An applicant needs to have a job interview not just so they would have something to freak out over. Not just to tell someone how desperate motivated they are. But to also collect information on their possible employer to figure out whether they are a good fit.
However, according to a recent survey from JDP, a majority of candidates (93%) experience anxiety because of a job interview. We worry that we won't be able to answer a difficult question, that we won't come off as intended, or simply that we'll look nervous. It's universal. But that means we might forget what a great opportunity this is to learn more about the position (and company) we're applying to.
So HR specialist Tani is trying to remind us. Recently, she posted a TikTok video listing the gutsy questions she thinks job applicants should ask their interviewers.
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Image credits: taniracqurwrld
Tani is a solution-driven HR executive with almost three decades of experience. "My knowledge and expertise in working with high-performance companies over the past 24 years have shown me the inside operations of how executives think about HR and employees," she told Bored Panda. "My desire to become an HR advocate to people who may not know how HR operates 'for' them is my reason for the video content I create."
The number one solution that she shares with people about interview anxiety is the fact that the company needs them more than they need a job.
"The company paid money for an ad and will continue to spend, only on the hiring process. The next advice I give them is to practice interviewing by role-playing with someone. Finally, confidence is key; be confident in your skillset. Breathe and continue to remember, 'you're doing a fine job."
Tani wanted to add that most employees would be empowered if they understood HR's position from a professional angle. Continue to follow her for more content on that.
Image credits: taniracqurwrld
According to Dr. Tamar Chansky, the author of Freeing Yourself from Anxiety, "When we perceive that we are in a high stakes situation, the brain doesn't distinguish the high stakes of a job interview--where it would help to be calm, cool, and collected--from the high stakes of being under threat from attack (say, from a tiger)."
"The body responds the same way--gearing up to run or fight for our lives. We experience a myriad of highly inconvenient and uncomfortable reactions which would make complete sense if there really were a tiger there," Dr. Chansky told Forbes.
So what can we do to ease the stress? Ashley Strausser, associate director of the Center for Career and Professional Development at Otterbein University, thinks a successful interview begins with good preparation. "My biggest piece of advice to students is always do your research," Strausser said. Read up on the organization. Know their products, what they do, and who their competitors are. "You should also research the folks who will be interviewing you. View their LinkedIn profile and learn about their roles within the company."
It's not just about acing every question. Knowledge is power; the more you know, the more confident you'll feel during the interview.
Here's Tani's video
Kim Heitzenrater, director of career and leadership development at Sewanee: The University of the South, agrees. "The best way to stay calm is to be very prepared in every way possible," she said.
"Research the company and the industry, write down the questions you have for the interviewer, practice answers to anticipated questions aloud--either by yourself or with a friend or family member who will give you honest feedback, and write down the three to five things you want the interviewer to know about you before the interview ends so you can tailor your answers appropriately."
Employers want to know that you're a good fit for not only the position but also the entire organization. Homework helps you see the big picture.
And here's some more HR-related content she has shared
Some people think these questions are perfect
But others doubt their usefulness
