How NOT to self-sabotage your interview

Your personal mission statement is compelling. You have great answers ready to tough questions. Your suit is dry-cleaned and your shoes are shined.  Then the day of the interview arrives and it all falls apart.  The worst thing is that deep down you know that you got in your own way.

What can we do to avoid tripping ourselves up when it comes to interviews?

Practicalities

Know where you are going!  Be familiar with the exact location of the interview. Don’t assume that the building will magically appear where you think it should.  The entrance might be on another street.  Arriving red-faced, sweating and unable to speak is never a good start.  Do a dry run.

Ask the receptionist if there is a place to leave your dripping umbrella, coat and any other paraphernalia. Be as unencumbered as possible when entering the interview room.

Turn off your mobile phone before you go into the interview.   Eliminate the chance of it vibrating and interrupting the flow.

Nerves

Nerves are a natural indication of the brain releasing stress hormones which show that our systems are “on alert”. One of the simplest ways to harness nerves to work for us is by deep breathing.  On the journey to the interview and as you wait breathe in and out deeply and slowly a number of times.  Walk around the block.  The combination of fresh air, mild exercise and deep breathing will increase your level of calmness.

“Brain freeze” during the interview can be upsetting.  Should your mind go blank; take a slow deep breath, ask the interviewer to repeat the question and sip some water.  If that is not enough; don’t panic.  Suggest to the interviewer that you come back to the question. There is every chance that a few moments later an answer will come to you.

The Unexpected

Don’s trip yourself up when it comes to interviews

Don’t let the unforeseen throw you off kilter. In the event that you are likely to be late; call them. Don’t email or text.  So make sure you have the number handy.  Let them know your expected time of arrival and offer to reschedule.   If the interview goes ahead apologise at the start.  Then forget about it.  Briefly apologise again at the end.

A delayed schedule can be stressful.  Use the time to relax by practising deep breathing, chatting to others or reading the paper.  Don’t be tempted to run through possible questions or answers in your head. And keep hydrated!

Unexpected change to the anticipated format can occur. This could be to test you or for organisational reasons. For example, instead of one interviewer there may be a panel or your prepared presentation may not be required.  Don’t question the why.  Just smile, accept it and carry on.

Interviews can be stressful.   These tips will help you side-step any lurking banana skins.  Know where you are going (literally), relax, smile and do yourself justice.