Don't let interview nerves get the best of you.

If you're one of those rare individuals who doesn't get nervous in a job interview, kudos to you. For the rest of the population, anxiety before and during an interview can be incredibly difficult to control and has the power to totally derail your performance. 

It can be so hard, after all, to stay calm when you know so much is riding on this one conversation. And since many employers know whether they want to hire you within the first 90 seconds, it's critically important to learn to control interview nerves so that the real, amazing you can shine through from start to finish.

The good news? You can learn how to not be nervous for an interview and actually feel more confident when it counts.

Why people get nervous in job interviews

Interviews trigger stress for a simple reason: they feel like high-stakes tests. You're being judged, and the outcome could affect your future. That pressure can kick your brain into “fight or flight” mode – even if you're totally qualified for the role.

On top of that, interviews are often unpredictable. You don't know exactly what they'll ask or how the conversation will go. That uncertainty is what makes even confident people anxious.

The first step in learning how to not be nervous for an interview is understanding why it happens. When you know it's a normal reaction – not a personal flaw – it's easier to manage and move forward.

1. Prepare with purpose

One of the best ways to calm your nerves is to prepare. Review the job description, know your resume, and get familiar with the company. Plan your outfit ahead of time and gather everything you need.

Tailor your answers to the role. Think through how your past experience connects to the job – even if it's not a perfect match. Solid prep gives you control, which is key when you're learning how to not be nervous for an interview.

2. Know your brand

Think of yourself as a brand. Just like a product stands out on a shelf, you want to stand out in an interview. 

  • What do you do best? 

  • What problems do you solve? 

  • How do you work with others?

Before the interview, take time to answer those questions. Then, use your responses to shape how you talk about yourself. A clear message helps you stay focused and shows the interviewer what makes you different.

The clearer your message, the more confident you'll feel. That's a major step in learning how to not be nervous for an interview.

3. Find some humor

Just before you go into the job interview, do something that will make you laugh. Watch a funny video or read a few jokes. Laughter is a miracle “drug” that will do all sorts of wonderful things for your brain and body so you can relax and perform better in the interview. 

It boosts your mood, clears your head, and lowers stress, making it easier to stay calm and think clearly. Just keep it low-key. You want to walk into the interview smiling, not laughing.

Finding small ways to stay grounded is part of learning how to not be nervous for an interview.

4. Keep it in perspective

What happens if you don't get this job? There are other jobs out there. Remind yourself: the world won't end if you don't get it. 

You're strong. You're a fighter. And you know sometimes things work out better when they don't go the way you want. You can't control the outcome of the interview. You can only do your best and go forward from there. That mindset shift takes pressure off and helps you stay grounded when you're figuring out how to not be nervous for an interview.

5. You're interviewing them

Remember, an interview goes both ways. You're examining the company and have to determine if they're the right fit for you – just like they're trying to decide if you're the best person for their job. Interviews aren't just about proving yourself. They're your chance to see if the role, team, and culture fit you.

The best thing you can do? Walk in with questions. Think about what matters to you in a job. Reminding yourself that you're not powerless is a great way to ease anxiety – you're making a choice, too. In fact, that sense of control can be just what you need to help you figure out how to not be nervous for an interview. 

Related reading: 4 Subtle Ways to Evaluate a Company's Culture During an Interview

6. Focus on your goals

Before the interview, spend some time clarifying and focusing on your personal goals – not for your career or finances or life, but simply for the interview itself. Focus on one or two simple, short-­term goals will help you pull everything back to center so you can stay calm. These goals can include:

  • Finding out if this is a job I want.

  • Representing my brand.

  • Learning something from this experience.

When you get nervous, your thoughts flutter around like butterflies in your stomach. These goals give you something to come back to. It's a simple way to stay centered and a smart tactic when learning how to not be nervous for an interview.

7. Embrace your nervous energy

Being nervous isn't a weakness, rather, it's a sign that you care. Instead of trying to shut it down, channel that energy into focus. Nervousness and excitement feel the same in your body. Reframe it: you're not anxious – you're ready!

You don't need to tell the interviewer you're nervous. Just own the feeling and use it to stay present. That shift in mindset can be a game-changer when you're learning how to not be nervous for an interview.

8. They want to hire someone – why not you?!

A lot of people go into an interview expecting to hear trick questions. Interviewers aren't trying to trip you up. They want to find the right person for the role and that may very well be you. After all, they never would have called you in if they didn't see potential. 

Instead of trying to “win them over,” show them they're right about you. You are, after all, among the elite 2 percent of candidates who were called for an interview. When you think of it like that, it can take off some of the pressure and reinforce what you already know about how to not be nervous for an interview. 

Calm your nerves and show up READY!

Interview anxiety is normal, but it doesn't have to control you. With the right mindset, it is possible to change how you feel about job interviews. Proper preparation, the right perspective, and being laser-focused on presenting the best of yourself can help you gain control and not be nervous for your interview. 

Still breaking out into a sweat at the mere thought of an interview? Let our expert coaches help you today!

This article was originally written by Dena Workman. It's been updated by Marsha Hebert.

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