What To Do To Reduce Stress Before A Phone Interview?

Ace Your Pre-Interview Game: Reducing Stress Before The Big Call

Phone interviews can feel like walking a tightrope, balancing precariously between wanting to impress and fearing to stumble. However, stress, while a common prelude to the main event, can be significantly reduced with the right prep work. Here’s how to transform nervous energy into confidence before the receiver even comes off the hook.

Dial Down the Tension: Practical Tips for a Calmer You

• Knowledge Is Power: Begin by burrowing into the company’s ethos. A deep dive into their website, recent press releases, and ratings on platforms like Glassdoor can offer insights that turn the tables in your favor. When you know them inside and out, you’re less likely to be caught off-guard.

• Practice Makes Perfect: Mock interviews with a friend can do wonders. Get comfy articulating your strengths, weaknesses, and rehearsing answers to common questions. This prep work ensures your responses roll off the tongue, reducing those “Umm” moments.

• The Environment Counts: Choose your interview location wisely. A quiet, comfortable spot where you’re less likely to be interrupted? Check. Having water on hand to avoid a dry throat? Double-check. The right environment can set the stage for a stellar performance.

• Dress the Part: Even though it’s a phone call, dressing professionally can mentally put you in the ‘zone’. It’s like a signal to your brain saying, “It’s go time!”

• Tech Test-Drive: A technical glitch can send your stress levels through the roof. Ensure your phone is charged, and you have good reception or a strong Wi-Fi signal if it’s a VoIP call. A pre-interview tech check can save you a world of stress.

• Mindfulness and Movement: Don’t underestimate the power of a quick walk, deep-breathing exercises, or a short meditation session to clear your head before the call. Physical activity can shake off those jitters, and deep breathing can help center your thoughts.

• The Cheat Sheet: Jot down bullet points of what you want to convey. Having your resume, the job description, and notes on hand can provide a quick reference and reduce panic moments.

The Final Countdown: Embrace the Wait

In the antsy minutes before the interview:

• Stay Hydrated: A sip of water can do wonders for those dry mouth moments.

• Keep the Cheat Sheet Handy: A quick glance can reinforce your calm.

• Stay Positive: Remind yourself of your preparation. You’ve got this!

• Smile: It might sound silly, but smiling can actually trick your brain into feeling happier. Plus, it can make you sound more positive and energetic over the phone.

In the grand scheme of things, a phone interview is but a conversation. The more you view it as an opportunity to learn and share, the less daunting it will seem. So, next time the phone rings, take a deep breath, and remember: it’s just another human on the line, eager to hear what you have to offer.