It was a bright Monday morning in Lagos, and the hustle was in full swing. Daniel sat in a BRT bus, dressed in a crisp navy-blue suit, clutching his folder with copies of his CV. He had an interview at one of the leading consulting firms in Victoria Island, and his stomach was tied in knots. His mind raced with thoughts: What if I forget my answers? What if they ask me a technical question I can’t answer? What if I mess up?

If you’ve ever felt like Daniel, you’re not alone. Interview anxiety is real, and it can be even more daunting in Nigeria’s competitive job market. Whether you’re preparing for a role in banking, tech, consulting, or even the civil service, those pre-interview nerves can be overwhelming. But don’t worry there are effective ways to stay calm and ace your interview with confidence.

1. Preparation is Key

Nothing eases anxiety like solid preparation. Research the company understand its history, culture, and recent news. Review the job description carefully and match your skills with the role. Practice common interview questions and answers, but don’t memorise them word for word. Instead, focus on key points so your responses remain natural and conversational.

For Nigerian professionals, it’s also crucial to be aware of industry trends. If you’re applying for a fintech role, for example, know about the latest CBN regulations. If it’s an FMCG job, understand Nigeria’s consumer market dynamics.

2. Dress Smart, Feel Confident

First impressions matter. Dressing professionally isn’t just about looking good—it also boosts confidence. In Nigeria’s humid climate, opt for breathable fabrics. A well-fitted suit or a neatly pressed traditional outfit (if appropriate for the company’s culture) can make you feel poised and ready.

3. Simulate the Interview Experience

Practice makes perfect. Conduct mock interviews with a friend or mentor. Better still, record yourself answering questions to identify areas for improvement. In Nigeria, where many companies conduct online interviews, ensure your internet connection is stable, your background is tidy, and your lighting is professional.

4. Master Your Mindset

Before stepping into the interview room, take deep breaths. A simple technique is the 4-7-8 breathing method, inhale for four seconds, hold for seven, exhale for eight. It reduces anxiety and helps you stay composed.

Also, reframe your mindset. Instead of seeing the interview as a test where failure is catastrophic, view it as a conversation to assess mutual fit. Remember, the company wants to hire the right person just as much as you want the job.

5. Arrive Early, Avoid Lagos Traffic Stress

In cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, traffic can be unpredictable. Plan your route in advance, leave early, and factor in possible delays. If your interview is virtual, log in at least 10 minutes early to check your internet connection and settle in.

6. Be Authentic and Engaging

Recruiters appreciate genuine candidates. Instead of giving generic responses, share personal experiences that highlight your skills. If asked about problem-solving, narrate a time you handled a difficult client or met a tight deadline. This approach makes you more relatable and memorable.

7. Handle Tough Questions with Poise

Many Nigerian employers ask challenging questions to test resilience. If you don’t know an answer, don’t panic. Instead, acknowledge it honestly and demonstrate your willingness to learn. For example, “I haven’t encountered that scenario before, but I would approach it by…”

8. Follow Up with Gratitude

After your interview, send a follow-up email thanking the interviewers for their time. This small gesture leaves a positive impression and keeps you top of mind.

As Daniel stepped into the sleek glass building of the consulting firm, he took a deep breath, straightened his tie, and smiled. He had prepared, practiced, and calmed his nerves. Now, it was time to show them why he was the right candidate.

So, the next time you have an interview, remember you’ve got this! With the right mindset and preparation, you can walk into that room with confidence and secure the opportunity you deserve.