Five Golden Rules to Overcome Interview Fears M

Five Golden Rules to Overcome Interview Fears



Sweaty palms, dry and raspy throat and butterflies in the stomach. If that's how you usually feel before an interview, take heart in the fact that you're not alone. Although there are no statistics, HR professionals estimate that almost six out of 10 candidates, who appear for a job interview, are nervous and tense. But here's a little secret - a candidate, who appears nervous, dramatically reduces his or her chances to make it to the final list. So take a deep breath, pull yourself together and know the golden rules to overcome interview fears and bag your dream job.



1. Do your homework



Do ample research on your role, the company and the industry. HR heads say an unprepared candidate starts to fumble and stutter, and appears anxious when asked questions about the industry and how the company is performing. You can get the latest news from the company's annual report, its website, press releases, and of course the internet.



2. Rehearse your answers



Rehearse answers to the possible questions you may be asked. There are always some stock questions applicants face during interviews - Tell us something about yourself; Why do you want to change your job; how do you see yourself growing in this organization; what are your strengths and weaknesses and such. It pays to rehearse the answers either in front of the mirror, or with someone else.



3. The first 5-7 minutes are crucial



First impressions matter. Be extremely careful, in the first five to seven minutes of the interview, about what you say, how you conduct yourself and what impression you allow the interviewer to form of yourself. A candidate should be careful about his way of speaking, posture, attitude and the way he carries himself.



4. Don't appear desperate



When you want something too much, you get more nervous. HR heads say interviews should be seen as an opportunity to meet and interact with new people, and not as a do-or-die situation. This will dramatically reduce stress. Asking a question or two in return at the end of an interview, also gives the impression that s/he is not scared or desperate for the job.



5. Follow interview hygiene



Follow some basic interview hygiene rules. Dress neatly and don't look tired and sweaty. This will boost your confidence. Never look sleepy or stare at the interviewer.





Good Luck