How to prepare for a job interview emotionally
Stay calm (and sharp) when it matters.
Even if it is a dream job you needed Yesterday.
You already did your homework, researched the company, and job requirements, prepared your stories, answers to tricky questions, etc.
Now, the emotional part:
Switch from a role to a human perspective
Remind yourself before and during the interview – for both the interviewer and yourself:
- you are not talking to a “company employee,” but a human being
- you are also not a “candidate,” but a human being
We are all equal. Working together on making this world a better place, and the interview (however it goes) – how we cooperate.
Wider/human/compassionate perspectives can help unless your stronger triggers interfere.
So…
Prepare and prevent
You will be able to keep your cool and deliver your story – if you prepare. Prevent unwanted reactions from sabotaging your cognitive abilities.
Especially, if you face challenging problems to solve, tests, or behavioral questions.
Do the inventory of your known “sore spots” and vulnerabilities:
- fears of not getting the job and expected calamities
- exaggerated desires – why you crave this opportunity
- fears of your weaknesses that can be uncovered
- history of interview hiccups
- history of problems in previous and current jobs
If unwanted reactions still arise:
- look into the causes and try to reduce their impact (reframe if possible)
The goal of the exercise is to ensure a balanced, creative response, even if the interviewer pushes these buttons.
So make sure you get constructive responses when thinking about these issues – at least in this isolated preparation session.
PS
Not a last-minute advice:
It is hard to switch from the default uncontrolled-mental-activity setting to a balanced state on demand. So process unwanted reactions well before they interfere with your next interview. Or the job.
How – check our Self-Mastery program.
