The Night Before and Morning of the Interview

Even if you wouldn't describe it as anxiety, you may not feel completely calm the night before an interview. You are human, after all. Spend a relaxing evening at home. Soaking in a hot tub or curling up with a good book is sure to calm you down. If you can, try not to think too much about the job interview. Have some caffeine-free herbal tea to help you relax. Remember, caffeine can be found in substances other than coffee, including chocolate and many over-the-counter medications. Read labels carefully. When in doubt, avoid taking anything that may act as a stimulant and keep you from getting a good night's sleep.

Get to bed early if possible. You will want to have a full night's sleep so you appear well rested for the interview. Dark circles under the eyes never enhanced anyone's looks. If you are sleepy, you won't be alert and you may have difficulty paying attention during the interview.

Give yourself plenty of time in the morning to get ready. If you have to rush around, you will only add to your anxiety. Be ready to deal with any problems you didn't anticipate, like a run in your stockings or a stain on your favorite shirt. Make sure you have backups.

Don't forget to eat a good breakfast before you leave the house. Nutritionists have lectured for years that this is the best way to start your day off right. If you are hungry, you won't be able to concentrate. Besides, a growling stomach during a job interview would be very embarrassing.

Don't overdo your coffee consumption the day of your interview. Many people get jittery from even a little too much caffeine. Of course, the day of your interview is not the time to go off caffeine cold turkey. You should have a cup of coffee if you need it to get you going, but don't have two, three, or four cups. If you are already feeling a little nervous, this will just exacerbate it.

Finally, take a moment to concentrate on the job for which you are interviewing. Tell yourself why you like the job, and repeat your strengths to yourself. This will give you a positive start to the day, and you'll be able to go to the interview confident and focused.

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