Know where the Interview is.
There’s nothing like arriving at a job interview and realizing you don’t know exactly where the meeting is. Use google maps to know where your going, and if possible, drive there several days prior. If you can enter the building, even find the exact room you’ll need to visit on your big day.
Get your Sleep.
Anxiety because of an upcoming interview is no fun, and a lack of sleep will set you back for the day. Get as much sleep as possible for several days leading up to your interview.
Know who you’re Interviewing with.
Do as much research as possible about the company you are interviewing with. The more you know about them, the better you will be able to speak with confidence when asked questions probing your understanding of your potential new employer.
Practice the Hard Interview Questions.
Prepare! Ask a friend, another nurse, colleague, or family member to play the role of the interviewer, and practice looking them in the eye and responding to the questions that are hardest for you. Practice really does help nervous interviewees feel less anxious about the tough questions.
Its a 2-way Conversation.
If you go into an interview feeling like you’re on trial, you’re going to be nervous; it’s a two-way conversation and you should treat it that way. Remember that you are also interviewing them; and be prepared to ask questions during your interview.
Relax and take your time.
When asked a question, think for a moment, and gather your thoughts before responding. If you need more time before answering, taking a sip of water can give you a few seconds to ponder your response. If you’re taking notes during the interview (which, by the way, is recommended), you can be doing so as the question is asked, and use your note-taking as a way to buy a few seconds. Just be sure not to bury your face in your notebook and avoid eye contact.
Take notes.
Taking notes can help when considering your response to a difficult question. Having a pen and notebook in your lap also gives you something to do with your hands so you don’t appear nervous.
Dress comfortably.
You certainly want to look good for your interview, so choose clothes that fit well, feel good against your skin, and help you to feel confident, professional, and attractive.
Eat and hydrate well before your interview.
If your interview is in the morning, a healthy breakfast will certainly set you up for a great day. Avoid foods and drinks that are known to cause you an upset stomach or gas. As an example, carbonated drinks may cause belching at inopportune times, and you certainly want to avoid foods or drinks that usually don’t agree with you.
Breathe.
Breathing calms the sympathetic nervous system and reduces anxiety. Make sure you take a few moments here and there to take some deep breaths.
Consider all your Options.
You may not get hired as a result of your first interview. Do not let it discourage you. There are always many job opportunities available, therefore you should always search for, and interview for multiple jobs to find the right one for you.