Feeling nervous before a job interview is completely normal, it means you care about the opportunity and want to do well. The key is learning how to manage those nerves so they don’t get in the way of showing your best self. At The OPRA Group, we’ve helped hundreds of candidates prepare for interviews, and here are our tried-and-tested tips to help you walk in with confidence.
Before the Interview
1. Prepare Thoroughly
Nothing calms nerves like preparation. Research the company, understand the role, and practice answering common interview questions. Write down examples of your achievements using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). The more you prepare, the less you’ll rely on memory under pressure.
2. Practice Out Loud
Reading answers in your head isn’t the same as saying them out loud. Practise with a friend, family member, or even in front of a mirror. This builds confidence in your delivery and helps you refine your answers.
3. Plan Your Journey
If it’s an in-person interview, know exactly how you’re getting there, where to park, and how long it will take. For virtual interviews, test your tech in advance and choose a quiet, professional setting.
4. Use Visualisation
Spend a few minutes imagining yourself walking into the interview, shaking hands, speaking clearly, maintaining confident eye contact, and leaving with a smile. This mental rehearsal helps train your brain for success.
5. Breathe to Relax
Try the 4-7-8 technique: breathe in for 4 seconds, hold for 7, breathe out for 8. This slows your heart rate and reduces anxiety.
During the Interview
6. Slow Down
When we’re nervous, we tend to speak faster. Pause before answering a question to collect your thoughts as it shows confidence and gives you a moment to breathe.
7. Focus on the Conversation
Instead of thinking about ‘performing’, focus on having a genuine conversation. Remember, interviews are a two-way process, you’re also seeing if the company is the right fit for you.
8. Positive Body Language
Sit up straight, maintain eye contact, and smile when appropriate. Non-verbal communication is just as important as what you say.
9. Reframe the Nerves
Remind yourself that adrenaline is your body’s way of preparing you for action. Those butterflies can give you extra energy if you channel them positively.
10. Have Questions Ready
Asking thoughtful questions at the end of the interview shows interest and takes the focus off you for a moment, giving you a breather.
Get Ready To Shine!
Nerves may never disappear completely and that’s fine. The goal isn’t to eliminate them, but to control them so they work for you, not against you. With preparation, practice, and the right mindset, you can step into your next interview feeling composed, confident, and ready to shine.
At The OPRA Group, we offer personalised interview coaching to help you present the best version of yourself. Whether it’s refining your answers or boosting your confidence, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
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