Teaching and practicing interview skills with clients plays a huge part in my coaching practice. Everyone is looking for the "right" way to do things, sometimes forgetting what they intuitively know in the process. Although every situation is as unique as the people participating in it, there are a few simple ways that you can re-frame your mind about the meet and greet process that may just affect your interviews in a positive way. Sometimes, getting back to basics is all that's needed for a fresh start!
 
Four Common Misconceptions People Have About Interviewing:
 
That you are auditioning. Candidates often feel like they should know all their lines and have all the right things to say in an interview, which can lead to needless anxiety. No one is expecting you to be able to read their mind. Instead of endlessly rehearsing what you will say if you're asked a given question, try turning your concept of what an interview is around. Tell yourself that you are taking part in a "business meeting," getting to know the company and the players in it to decide if it's a good fit for you. A business meeting takes place among colleagues, not on an audition stage. Remember that the people interviewing you are your equals, and treat them as such. The idea is to make a human connection, whether or not you get the job.
 
That your interviewers are waiting for you to say the "wrong" thing. This is the biggest misconception that candidates have about the interview process, and can cause the most fear. In fact, in 99% of situations the opposite is true! Having a position open that needs to be filled costs companies money and creates unnecessary stress on supervisors and other employees. Most likely, if someone is taking the time to meet and sit down to talk with you, they are actually hoping that you will be the right person for the job -- which means it will be a fit for you, as well as for them. The most successful interviews feel organic and conversational -- a dialogue, not a monologue or a quid pro quo. 
 
That the person you are meeting is the only one you need to connect with. When you start off with a new company, you are joining a new community. Assume that everyone in that community is paying attention. Your hiring manager may not be the only person's opinion that has any weight. Be kind, be yourself and show respect to everyone that you encounter when you go in for the interview. Remember, these people could be your future colleagues! 
 
An interview is only successful if you get hired on the spot. In many cases, there are several different stages of interviewing. Especially in corporate culture, the higher the position, the more steps you will need to take before reaching the final rung on that ladder. Don't gauge success on whether or not you receive a formal offer right away. Every meeting is a potential to make an important contact for the future. You may not be exactly right for the position that you are interviewing for, but that doesn't mean the hiring organization won't think of you when the right position opens up!