How to deal with interview FEAR

Knowing how to deal with interview fear is essential, since an interview is your opportunity to demonstrate what you are made of. But for most people, the anxiety we tend to feel is due to the fear of the unknown.

Fear is just False Expectations Appearing Real

Try to think of FEAR standing for False Expectations Appearing Real. Look, the reality is that you are unique. No one looks like you, thinks like you or has your personality.

Think about your experience and what you could bring to the job. So accentuate the positive but be sure you can confidently handle questions about your weaknesses.

By making sure your CV talks about your achievements, the positive things you have done that stand out, it will help to set the scene. 

Preparation to Overcome Interview Fear

Be prepared; know your stuff, do your research about the company and practice answers to difficult questions. (There are plenty of books to help you with this.)  This will engender confidence.

Arrive early. Offer a good, firm handshake at the introduction and maintain eye contact throughout the interview.

Ask questions! Good questions will impress the interviewer. Support your answers with examples and points you want to make.

Breathe deeply, smile, and try to relax. Focus positively and feel confident. You can overcome the fear.

“One of the greatest discoveries a man makes, one of his great surprises, is to find he can do what he was afraid he couldn’t do.” (Henry Ford)