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Shaggy Uzimaki
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what do i do when i get nervous at an interveiw

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about 10 years ago
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Rob Akscyn
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Hi Danyelle, The advice so far is great. Here are my thoughts (which may inadvertently merely echo those of others).

  • Keep your answers short and to the point. Nervousness can lead to rambling. Better to let the interviewer keep leading the interview.
  • Talk slowly -- nervousness can lead to more rapid speech (i.e., your mind is striving to discharge nervousness, and it thinks (id level here) that talking slowly is a sign of not-really-knowing what to say (and thus thinking faster and longer is better). Nope --- they are not. Just relax, be yourself
  • Just be yourself -- do not strive to put on any aires of this or that. Employers are looking not only for those who can perform, but also those who have a good attitude (e.g., buoyant). Since they are human too, interviewers wish for their firm to get people with whom they will enjoy being around.
  • Don't be afraid to work in a tidbit about yourself, as a related side remark to an answer to your question. Doing this is good for both you and the interviewer -- as it gives the interviewer something they can be engaged by as well (e.g., saying they have same/similar interest or experience).
  • Feel free to take some time to think about what you want to say -- say for example , saying "That's a good question!" as that give your mind a tidbit of time to collect its thoughts. You can even be humorous about it (should the question be hard, say) by smiling and saying "Hmmm. I have to think a bit about that!!". Interviewers know you are in a spotlight -- and for those who true professionals, they will do their fair share to make the experience a pleasant one for you. Yes -- as others said -- they already thing you are worthy, otherwise you wouldn't get to the interview stage.
  • And, just keep in mind, though you know none of us responding, we do send wishes your way.
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Bridgette Clarke-Lyke
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Customer Service Representative at Amazon

Hi Danyelle. When and if I ever get nervous; I just say a prayer. Try it, Prayer works with everything!!:)

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Theresa Clark
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Try taking a few deep breaths and stay calm, interviews don't last long. First impressions mean alot, be yourself. You'll do just fine, and good luck:-)

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Nancy Lyman
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English Teacher at Seacoast High School

In addition to all this good advice on being prepared, try some of these simple physical things:

  1. Be a superhero. Before you get there, maybe before you leave home or are alone in the restroom, stand with your hands on your hips, good posture, chin up, feet apart just like Superman or Wonder Woman ready to conquer anything. Body and mind are connected, so use these physical postures to battle the nervousness. Feel silly? Okay, then laugh at yourself and lighten the mood. Don't scoff: it really works.

  2. Try subtle hand massage if you're nervous during the interview. Ever had a manicure? People find hand massage calming, so try it for yourself. Use the thumb of one hand in a circular motion to massage the palm of the other hand. Under the table, please -- you don't want to appear to be wringing your hands!

  3. Take possession of the elevator. While everyone else is huddling at the back or in a corner, staring at the lighted numbers, you stand in the middle, eyes forward, back comfortably straight. You OWN that elevator, even when you're alone. It is your throne room. Do this as often as you can, and it will help inspire self-confidence. Also good for nervous public speakers.

Although I felt foolish at first, I have tried these three things and find they work. Why not give 'em a whirl?

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Shantana Daniels-Arnold
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take deep breath an keep a great attitude an u can get through it.

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James Vandenbrink
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First of all, why are YOU nervous? All the real pressure is on the interviewer to get it right. Their company is trying to fill an openi ng. The company is counting on this person to hit a home run. Care to guess how often that actually happens??? This is why it's so important to have a source of income while you are applying for that perfect job opportunity. It allows you to think to yourself, " I wasn't looking for a job when I found this one". I know that sounds a little arrogant, but it's a great way to not only quell the anxiety you may feel but it also helps you to project an aura of self confidence. Don't have a job? No problem. You have nothing to lose by applying. I know people are reading this and going crazy but, you should practice little self hypnosis tricks like this. Professional sales people do it all the time. Read up on creating a super persona. It's really very easy and it will not only help you land that job but, it will also enhance your performance once you are on the job. Best of luck and remember to breath.

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Steven Nauheimer
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remember to go over top ten interview questions. Must job interviewers ask to same questions. If you have thouth these out you will become less nervous knowing you already have an answer.

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MC Tischler
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Sdl at Frito Lay

When I land an interview I approach it with the attitude that I already have the job its their job to seduce me into working for them. I make sure to have open ended questions prepared and I write down their answers and rate them just like they are rating me.

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Alvin Bland
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Just pray

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Alvin Bland
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Just pray

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