A job search question was emailed to me the other day from one of my clients. This client was concerned about having interview anxiety and wanted to prepare for a teaching job interview. I thought it would make a great blog post, as many of you may relate to interview jitters. It is prevalent for a person to get nervous when they go out of their “comfort zone,” but they are usually very pleased with the results once they do. Try to keep that in mind as you go through the job search process.
Here is the Job Search Question:
I’m freaking out a bit. I have an interview for an Elementary Teaching position for the ABC School Board here in Vancouver, B.C. I’m not sure if you know the work situation here in Vancouver, but it’s an extremely tight job market, and the competition is fierce. I consider myself exceptionally lucky to have landed an interview thanks to the resume and cover letter you created. This teaching job is significant (well, aren’t they all), and I can’t mess it up. I need some advice or encouragement.
I have severe interview anxiety, and my heart rate has skyrocketed in anticipation of Thursday’s teaching interview. I’ve read your ebook, A+ Teacher’s Interview Edge, which was extremely helpful. Once again, thanks for writing it. And I am scouring the school board’s website for my answer to “Why do you want to work on our board?” I’ve created cue cards, I’m getting my husband and others to mock interview me, but I’m still scared out of my pants. I stutter, I “um…”, I lose my train of thought and babble, and I have no fluency. No one I tell this to believes me because that’s not how anyone knows me. Any advice or last-minute thoughts, Candace?
My Response:
First off, congratulations on getting an interview. Interviewing is definitely a nerve-wracking experience. And it seems in your case that you are psyching yourself out a bit. Everything you are doing in preparation is recommended, as the best way to help combat nerves in the interview is to be as prepared as possible. This may seem easier to say than do, but remember that nerves are natural and that everyone being interviewed will be nervous just like you. Try not to put too much focus on your “ums.” The more you focus on the negatives, the more you will trip yourself up.
Try to concentrate on the positive; remember that you’ve been asked to this interview for a reason. The hiring committee has seen something in your resume that has gotten them interested in you. Now you need to have some confidence in yourself and your abilities. I would recommend trying some breathing exercises to try and calm your nerves. And I would also suggest that you practice interviewing, do a mock interview…and then step away and distract yourself in something fun to calm yourself. Remind yourself that you are the right person for the position; it is like giving yourself a “pep talk” and can really increase your confidence.
Arrive at your destination with time to spare, you may want to do a trial drive by, so you know the route if it is unfamiliar. Hurrying to an interview will only increase your anxiety and fear.
During the interview, don’t forget to take long, slow breaths from your diaphragm…. from what I understand, this will increase oxygen to your brain, which will, in turn, help you to think clearly and keep you calm.
If you would like to talk, go over some interviewing questions and tips, and talk about ways to combat your anxiety before and during your interview, we can schedule a time to talk. Having someone who cares to talk to can make a world of difference.
Wishing you the very best during the interview… and let me know how it goes.
Do any of you have advice for job seekers like this teacher? Please comment below, and I would appreciate you sharing this post! If you need help prepping for a big interview, give Candace a call today!
