Know Your Qualifications
Do you feel nervous before interviews?
Overcoming anxiety requires a mix of strategy, shift in mindset, and practice.
Knowing your qualifications, and structuring conversations so your strengths and accomplishments are memorable, builds confidence, calms nerves, and helps you feel in control.
Try these approaches and evolve them over time so you can advance to the next level.
Prepare Thoroughly
Research the Company & Role: Understand their mission, culture, recent news and how your skills align
Know Your Resume: Tie your experiences, competencies, accomplishments and transitions together
Use SOAR Responses: Answer questions with a Situation, Objective/Obstacle, Action, Result format
Prepare Smart Questions: Show curiosity by asking about company challenges, goals and growth
Practice Out Loud: Arrange recorded mock interviews to observe your delivery and improve technique
Manage Nervousness
Breathe & Slow Down: Practice breathing deeply (4-7-8 method)
Reframe Anxiety: Your response to nerves and excitement is similar. Say, “I’m not nervous, I’m excited.”
Challenge Negativity: Instead of worrying whether you’ll make a mistake, approach situations as learning opportunities
Visualization: Envision yourself answering questions confidently and having meaningful conversations
Set Yourself Up for Success
Plan Logistics: Get a good night’s sleep, arrive early and be distraction-free
Bring Notes (If Allowed): Having bullets can be helpful, but avoid overuse or reading directly from them
Dress the Part: Wear something that boosts confidence and aligns with the company culture
During the Interview, Remember:
It’s Only a Conversation: Build rapport, listen actively, and engage with a learner’s mindset
Think Before You Speak: Use “the power of the pause” to gather your thoughts before answering
Speak Clearly & Confidently: Even when nervous, speaking slowly, with intention, makes an impression
Post-Interview Follow-Up
Send Thanks: Email the hiring manager to express appreciation, reinforce your enthusiasm for the role, and reference key takeaways from the discussion.
Need more tools? Visit the Resources page to access eBooks that will help you take inventory of your talents and achievements, build personalized interview responses, and create your Career Story.
