You have the qualifications, the experience and know you’re the right fit for the job. But you find yourself losing focus when facing the interviewer. It’s time to realign as unwavering focus sends out a powerful message to prospective employers.
Try these Best tips to stay focused during an interview and succeed the job you want:
1. Before Interview
The minutes before an interview are the toughest. One is never quite sure of what to do – social networking, a chat with a friend or flip through a magazine? Anything that shifts your single-mindedness is a bad idea.
Get your thoughts in sync with your goal.
- Why are you here?
- How important is this job to you?
Asking yourself these questions can help you realign and stay focused of the purpose of your interview.
2. Focus on your skills
In order to concentrate during the interview, think of one or two things that you would like your interviewer to remember you for. Is it your knowledge, communication skills or project management achievements? Zeroing in on a few things will keep your brain alert and absorbed.
3. Review your notes
You have already done your research and rehearsals. Review your notes mentally before you face the interviewer. Recall the keywords in the job listing, your major achievements and your strengths. But don’t fret if you can’t mentally rehearse everything. You need to be confident, not nervous.
4. Think happy and positive thoughts
Good thoughts will relax your mind and release happy hormones. A calm and happy employee is always a welcome addition to any team and company.
5. Stay calm and keep your mind clear
An interview room can be intimidating for the person being interviewed, and stress can inhibit your ability to think clearly. Ensure you remain calm and collected. This will help you to listen better and best answer questions.
6. Sit up straight
An upright and alert posture will keep your mind sharp. Slouching or leaning on the chair not only makes you feel lazy but also makes a poor impression on the interviewer.
7. Silent your cell phone
Make sure you switch off your cell phone or switch to silent mode to avoid any distraction. Constant pinging sounds or a phone call will disrupt your thoughts and you won’t be able to focus and it will show a very bad impression to the Interviewer.
8. Participate in the conversation
If the interview is one-sided, it indicates that you’ve lost your way. The interviewer will appreciate you if you are able to have a conversation and make your point clearly. Remember, that apart from hard skills, the interviewer is also looking for soft skills.
9. Don’t lose patience
Realize that the interviewer may use tactics to put you in an uncomfortable position or trick you by looking unhappy or dissatisfied with your answers. Don’t lose patience. Try controlled breathing and remind yourself why you are in that room.
10. Make up for a mistake
If you feel you messed up, try and revive the situation. If you need more time, ask the interviewer a question so that you can gather your thoughts.
It is not always easy to stay focused during an interview – more so if you feel it’s not going well. But staying alert, calm and confident on the interview and interviewer sends out the message that you can stay cool even when in the hot seat. You come off as a confident contender, recommending yourself to the employer by your behavior and body language.
Good Luck in your Interview!
