(6) Ways to reduce social anxiety during job interviews

When I was a recent college graduate, I met with company managers as part of the hiring process. I can recall one of my first in on-site job interviews.

I had researched this firm and practiced answering potential interview questions. I was a bit nervous, but that is expected in this type of situation. Either I would get the job offer or not. It seemed so simple.

I waited in the lobby for a few minutes until I was called into the hiring manager’s office. I sat down in the interview chair. I felt relaxed during the introductions and pleasantries.

When the interviewer began to focus on me, I started to perspire. Granted, I was wearing a starched shirt and warm wool blazer, but the office was air-conditioned. My forehead started dripping with sweat.

 I became so focused on it that my attention drew further and further away from the conversation. I kept hoping that the sweating would stop. It started to show through my light blue button-down shirt.

I was wondering if it was noticeable to the interviewer. Instead of focusing on my answers to his questions, I became very self-conscious.

I concentrated on taking full belly breaths, trying to calm myself down so I could focus on the interviewer. I was very relieved when the meeting ended but it was far from my best performance.

I did not want this scenario to happen again. I read books on how to curb anxiety. I researched best practices to ensure that I would be more relaxed for my next interview.

Cultivating a regular meditation practice was helpful in developing greater presence. I started doing daily yoga stretches for relaxation. Rigorous exercise proved to be a great anxiety reducer as well.

Based upon my disappointing job interview I took some actions to be better prepared for the next one. I put together the following list of pre-interview suggestions:

1. Start a regular meditation practice so you can be present and breathe easily.

2. Start a yoga practice to relax your body and mind.

3. Dress as lightly as possible so it is easier to keep your body temperature down.

4. Wear a white shirt so if perspiration does start, it will not be very noticeable.

5. Do a rigorous workout before each job interview, to burn off nervous energy.

6. Prior to events that may bring anxiety, close your car windows and yell as loudly as possible to release pent-up nervous energy.

Hopefully, you can use the suggestions above to improve your performance in job interviews.

With practice, you will be well-equipped to bring your best self.