Pre-Interview jitters are a very common occurance, as well they should be.  I tend to think that if you are not at all nervous then you are probably too confidant and it may come off disrespectfully in the interview.  It is better to come across confidant AND humble.

The following are my suggestions for how to deal with pre-interview jitters.

1.  If you are naturally nervous, lay off of the legal (and illegal) stimulants.  This means coffee and cigarettes.  Although you may think they calm you down they actually have the reverse affect.  Also, no one needs you to smell like an ash tray during an interview.

2.  Do whatever calms you down.  I like to have my interviews in the morning so there is less time for me to think and be nervous.  In the time before I leave for my interview I eat breakfast, walk my dog, listen to music, and take my time getting ready.  Rushing can make you extra jittery as well.  If you give yourself enough time you will have no reason to rush.

3.  Make sure you are prepared.  Do your research during the days prior to your interview, write out your questions, make sure you have your resumes printed out, and most importantly know where you are going.  You should drive by your interview location prior to your interview if at all possible.  Getting lost on your way to an interview shows you are unprepared.

4.  Give yourself enough time to get to your interview approximately 15 minutes early.  This gives you time to use the restroom, wash your hands, settle in, etc…

5.  Give yourself a pep talk.  Whatever you need to say to yourself to reassure your nerves.

If you have any other tips, feel free to let me know

Jessica Moomaw