It is common for students and even seasoned professionals to feel apprehensive about the interview process. These feelings of anxiety and self-doubt that sometimes go along with interviewing are very similar to performance anxiety (better known as stage fright) felt by artists and musicians who perform in public on a regular basis. Here are a few tips that artists use that students can incorporate into their interview strategy.
- Don’t focus on what could go wrong. Instead focus on the positive. Prior to the interview, evaluate the skills and experiences that can put you in the best light.
- Be prepared: practice, practice, and more practice. – Visit UCS for a mock interview to get feedback on how you look to employers.
- Practice controlled breathing, meditation, and other strategies to help you relax and redirect your thoughts. Arrive at the interview 10 minutes early so that you can gather your thoughts without feeling rushed to get to your location on time.
- Connect with your audience – Smile, make eye contact, and be as genuine as you can. Employers will be able to spot inauthenticity a mile away.
- Remind yourself that you have prepared yourself to the best of your ability – Try not to over-analyze your interview “performance”. Keep in mind that given all the circumstances that have led to this moment, you have, in fact, done your best.
Keep these tips in mind the next time you’re feeling anxious about an upcoming interview!