Handling Tough Job Interviews

There I was, ready for my Very Important Job Interview -- dressed professionally, resume in briefcase, hair (for once) in perfect order. I was nervous, of course, but relatively confident, even though this was my first time applying for a Real Job, a grown-up person's job, something other than retail or pizza delivery. Everything was going well, despite a bit of rambling on my part towards the beginning, then came the Question. It doesn't matter what it is; suffice it to say it was a question about the business, and I didn't know it. My interviewer sat, staring me dead in the eye, waiting for an answer. I didn't have one. I started to sweat, looking frantically around the room as though the correct response might be written on the wall somewhere. Tick, tock, tick, tock...he was still waiting for the answer, and I just didn't know it. Finally he had to tell me, and then said, "We are looking to hire someone smart, someone with common sense". I indeed had always thought I had common sense, until that moment. Since then I have thought a lot about what I could do differently, and since hindsight is 20/20, maybe these ideas will help you more than me.

1. Breathe

Meditate. Don't be so nervous. When people are nervous they tend to ramble (like I did), or talk too loud or too softly, or freeze up (once again, like I did). It's fine to have a bit of the jitters, but if you are too tense you can't show off your full potential. Go to the gym and run or pound a punching bag before the interview, or do some yoga -- any kind of physical activity releases tension. When you get to the office or waiting room, take several deep breaths. It's much easier to think on your feet when you are relaxed.

2. Practice

Have someone do a mock interview with you. Research in books or online some common interview questions, such as "What makes you want to work here at XYZ? Do you see yourself here for the long term, or are you looking for a temporary position?". Have some answers ready so you won't have to make something up on the spot.

3. Be prepared

Be prepared to interview with more than one person. After my grueling Q&A session, I had to interview with his assistant, then with his partner. Carry more than one resume with you just in case. Oh, and put an extra quarter in the parking meter. I learned that one the hard way as well.

4. Your life does not depend on it

Remember it's not a life or death situation. It's a job interview. Putting it in perspective will help you remain calm.

5. Company Information

Learn as much as you can about the company before you go in. That will help with your answer to "Why do you want to work here?" And if you are asked a question to which you have no answer, you can at least make an educated guess, and throw in something that lets the interviewer know you have done your research.

If you take anything away from this, I hope it is that being prepared both with answers and with a calm attitude will help you more than anything. But even if the interview goes horribly wrong, you can go home and comfort yourself with a margarita and a movie rental. Life is good no matter what.