You have made it to the second stage of the interview process – congratulations! By now, you have made an impression in the first meeting and next time around, the interviewer will delve further into your experience, key skills, and suitability for the role. Whilst nerves are justified, these second interview jitters can be controlled! If you are a candidate looking to calm your nerves and ace your second-stage interview, have a read of our 8 top tips below.
- Be as prepared as possible
Pre-interview anxieties are best handled when you come fully prepared. If you feel confident in your research, you will be far more likely to go into the interview feeling encouraged and confident. Re-reading the job spec, thoroughly investigating the company via website, social channels and content and looking at the profiles of those interviewing you will help with your preparation. Get your questions prepared that also demonstrate key experience and a few deep breaths will calm you down.
- Identify yourself as the right candidate
Whilst you are likely to be competing against others, remember that you have already made an impression and are a brilliant candidate so focus on your own skills and experience. Recognising yourself as a candidate who is worth meeting again will help boost your confidence and encourage you to push your nerves to the side.
- Give yourself time and stay organised
Organisation is a crucial factor when trying to stay calm so whether you have an online or in-person second-stage interview, it is key that you come prepared, give yourself enough time, and try to avoid any last-minute complications. Where possible get to a face-to-face meeting early and have a coffee nearby, being late for an interview is always hard to manage. If it’s online, make sure technology supports you and check it’s all working ahead of time.
- Listen to someone inspirational
Whether you are speaking to a family member or friend, listening to a podcast, or blasting some upbeat music, filling your mind with excitement, energy, and motivation will distract your nerves and get you fired up for your second-stage interview. No matter whether you do this the night before or just before the interview, listening to something (or someone!) uplifting and inspirational, can put you in the right mental spot for your interview.
- Make sure to eat
A rumbling stomach is certainly not going to help you pull off a first-class interview so ensure that you prioritise eating something nutritious and energy-boosting just before your meeting. A good blood sugar level will also control your energy and your mood. Eat what feels right for you and possibly consider some of these brain-boosting foods!
- Approach the interview with the right mindset
Even though the interview will be a chance for the hiring manager to decide whether you’re a good fit, it is important to remember that this interview is also a chance for you to decide whether the company is the right fit for you. Interviews are a two-way process, also think around why the company would be lucky to have you.
- Plan something for after the interview
If you have booked the day off to go to your interview, why not plan something fun for after? Whether you choose to go for a meal, spend time outside, or chill indoors, having something to look forward to after your interview will settle some nerves and direct your attention away from interview jitters. You got to a second interview, you can do this!
- Try your best to relax
Working out, meditation, or breathing exercises are a great way to get some endorphins running, putting you in a great mental space and helping you feel more relaxed when going into your interview. Try to understand what makes you feel good and go from there. Even a short period of mindfulness before the interview can help, so keep calm and give it your best.
Whilst the interview process is not always smooth sailing, these 9 tips can help to calm some second interview jitters and put you in a better mental space ahead of your interview. If you want to be even more prepared for your interview, Spotlight have also offered some additional guidance and interview tips here. If you are a candidate considering a role in marketing, digital, or communications, do get in touch to find out more about the roles we have advertised and how Spotlight Recruitment can help.
NICOLA MONGON is the MD of Spotlight Recruitment, specialists in marketing, digital, and communications recruitment since 2008. Read our 5* Google reviews from candidates and clients to find out more. If you would like to discuss hiring plans or find out more about us, you can reach Spotlight at 020 3008 4254 or info@spotlightrecruitment.com
