How To Have A Successful Interview Or Exam

Some women are naturally better at taking exams and interviewing than others. But that doesn’t mean you can’t improve those highly coveted skills. Fortunately, I’ve been able to learn how to stay cool in these stressful situations over the years. That’s not to say that I didn’t feel the pressure. I did. The reason why some people sweat, get butterflies, and even tremble is that what they’re doing is important to them. It’s about landing that dream job or acing that exam that will put you at the top of your class or get you into the university you want. And, there is nothing wrong with that. So, if it’s that important, it’s worth learning how to do your best. Here are a few of my best tips for having a successful interview or exam.

Stress and Anxiety Management: I learned how to keep my cool under pressure, so I’ve trained my kids and clients to do the same when faced with general anxiety. It’s not some secret…really. The truth is they’ve developed some clever coping techniques. The trick is to use them frequently enough that it becomes second nature. I use many coping techniques when anxiety hits, whether it’s for an interview or some other important task. Don’t underestimate simple techniques like reflexology, meditation, EFT, counting down, deep breathing, and other quick remedies. The other thing is to listen to your body and analyze what it is exactly that is bothering you. Awareness is your best friend. 

Be Prepared: When it comes to exams and interviews, the best thing you can do is be prepared to the best of your ability. Of course, that means you have to study for that exam. Find something about the material that really interests you, that way you won’t get bored and lose focus. And, for an interview, there are some things to do to increase your chances of acing it. Write out the questions you expect to be asked and practice answering them with friends and family. Practice speaking confidently and clearly into the mirror or even record yourself.  And, let your personality come through.

Be Mindful: Some people get flustered under pressure, and this can cause loss of mental focus. Practicing mindfulness is a popular way to help provide clarity and relevance of thought. Techniques like meditation, positive mantras, chanting, singing, affirmations, and other forms of self-talk are simple ways to pull your mind back to center.  Yoga also improves your ability to stay calm and focused. I have also discovered that staying healthy, fit and getting the proper brain nutrients makes a huge difference in my mental focus, especially when you have to take a test. Nootropics Manufacturer Zenigen suggests that supplements can enhance your thought process and provide you with extra brain power for those complicated questions.

Stay Nourished and Hydrated: Your brain and body needs energy to perform. Make sure to eat a light meal about an hour before your test or interview so you don’t get hungry and distracted. You body will have time to digest your food and convert it into the energy you need to do your best. Eating too close to the event may slow you down and actually cause nausea if you are nervous. Which reminds me…take some mints with you just in case your tummy does get upset. Be well hydrated the night before and the day of your important exam or meeting. Take a bottle of water with you if you can.

Last minute Focus: When you finally get to your exam or interview, take a deep breath, exhale, and smile. And, remember, this is the time to recall all of your past triumphs not your self-proclaimed failures. Focus on having a positive outcome. Hold your head up high with your shoulders down and make eye contact. You can do this! You know your shit, and this is your moment to shine. One last thing: try not to get attached to the results of this event. If you don’t get the job, sale, access, the A, the new partner, it’s OK. That just means that the universe has something else for you. Just know that you are valuable no matter what happens. 

***This post is strictly informational and is not meant to replace the advice of your health care provider. Women’s LifeLink, it’s owners, authors, editors, affiliate, vendors, and contributors do not claim that any of this information will diagnose, cure, or make better any condition, disease, or mental or physical ailment.