How to Nail a Job Interview with Social Anxiety

If you battle social anxiety, the thought of a job interview might send you into a spiral of panic. But social anxiety doesn’t have to hold you back from landing the job you want. With the right preparation and mindset, you can show up and put your best foot forward without anyone knowing your heart is racing the whole time.

Tip sheet:

How to Get Through a Job Interview with Social Anxiety

1. Practice, and then practice again. Watch YouTube videos of successful interviews, run through role-playing scenarios with a friend, and apply for more jobs than you think you need to give yourself plenty of practice runs. When the time comes for an interview that really matters, you’ll feel much more prepared.
2. Challenge negative thoughts. Your anxiety will try to convince you that you’re not qualified, worthy, or confident enough. Don’t listen to it. Respond with confidence about your ability to show up and communicate clearly.
3. Make a list of things you want to share. Anxiety has a habit of making your mind go blank. Keep a note in your pocket with your five most noteworthy skills, strengths, or experiences so you don’t leave anything important out. And yes, it’s totally okay to glance at your notes during the interview!
4. Shift your focus outward. Instead of getting trapped in your anxious thoughts, practice focusing on sensory elements in your surroundings: the smells, sounds, or colors, for example. This will help you stay fully engaged with the interviewer.

Can I Get a Job if I Have Social Anxiety?

Absolutely! Having social anxiety doesn’t mean you’re not capable of getting a job; it just means interviews are more challenging for you than for others. Like anything in life, interviewing with social anxiety gets easier with practice. Every time you push through your discomfort and show up for an interview, you're taking another step towards building the confidence that will help you succeed once you land the job.