INTERVIEW JITTERS

I often feel this way whenever I have interviews. Especially an hour or two before the actual time. Why? Is it because I am not prepared or I am not comfortable with my conversational skills? Maybe or maybe not.

I know that it is not just me who goes through the same situation. I think it is normal for a person to be nervous at some point. Even if you are the best applicant and have numerous accomplishments under your sleeves. A few hours before and until the moment you face an interviewer, that electrifying feeling is present. It seems like your last day on earth is now. Hands are shaking like there’s an earthquake. Suddenly forgot your name and where you live. Can’t speak straight, a lot of uhm’s and huh. The things you hold suddenly slip down. Everything is out of control.

Cold palms, palpitations, frequent urination, slurred speech or dysarthria (thanks Google for the extra knowledge) and disorientation are some of the manifestations of my interview jitters. It is too much to handle. I was told to breathe in and breathe out to release the tension. Can’t argue with that. I find it effective.

As explained in Science, “the primary role of breathing is to absorb oxygen and to expel carbon dioxidethrough the movement of the lungs. Muscles that control the movement of the lungs are the diaphragm (a sheet of muscle underneath the lungs) and the muscles between the ribs”. But make sure you do not overdo it. “Shallow over-breathing, orhyperventilation, can prolong feelings of anxiety by making the physical symptoms of stress worse. Controlling your breathing can help to improve some of these symptoms”.

I try to overcome this feeling every time. I have to, or else, I’m screwed and never get the job that I wanted.