How to overcome anxiety and nail your next job interview

2. Adopt the dual interview mindset

While it’s natural to feel you’re in the spotlight, try viewing the interview as a mutual exchange of information.

You’re interviewing them just as much as they’re interviewing you. Prepare questions that help you gauge if the company aligns with your values, career goals, and personal growth aspirations.

As you face the modern job market, walk in knowing that the right fit is a two-way street.

For instance, “Can you share a recent decision or initiative the company undertook that reflects its core values?” or “How does the company encourage innovation or new ideas from its employees?” This approach can alleviate some of the pressure you put on yourself and level the playing field.

3. Embrace the power of pause

In the rush to impress, there’s a common misconception that rapid responses equate to competence. But, taking a moment to pause (2-3 seconds) before answering offers you a moment of reflection, signalling to your interviewer that you’re truly considering their questions and answering with intent.

It also gives you extra thinking time to formulate clearer, more impactful responses, and can showcase emotional intelligence, deliberation, and a thoughtful approach – qualities that many employers value highly.

4. If you don’t have an example to share

You’ve probably come across those “Tell me about a time when you…” questions. If you’re drawing a blank or the situation hasn’t come up in your experience, no need to panic or fabricate a story.

Start by sharing your understanding of the scenario, then either draw parallels to a similar experience you’ve had or discuss how you’d handle it, given your current skills and understanding.

You can guide your responses with phrases like, “While I haven’t faced that exact situation, I’ve dealt with something similar…” or “Given what I know, here’s how I’d approach it…” This way, you’re showcasing your ability to think on your feet, apply past experiences, and anticipate future scenarios.

5. Maintain interview-ready posture

The way you carry yourself physically speaks volumes. Research shows that perceived confidence positively correlates with perceived competence. Holding an upright posture not only exudes confidence to your interviewers but also internally reinforces a sense of self-assuredness.

When sitting, whether face-to-face or in a virtual interview, keep your back upright, shoulders pulled back but relaxed, and feet firmly grounded.

As you face the modern job market, walk in knowing that the right fit is a two-way street, and with preparation and authenticity, you’re poised to find it.

Shadé Zahrai is a behavioural strategist, and award-winning peak performance educator to Fortune 500s. Co-founder of Influenceo Global, she advises global brands on matters spanning leadership, culture and performance. Follow her on LinkedIn here.

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