How to Best Ease Interview Jitters; Making it Simple
By PERRI CAPELL
Wall Street Journal
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June 19, 2007
Q: I left my company three years ago, and now I need to find a new job. The problem is I become overwhelmed with anxiety in interviews and miss what's being said.
A: Interviewing for a new job isn't something people do regularly so it's no wonder candidates get sweaty palms. Your fear of interviewing is likely compounded by the thought of answering questions about why you left your last job and why you haven't worked in so long.
Start by thinking about the questions you'll be asked and writing down the answers. Next, rehearse out loud. If possible, have a friend conduct mock interviews, says Sally Chopping, a public-speaking coach in Pittsburgh.
Short and simple explanations work best, says Robin Ryan, a career coach in Seattle. Also, realize that being laid off could be a nonissue to an interviewer. She suggests saying something like, "My company wanted to make a change and move in a different direction and that's why I'm available." To explain why you haven't worked recently, say something like, "A family member was ill and I needed to stay home and help. I knew this would take time and it wasn't fair to start a new job." Don't embellish or add anything to your answers.
