Preparing for an interview can feel a little nerve-wracking. It might be that you’re not used to being the center of attention or have a natural stress that tends to spike in these types of situations. Fortunately, there are several steps and anxiety counseling tips that can provide a slight boost of courage. Here’s a closer look to ensure you’re at your best when it comes time to speak. 

How to Relieve Interview Anxiety

1. Avoid Caffeine

While drinking coffee might be effective for waking up, it can actually serve to heighten stress. The increase in heart rate will trigger the body’s fight-or-flight response and leave you feeling completely unprepared. 

Not to mention that it’s a natural laxative and may require frequent trips to the bathroom. Instead, stick with water to keep you hydrated and make it easier to focus on the task at hand. Remember to take small sips to avoid having to make a run for the restroom. 

2. Start Interview Prep

It’s possible to lose your touch after going years without doing an interview. However, even those who are new to the search will benefit from interview preparation. It’s a program that allows you to meet with an experienced professional and secure a bit of practice. 

They’ll ask a few of the generic questions about your background and skills and then move into a more targeted approach that determines why you’re the right fit for the job. This will reveal answers that require more work and help hone your techniques. 

3. Research the Company

Understanding what the company does and all that the position entails is a key part of the interview process. It shows that you’re willing to go above and beyond and demonstrates a sense of preparation. 

If they were to ask a question about a particular part of their business, you already have the information on hand to provide a sufficient answer. This will create a good first impression and could put your mind at ease about the rest of the interview. 

Take control of your interview anxiety by meeting with the experts at Laurie Burns LCSW-R CGP. Located in Rochester, NY, this team has more than 20 years of experience and offers a variety of resources, including anxiety counseling and interview prep. Their licensed professional counselors are highly skilled and provide a compassionate approach when working with their clients. Call (585) 734-6826 to connect with a therapist or visit their website for additional information on anxiety counseling.