask if you would like some before the interview, so it is a good call to carry your own. Taking a sip of water can soothe your voice and cool you down before you start talking to the interviewer. Also, you won’t have to interrupt the session by getting out of the room if you need water.
Mirror-check
Lastly, make sure you look at yourself in the mirror in the nearest restroom before the interview. Check if your outfit looks okay, wash your hands, and check if your fingernails are clean. If you were planning on changing into appropriate shoes, this is the perfect time to do that. You can also give yourself a pep talk in the mirror if that’s your style, and voilà! You’ll be good to go!
However, before anything else, just remember that the above tips will be most effective if you have done all the necessary interview prep beforehand. Preparation helps you be more confident, and it can help your chances if you have all your ducks in a row before going into the interview.
