How to Keep Your Cool During an Interview
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Have you ever had trouble keeping your cool during an important interview? Actually, overcoming this common problem, although difficult at times, is one of the major factors which contribute to the assurance of a successful interview. Perhaps you arrive at an interview for that new job you really want after a long, sleepless night due to your childÂ’s bout with the flu, or the constant, nervous barking of your brand new puppy. Maybe you get trapped in the middle of a rush hour traffic jam, arriving half an hour late to your appointment with the human resources director at your potential new workplace. Maybe you arrive promptly for your interview, but forget to bring along the folder or CD containing your updated resume, employment history and career goals. Any and all of these predicaments can lead to anxiety, causing you to lose your composure and focus.
Be Well Prepared, Informed and Rehearsed

In order to avoid problems with nervousness, anxiety, or feeling out of place during an interview – whether you are seeking a new job, a volunteer position at your favorite cultural center, or membership in your school or community chorus – you must always be well prepared for any questions you may be asked by the interviewer. Of course, youÂ’ll want to know your own educational background, employment history and career goals and ambitions by heart, so you can easily discuss any aspect of them whenever appropriate. In addition, youÂ’ll need to research the company where you are applying for a job so you can be well informed concerning company history, achievements, objectives, goals, products and services. The greater the extent of the knowledge and interest you display during your interview related to the company or organization, the better your chances of landing the new job or position you desire. It is often helpful to try your communication skills out on a friend or family member before the day of your interview. Subsequently, youÂ’ll feel more at ease to talk freely with your interviewer, revealing your knowledge, interests, concerns and ideas clearly and concisely.
State Clearly How Your Talents and Skills Will Benefit This New Position

When you come to an interview prepared to explain how your own special talents and skills will benefit the position you are seeking, your commitment and enthusiasm will override any nervousness or lack of confidence you may experience initially. Everyone likes to hear what you are willing and able to do for them, and the fact that you express your genuine interest in the purpose, goals and success of the company or concern where you are interviewing is a strong factor in your favor for being hired or accepted.
Be Honest About Your Financial and Scheduling Requirements and Preferences

Be sure to clarify your personal financial and scheduling requirements and preferences during the interview. YouÂ’ll find that expressing your own thoughts and needs not only benefits the interviewer and possibly saves him or her asking more questions, but also serves as a calming technique for you. Especially in todayÂ’s uncertain economy, when you are seeking a new job, adequate salary and benefits (as well as a convenient work schedule) are of utmost concern and importance to you. YouÂ’ll want to be sure the interviewer makes all that is available and relevant to you in these areas very clear. And then, when these basics have been discussed, you can relax and enjoy the rest of your interview free of any jitters, worries or anxiety.

Louise Baker ranks online degrees for Zen College Life. She most recently wrote about the best colleges online.