Ideal interviewee

I have my first job interview coming up. I'm so nervous. How do I calm down? And how am I supposed to act and do well? I have no idea what I'm supposed to do.

The process of applying for jobs, especially interviews, can be extremely nerve-wracking, especially if it's your first one.

It's important to prepare yourself mentally and physically for an interview; the person conducting the interview will expect you to be a little nervous, but it's important you are able to get your point across as calmly and professionally as possible.

The best way to keep calm in an interview is by being safe in the knowledge that you have done your homework. Make sure that you have looked into both the company and the role of the job that you will hopefully be taking on. Think about your own skills and how they relate to the job description, and then you'll be able to emphasize these in your answers to prove how suitable you are for the role. Equally, it is important to allow yourself time to relax to make sure that you don't wind yourself up so tight that you can't answer the questions to your full potential.

Try and get a good night's sleep the night before your interview so that you feel ready and able when it comes down to it. First impressions can go a long way when it comes to getting a job, so yawning through your interview won't go down too well.

Make sure you look smart as well; this will give a good impression and help you to feel the part during your interview. As well as making sure you look the part, make sure that you sell yourself during your interview. Let them know about your talents and what you can bring to their organisation - character goes a long way. Promote yourself during your interview - it might not feel like the natural thing to do, but it lets the employer see your confidence.

Another thing that the interviewer will be looking out for is your body language, sometimes we give away our real feelings without being aware of it, so it's good to come across as relaxed and calm, even though deep down you are feeling the opposite! Try to look relaxed and keep eye contact with the interviewer, but avoid playing with your hair, or biting your nails as you could be giving them the impressions that you are not confident in the answers you are giving, or even that you are lying!

Practising interview techniques with friends, families or tutors can also be very helpful, especially if you have never been in this situation before. This can help you relax and feel more ready for the type of questions that might come up.

It might be wise to think of some questions to ask the employer as well, this shows initiative, assertiveness and a willingness to learn more about the company. You will usually be given an opportunity to ask your own questions at the end of the interview. Try to avoid questions about salary and hours - instead you could focus on the potential for career progression and try to get a sense of the company's working environment. Remember, the interview is a two-way process - it's as much an opportunity to find out it it's the right job for you as vice versa.

Remember, although it can be nerve-wracking the interviewer is looking for the best person for the job, so they won't be trying to trip you up. Make sure you know your stuff, relax and look smart and things should be fine.

Updated: 13/04/2010

Question answered by bss