Don't Sweat It - How To Keep Your Cool In a Job Interview

So you're looking for a job - along with what must seem like the rest of the world. You may have been searching for some time with no success. With the limited job market and high unemployment figures, you may feel as if you will never land that job you want - and need. While one article like this cannot possibly provide all the answers, I do have some tips for making the most of the job interviews you do get.
Even in the best of economic times, a job interview can be a daunting experience. You may feel so much pressure that sweating palms, armpits and body are a common experience. As a result, your anxiety increases to the point that you concentrate on how nervous you are rather than on making the best impression. However, this doesn't have to happen to you. Keep these ideas in mind as you prepare for, and go through, your next job interview.


1. Assume the Right Mental Attitude.
Sweating is often caused by a feeling of anxiousness - which is completely understandable under the circumstances. Don't discount the practice of simply slowing down, breathing deeply and slowly and telling yourself to relax. The more you imagine yourself as calm and confident the more you will experience this feeling mentally and physically. Play the game of acting "as if" you were calm, cool, and collected.This may sound like so much hocus pocus to you but it works.
2. Prepare for the Specific Interview.
I recommend the following preparation for each individual interview:

• Research the job profile of the position for which you are applying.
• Learn all about the company and its background. You will probably be able to do this by browsing their website.
• Think of ways in which you, with your unique talents, might be of value to the company.
• Think of possible questions which may come up during the interview.
• Practice your answers to the possible questions either in front of the mirror or with a friend acting as the job interviewer.
• Related to Tip #1, concentrate on being confident in your abilities, skills and talents and how they can be applied to this job.

3. Adopt Lifestyle Changes.
For successful job interviews in general, you may have to adopt some lifestyle and diet habits if they are not already part of your daily routine.

• Avoid sugary, spicy and salty foods as well as caffeine. These can cause you to sweat excessively during the job interview.
• Eat foods including whole grains, peas, nuts, eggs, bananas, carrots, sweet potatoes, oranges and watermelons.
• Take a cold shower the morning of the interview and apply a good antiperspirant.
• Wear comfortable business attire that allows your body to breathe. Materials such as silk, satin, and cotton are the best.
• Allow yourself plenty of time to get to the interview so that you do not become stressed about being late.

Admittedly, the job market is tight. However, as simple as they may sound, these three steps will help ease the pressure on you if you put them into practice. Assume a calm attitude, adopt some lifestyle changes, and educate yourself on the company with which you are interviewing and "don't sweat it."

Jack Lambert is an avid reader on a wide variety of subjects and enjoys writing about them all. He has personally experienced extended unemployment so he knows how you feel. He has practiced and believes in what he writes and hopes you will benefit from what he has written.