Question

Shannon is incredibly nervous about applying for a job, and she is concerned that her nerves will make a bad impression on her prospective employer. What are some things Shannon can do to help her appear confident?

Answer 1

Short answer: practice, prepare, and use simple body- and breath-control techniques so nerves don’t show. Below are practical, easy-to-do steps Shannon can use before and during an interview to appear calm and confident.

Before the interview
- Prepare and rehearse
- Learn the company and the role, and prepare 4–6 concrete stories (use the STAR format: Situation, Task, Action, Result) that show your skills.
- Practice answers to common questions out loud and do a couple of mock interviews with a friend or record yourself on video to check posture and tone.
- Prepare a 30–60 second “elevator” summary of who you are and why you’re a fit.
- Plan logistics
- Arrive early (10–15 minutes) so you’re not rushed. Give yourself time to compose.
- Dress one step more professional than the company norm and wear clothing that feels comfortable and confident.
- Reduce stimulants and eat lightly
- Avoid excess caffeine immediately before the interview; have a light meal or snack with protein so you’re not shaky or jittery.

Quick physical/mental warm-ups to do right before going in
- Breathing: take 3 slow diaphragmatic breaths (inhale for 4, hold 1–2, exhale for 6). Longer exhales calm the nervous system.
- Shoulder/neck loosen: roll shoulders and shake out hands to release tension.
- Positive recall: spend 30 seconds remembering a recent success so you enter with a confidence memory.
- “Power pose” briefly (standing with shoulders back, feet hip-width, arms relaxed or hands on hips) for 1–2 minutes if it helps you feel grounded.

Body language during the interview
- Posture: sit up straight with shoulders back and chest open. Don’t slouch or cross your arms.
- Eye contact: maintain natural eye contact (look at the interviewer’s eyes or slightly below the eyes). Break gaze periodically—staring is unnatural.
- Smile and nod: a genuine smile and occasional nods show engagement and ease.
- Hands: keep gestures calm and purposeful; rest hands on your lap or the table. Avoid fidgeting with hair, jewelry, or your phone.
- Handshake: if appropriate, offer a firm but not crushing handshake. (If the company is following pandemic precautions, follow their lead.)

Voice and speaking
- Slow down: nerves make people speak fast. Deliberately slow your pace and enunciate.
- Lower your pitch slightly and project from your diaphragm — it conveys control.
- Use pauses: it’s okay to take a second to think before answering. Say “That’s a great question — let me think for a moment” if you need time.
- Keep answers structured and concise; end with a summary sentence that reinforces your main point.

If you feel nervous during the interview
- Take a sip of water, breathe, and then continue.
- If you blank, ask the interviewer to repeat or reframe the question. That’s normal and professional.
- Briefly acknowledge nerves only if it helps: “I’m excited about this opportunity so I’m a bit nervous — but I’d love to answer that.” Don’t over-apologize.
- Redirect to prepared stories/skills when possible.

Small props and aids
- Bring a printed resume, a list of bullet points or questions to ask, and a notepad. Glancing at your notes is professional and gives you a moment to collect thoughts.
- If interviewing virtually: put the camera at eye level, look at the camera when speaking, ensure good lighting, and minimize background distractions.

Longer-term strategies (if anxiety is frequent)
- Regular practice with mock interviews, public speaking groups, or coaching.
- Learn relaxation techniques (mindfulness, CBT tools) or seek professional help if anxiety is severe.

If Shannon practices these steps, she’ll be able to manage her nerves and present a calm, confident version of herself. Would you like a short script or a list of common interview questions and strong sample answers she can practice?