How to get over your fear of job interviews

Halloween is here but are you more frightened of job interviews? Read on to find out how you can get over your fear of the interview process

As Halloween approaches, the air thickens with anticipation for ghostly ghouls and spine-chilling stories. However, for many, the real fright lurks in the shadows of the interview room. Like monsters under the bed, the fear of interviews can feel overwhelming. But fear not! You can turn this daunting experience into a treat with a few tricks.

Understanding the Fear

The fear of interviews often stems from the unknown—much like a haunted house filled with dark corners and surprises. You might worry about how you’ll perform, whether you’ll remember your answers, or what the interviewer will think of you. Acknowledging these fears is the first step to overcoming them. Remember, even seasoned professionals feel a twinge of anxiety before an interview!

Prepare Your Armor

As Halloween revellers don their costumes to face the night, preparation is your armour against interview anxiety. Research the company thoroughly. Understand its culture, values, and recent developments. The more you know, the less likely you’ll be caught off guard—turning you into a confident candidate rather than a timid trick-or-treater.

Practice common interview questions, but don’t limit yourself to rehearsing answers. Consider scenarios where you might need to think on your feet. This practice will help you tackle unexpected questions with the agility of a ninja, leaving you feeling empowered rather than petrified.

The Power of Visualisation

One of the most effective tools in conquering fear is visualization. Picture yourself walking into the interview confidently, shaking hands with the interviewer, and answering questions with poise. Imagine the positive outcomes, like receiving a job offer or feeling satisfied with your performance. This mental rehearsal can transform your perception of the interview from a scary monster to a manageable challenge.

Create a Ritual

Many people have rituals to calm their nerves, such as sipping a warm drink, wearing a lucky charm, or listening to a favourite playlist. Develop a pre-interview routine that helps you relax. It could be as simple as taking a few deep breaths, stretching, or reciting a mantra. Establishing this calming ritual can tame the anxious ghosts that haunt your thoughts.

Embrace the Experience

Interviews are not just a test; they are also a two-way street. Think of them as an opportunity to assess whether the company is the right fit for you. Embrace the experience as a chance to showcase your skills and personality. Instead of focusing solely on your fear, shift your mindset to the excitement of meeting new people and exploring new opportunities.

After the Interview

Once the interview is over, reflect on the experience. Just as Halloween gives us a chance to learn from ghost stories, each interview teaches you something new. What went well? What could you improve? Celebrate your bravery in facing your fears, and remember that every interview is a step toward your dream job.

As Halloween draws near, remember that the fear of interviews can be conquered with preparation and a positive mindset. Embrace the season, don your best professional costume, and step into the interview with confidence. You’ve got this—treats are waiting on the other side!

I am Diana Dawson, Founder of Working Career. As a Professional Career Coach, Career Psychologist, Career Counsellor, Career Consultant, Executive Coach, and Wellbeing at Work Coach, I help organisations and individuals manage their careers.

I am an Accredited Master Coach with the Association for Coaching, a Coaching Psychologist and a Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapist with nearly 20 years of experience in the field.

I work with professionals from different sectors and backgrounds to cope and flourish at work and at interviews.

I can provide one-to-one career coaching on zoom.