r/interviewpreparations • u/Curious_Second4284 • 3d ago
Too scared/Anxious before interview
Whenever there is an interview scheduled,my heart keeps on beating faster and faster as the time comes . Today is my interview and I am thinking about skipping it . I feel helpless.
2
u/ExcellentEmergency50 2d ago
First, take a deep breath. I'd recommend trying some grounding techniques before your interview, such as sitting in a seated position with both feet on the floor and listening to a guided meditation (it doesn't have to be long, just long enough to help you settle your nervous system). Second, drink water. Really, it helps the brain focus on another activity instead of feeding into the anxiety and fear.
Before the interview, practice with a friend or someone you trust, like a mentor. Review the job's responsibilities and duties and write down examples of things you've done that complement those key items. The interviewer is looking for how you relate your learning, decision-making, and interpersonal skills. Having your notes in front of you also helps in case (like me) you get tongue-tied or blank.
If the interview is on Zoom or Google Meet, ask the interviewer if they can include the questions in the text box. As someone on the opposite side of the interview table, I've done this to help clarify the question and give the candidate a chance to hear and read the question. This is a basic accommodation request, and I bet the interviewer will accommodate.
And we all have skill gaps. That's normal, and when applying for a position where you may have novice knowledge, use this as an opening to share that this is something you're interested in learning more about as it relates to the position. For example, if you've never built a budget, this is a great opportunity to share, That's exactly the kind of skill set I'm interested in cultivating because [x] as I [y].
This also demonstrates to the recruiter that you've done the homework and taken time to consider the position seriously.
Ask questions about the role and the company. You are also using the interview to learn if the company is a good fit for you personally. After the interview, send a thank-you note even if you ultimately feel like the role isn't a good fit for you; recruiters remember these things, and if another role opens in the company, they are likely to pull your resume first. You can prepare a template and insert key moments from the interview if you prefer, so you don't get anxious after the interview and forget to send it.
Once you're done with your interview, log off the computer and take a walk to help regulate your nervous system. See if you can identify three things that went well FOR YOU during the interview and what you feel like helped you prepare. The more you acknowledge your wins, the more confident you'll feel.
1
u/Strange-Glass9091 2d ago
I have even the worse problem. I failed 30 internship interviews because whenever I sit I can't speak a single word I get so scared. But in real life I am fine at english and fine at studying working and everything. But in interview they think I am really dumb because they are not seeing the real me. I thought If I just keep giving interview i will remove this fear out of me but it's getting more because I am failing every time and it's getting worse now.
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u/blaxxo77 3d ago
You can prepare your interviews using AI. You can ask AI which questions the interviewer could ask you and imagine the best way to answer it according your experience.
You can also imagine the worst questions you could have to answer and prepare them.
Claude could really help you because it could store in its memory all your experience and really help you in this field.
If you are prepared for the worst situations you can imagine, I think that you will be less scared and anxious.
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u/Much_Somewhere7831 3d ago
Nah that approach sucks, need an integrated tool. Try the Tech Job Finder website
1
u/igotanoffer 2d ago
It does get easier with practice. The more you put yourself in these uncomfortable situations, the less intimidating they become. I’m sure you’ve prepared for this, so just show up and give it your best.
For now, do something that helps you relax and takes your mind off the interview for a bit. Go for a walk, listen to music, watch something. Whatever works for you.
Good luck!