Succeed in Your Job Interview
By: Source: AARP.org Date Posted: 2004-07-02 15:24:00-04:00
You're prepared for the interview. From your research on the employer, you know how your skills match the job. You've practiced describing yourself and answering hard questions. You've even done a trial trip to make sure you can get there on time. And your family is impressed with your trendy haircut.
Now, you're supposed to relax. Oh, sure.
Ironically, the more relaxed you can be, the more chance you'll have of being your real self. And that's what you want to sell to the employer - you.
Choose a method to reduce interview stress. Practice! Then, you'll be able to follow the ten rules for interview success.
You'll be able to say what you want in your interview. You'll be more aware of any negative impressions the interviewer seems to have - and of how to correct them. And you'll be confident enough to follow up on every interview.
Reduce Interview Stress
There are many ways to learn how to relax. Some of them take time, or require help. Examples include learning to meditate, doing yoga or tai chi, or getting a massage.
If you can use one of these methods to relax yourself before a job interview, great. But there are other relaxation methods that you can do quickly, and on your own. Try one of these techniques before or during your job interview.
Visualization or Guided Imagery
In your mind, you choose an image of a peaceful and beautiful setting. Picture yourself there. Keep focusing on this image for 2 or 3 minutes.
Let yourself feel relaxed. If other thoughts or images come into your mind, try to let them come, and then go. Return to your peaceful image.
You can bring a photo or drawing of a favorite image to your interview. Could you paste it to the inside of a notebook or calendar? Look at the image and relax while you're waiting to speak with the employer.
This relaxation method works because it gives us control over our imagination, where worry takes place. The relaxing image takes the place of our worry.
Deep, Slow Breathing
Take a deep breath through your nose, while counting to four. Now, hold your breath for four seconds. Then, breathe out through your mouth, to the count of four.
Feel your chest, shoulders, and other muscles relax. Breathe like this for at least a minute. Several minutes are even better. Count to four every time - while you inhale, hold your breath, and exhale.
When you first try this, exaggerate your breathing. Make some noise! After some practice, you can breathe like this without anyone noticing - even an interviewer. Try to slow and deepen your breathing as you listen to the interviewer's questions.
This relaxation technique works because it calms our nervous system.
Thought-Stopping
Does your mind sometimes race with "oh, no" thoughts? Especially if you're afraid you've said something wrong, or misunderstood? Such self-criticizing thoughts can make it hard to hear what an interviewer is really asking. And it's hard to concentrate on what we want to say next.
Practice saying "stop" to yourself - each time that a negative thought enters your mind. Try some deep and slow breathing at the same time. Saying "stop" can release the thought from your mind.
This relaxation method works because it gives us more control over our thinking.
Follow Interview Guidelines
With your interview stress under control, you can pay attention to what the interviewer is really asking. You can think better on your feet. And you can communicate who you really are and what you can do for the employer.
Employers who interview many job applicants say there are ten basic interview rules. They seem pretty obvious, right? But career experts report that most people would be amazed how often applicants forget the basics.
Sticking to these guidelines gives you the best chance of getting the job.
- Talk only about your past experiences that relate to the job you ' re applying for.
- Show how you ' ll fit in to the workplace.
- Avoid saying anything negative about former employers or co-workers.
- Avoid telling the employer what they could do better or are doing wrong.
- Ask your own questions.
- Show enthusiasm.
- Be polite.
- Show up on time.
- Dress up.
- Thank your interviewer with a follow-up note or e-mail.
For older workers with long work or volunteering histories, it's especially important to limit your answers. It's tempting to tell stories about your various experiences. But the most powerful examples will have a clear connection to the job you're applying for.
Explain how you work productively with people of all ages. This is particularly relevant if the employer seems to wonder about employees your age.
Ask for details if you don't understand a question, if you want to check on your answer, or if you think the interviewer has a wrong idea about you. Asking your own questions about the job shows that you are serious, straightforward, and able to apply the experience that comes with age.
Even if you're low key, tell the interviewer that you tackle new projects with energy and persistence.
What if your interview ends without an offer? Ask about next steps. It's fine to ask when you can expect a next contact. Send your thank-you letter or e-mail. If you don't hear anything in the expected time, wait a few more days. Then call once more to check in.
What if the interview was positive, but you still hear nothing? If your job search continues, keep this employer on your networking list. Things can change fast. So it's worth another contact later on to remind them of your skills and what you can contribute to the company.
AARP Resources
Managing Stress
AARP describes relaxation methods you can use before and during your job interview.
Additional Resources
The Riley Guide's Interviewing Advice
Choose the articles that fit your interviewing situation.
Book
Find these books online at Barnes and Noble.com
Diary of a Job Search: One Man's Journey from Unemployment to a New Career, Tim Johnston, Ten Speed Press, 2003. From a newspaper column that Tim Johnston wrote during his 8-month job search. Frank and useful ideas on how to be yourself in job interviews.
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