Interview stress? Here’s how to manage your nerves and perform your best

It’s perfectly normal to feel nervous before an interview, especially in today’s competitive finance sector. But letting those nerves take over can mean you don’t present your best self, and in a market where roles are fewer and expectations higher, that can cost you. The good news is that there are practical steps you can take to regain control, boost your confidence, and even turn your nerves into a professional asset.

What UK finance employers are really looking for now

If you want to land a finance job today, you need much more than just a solid CV. The UK’s finance sector has seen significant shifts recently, with companies tightening their hiring budgets and using AI to handle some entry-level tasks. That means competition is high and employers are increasingly looking for well-rounded candidates who bring strong interpersonal and communication skills to the table. These traits don’t always show up on paper so to get noticed, you’ll need to demonstrate those qualities in the room.

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Preparation strategies: How to walk in feeling ready and capable

Preparation can go a long way towards calming nerves. Practice mock interviews with a friend or mentor and get familiar with common competency questions by using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). And don’t forget soft skills – take the time to prepare examples that show teamwork, adaptability, or the ability to communicate. You can also use visualisation techniques: picture yourself walking confidently into the room and answering clearly. The more mentally rehearsed you are, the more in control you’ll feel.

How to quickly steady yourself mid-interview

Even if you’re fully prepared, nerves can still surface during the interview. Try slow, steady breathing to keep your body relaxed. Also, reframe your stress: instead of ‘I’m nervous,’ tell yourself, ‘I’m excited.’ This simple mental switch is an extremely powerful way to shift how your body responds. Keep your posture open, make regular eye contact, and remember – it’s okay to pause and collect your thoughts before answering.

How employers can ease interview stress

Reducing interview anxiety isn’t just on the candidate. Employers play a role too. Structured formats, clear instructions, and a friendly tone can make a big difference. Candidates perform better when they know what to expect and feel they’re being treated with respect. Considerate pacing and small talk at the start will help settle the interviewees’ nerves so you can really assess their true potential.

Turn anxiety into an advantage

Nerves are natural, but they don’t have to define your interview. With thoughtful preparation, the right mental approach, and a supportive interviewer, you can show up as your most capable self.

David Prior

David Prior is the editor of Today News, responsible for the overall editorial strategy. He is an NCTJ-qualified journalist with over 20 years’ experience, and is also editor of the award-winning hyperlocal news title Altrincham Today. His LinkedIn profile is here.