So you’ve been applying for insolvency jobs, audit jobs or tax jobs and have secured some interviews.
Feeling nervous before or during an interview is normal, especially when the stakes are high. The key to success lies in managing those nerves to present yourself confidently and professionally. Here are eight effective ways to relax and stay calm during an interview.
- Prepare Thoroughly
Preparation is one of the best ways to reduce anxiety (check out our Attending Interviews, What are your main Objectives? post). Knowing you’ve done your homework can boost your confidence. Here’s how:
- Research the company and the role in detail.
- Practice answering common interview questions.
- Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer. The more prepared you feel, the less room there is for nervousness to take over.
- Practice Deep Breathing
Deep breathing exercises can help calm your mind and body before and during the interview. Try this technique:
- Inhale deeply through your nose for a count of four.
- Hold your breath for a count of four.
- Exhale slowly through your mouth for a count of four. Repeat this a few times to steady your nerves and clear your mind.
- Visualise Success
Positive visualisation can help you approach the interview with a calm and optimistic mindset. Picture yourself walking into the room confidently, answering questions smoothly, and leaving with a smile. This mental rehearsal can help reduce fear and increase confidence.
- Arrive Early and Get Comfortable
Rushing to an interview can heighten anxiety. Plan to arrive 10–15 minutes early to give yourself time to adjust. Use this time to:
- Familiarise yourself with the environment.
- Review your notes.
- Practice calming exercises like deep breathing or positive affirmations.
- Focus on the Present Moment
Instead of worrying about what might go wrong, focus on the present moment. Pay attention to what the interviewer is saying, and respond thoughtfully. Active listening not only helps you stay engaged but also shifts your focus away from your nerves.
- Adopt a Confident Body Language
Your body language can influence your mindset. Sitting upright, maintaining eye contact, and smiling can help you feel more confident, even if you’re nervous. Remember, “fake it till you make it” can work wonders in calming your nerves.
- Use a Stress-Relief Technique
If you feel overwhelmed during the interview, use a quick stress-relief technique:
- Place your hands on your lap and gently squeeze them together for a few seconds. Release and repeat as needed.
- Press your feet firmly into the floor to ground yourself and reduce jitters.
- Reframe Nervousness as Excitement
Nervousness and excitement are closely related emotions. Instead of seeing your racing heart and sweaty palms as signs of anxiety, reframe them as indicators that you’re excited about the opportunity. This simple mindset shift can help you channel your energy positively.
Final Thoughts
Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but with the right strategies, you can manage your anxiety and perform at your best. Preparation, mindfulness, and confidence-building techniques can help you stay calm and make a strong impression. Remember, it’s okay to feel nervous – it just means you care about the opportunity.
We have a number of blogs posts that may help with your interview preparation;
- Body Language in Video Interviews
- Guide to Acing the Interview Dress Code
- Asking the ‘Reservation Question’ in Interviews
- Winning the Video Interview Guide
- Competency-Based Interview Questions and how to ace them
- 10 Interview Mistakes That Could Cost You The Job
- The ‘Weakness’ Question
My views are based on my 17 years+ of recruiting for Insolvency and Accountancy Practice professionals.
For advice about your career options, Insolvency Jobs, Audit Jobs or Tax Jobs, speak to Scott Lowes at Levitate Recruitment, specialists in placing insolvency professionals and practice-trained accountants across the UK, and find the right role to suit your ambitions.
