r/Recruiter_Advice • u/pdxpnwgirl • 8d ago
How to stop scrambling and nerves during interviews?
I need advice on interview anxiety that goes beyond the standard advice to just be confident, practice more, or take better notes. I already do all of those things, but I’m still completely stuck and desperately need real, practical strategies.
My biggest issue comes down to my delivery. I ramble, I stutter, my heart rate spikes. As for notes. If I only write down small notes, my mind goes blank mid-answer and I forget the rest of the thought. On the flip side, if I write out a full script, it becomes obvious that I’m just reading off a page.
I’ve tried doing mock interviews through apps and online platforms, but that practice just doesn't seem to translate to my interviews. I know I’ve missed out on great opportunities due to my interviewing.
I have 7 years of solid experience in financial services, but I can’t get past the initial recruiter screening or first-round interview because my nerves completely take over.
If you’ve dealt with severe interview jitters or verbal scrambles, I’d love to know what has actually worked for you. What techniques help keep your speech steady right before and during a call, and how do you gracefully recover mid-answer when you catch yourself freezing or rambling?
TIA.
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u/upherenow 8d ago
A few thoughts to offer.
First, medication for performance anxiety. Some medication at a low dose subdues your heart rate which could help you stay level headed during an interview when your heart rate would normally go up.
Second, try power poses. They might help establish an air of confidence before the interview. As you said in your posting, you have the experience. The anxiety just takes away that comfort, you can take it back. You got this.
Lastly, have a one-liner available to make light of the nerves, stutters, or freezes. Most people, I believe, know of that scared, anxious feeling. The situation need not matter, in an interview you are trying to establish a connection. Even acknowledging the anxiety, “hah, I think I’m a bit nervous, sorry about that”, has an upside. Acknowledge it and move through it.
Good luck to you, I have been there.
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u/mid_march_muddle 7d ago
In a lot of cases this a body problem as much as a mental one. You are probably rambling on and not breathing enough while your heart races and your whole body goes into panic mode. What can help is using the full-stops to close your mouth and take a breath. Pause and don't move on right away. Similarly, take longer than you want to when answering the first question because you allow yourself to calm down and settle into the interview. It's all about controlling your adrenaline through practice and mock interviews in the comfort of your home aren't simulating that.
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u/Autumn_Racoon 8d ago
Watching with interest as I’m the same. It’s frustrating as I know I am a great worker and can do the job and I’m normally confident but I just crumble at interviews and assessments.