Second Interview Jitters: How to relax and stay ahead of the pack

Getting called back for a second interview can be overwhelming and it is completely normal for a multitude of competing thoughts to be circulating your mind. “Maybe I’ve got a good chance”, followed quickly by, “Hang on, how many other candidates also got called back?”. Then, the self-doubt and second-guessing tends to set in. This is commonly referred to as ‘second interview jitters’. CEO of Black Wolf Group, Tanya Abbey, reassures her clients that with the right preparation and mindset, you can overcome these anxious feelings and nail the second interview.

Remain confident, but don’t assume

Retaining your confidence will make all the difference in a second interview. Remember, you are being brought back for a second opportunity to show your value. This provides you with a great advantage. However, do not assume that the job is secured, keep showing your worth until the final decision has been made. You are likely up against a group of candidates with resumes, and work backgrounds, similar to your own – you need to stand out.

Stand out from the pack

“What’s the best way to stand out?” Show the interviewer how well you can connect and work with others. Do some homework before going in for the second interview. Find out who you might be meeting with this round: everything from their name through to some common ground you might share, as this will help to break the ice in the interview. You can easily find out some commonalities through their LinkedIn profiles or a quick Google search: use this time to learn about their work history, interests you may share, or even the school they attended (Who knows, you may have gone there yourself!). When you’re in the interview, ensure that you swiftly make a connection, whilst giving them a taste of who you are. Remember, each person you meet will likely compare their notes on how you came across and how you treated others, so remain genuine at all stages in the process.

Get ready to be assessed

As the selection process moves forward, the interviewer may present you with an assessment. This assessment may require you to provide your thoughts on the job role, a strategy for the business or a self-assessment based on strengths and weaknesses. They may ask you to write a document or give a presentation, depending on the task at hand. This can be nerve wracking, but it is important to keep in mind that feedback is detrimental to future success, and it is better to determine if you’re the right fit before (not after) undertaking the job position.

Stay patient

There is a lot of waiting to be done during the hiring process. Other candidates must be interviewed, and the company needs to regroup and assess before moving forward. So don’t put your life on hold. A large portion of the hiring process is out of your control, and no matter how much you sit and worry about it, this won’t change the outcome. Continue to network, pursue other opportunities and stay positive. After all, you want the right job, not just “a job”.