What to Do When You Freeze During a Job Interview

Some time back, I was interviewing an applicant, and she froze after the first interview question.

Not because she didn't know the answer.

She was simply nervous.

Her voice started shaking, and she couldn't get her words out.

I paused the interview for a few seconds and told her to calm down. Once she settled herself, she answered the question confidently.

Here's what I want every job seeker to know.

It's normal to get nervous during an interview.

You may have prepared thoroughly, researched the company, and practised your answers, yet still feel nervous when the interview begins.

If your voice starts shaking or your mind goes blank, don't panic.

Here are a few things you can do.

1. Pause for a few seconds.

You don't have to answer immediately. Take a deep breath and give yourself a moment to gather your thoughts.

2. Calm yourself down.

Remind yourself that you're there to discuss your skills and experience. You don't have to be perfect.

3. Practise common interview questions.

Before every interview, take time to practise questions related to the role. Think about your answers and how you can explain your experience clearly.

4. Practise introducing yourself in one minute.

Learn how to briefly explain who you are, what you do, and the skills or experience you bring to the role.

You don't need to memorise every word. The goal is to become comfortable talking about yourself.

5. Don't let one difficult moment ruin the entire interview.

If you stumble over an answer, take a moment and continue. One nervous moment doesn't have to define your entire performance.

The more you practise, the more confident you'll become.

Remember, interviewers understand that candidates can get nervous. Give yourself a chance to settle down and show what you know.

You don't have to eliminate nervousness completely to perform well in an interview. Sometimes, you just need to pause, breathe, and continue.