You aced the first interview round, and now, they’re calling you back for the second round. You studied more about the company and practiced answering sample interview questions. You’ve been waiting for this chance for a very long time, and now it’s here.
But the thing is, you can’t seem to calm your nerves. As much as you want to look forward to the event, you’re also dreading it. You think that you might sabotage yourself by giving wrong answers. As a result, you wallow in your fears, and you let them immobilize you. Interview jitters are normal, but you might get too overwhelmed to function if you don’t manage your heebie-jeebies.
According to an article published by Southeastern Louisiana University, applicants called in for the second round of interviews have a 1 out of 4 chance of getting hired. Others say you already have one foot in the door. Regardless of your likelihood of bagging the job, you can improve your chances if you confidently and calmly answer the interview questions.
Why do we get nervous before an interview?
According to Tao Connect’s Chief Science Officer, Dr. Sherry Benton, people tend to get nervous when they feel like they’re putting on a show. This is the brain’s flight or fight response and it prepares the body for anything that it might encounter along the way. An interview may not be putting you in physical danger, yet your brain is still preparing your body just in case you need to get out of there. This is what doctors refer to as ‘performance anxiety.’
Here are a few tips that could help you calm your nerves as you prepare for that second job interview from recruiting agencies in Toronto.
Listen to music that empowers you.
One of the best ways to improve your mood and mental state is to listen to motivating music. Some studies support the theory that music can prevent depression. Like statins, it can improve one’s blood flow by lowering cortisol levels and other stress-inducing hormones. On top of that, music is purported to ease your pain.
Choose songs that empower and make you feel good. These songs could settle your nerves and boost your confidence. Listen to them before your interview and notice how it relaxes you.
Try doing mini-mental rehearsals.
Rehearsing actual interview questions works! If you don’t want to rehearse out loud, you can also prepare differently by running things through in your mind. Close your eyes, breathe deeply, and envision yourself on the interview day. Try to visualize yourself as someone prepared, focused, and calm while you answer the questions thrown at you by the panel.
Get a good night’s sleepÂ
Aside from confidence, you need full brain power to be in your top form during the interview. The best way to do this is to get a good night’s rest. According to Dr. Susan Biali, a mental health expert, you need a complete eight hours of sleep for optimal cognitive performance.
She explained that if you’re well-rested, your focus and ability to deal with stress improve. Aside from that, you also feel more relaxed and ready to tackle any questions thrown your way.Â
Bottomline
These are just a few of the tips that you can apply for your next round of interviews. Master yourself and be in your best form as you face your future employer. Good luck!
