What to Do When Your Mind Goes Blank in a Job Interview

We’ve all been there. You’re in the middle of an interview and suddenly, your mind decides to take an unexpected vacation ✌🏼🌴 What great timing! 😑

In this blog article, I’ll share how you can regain your composure and ace that interview, even when your mind goes blank 😤

Embrace the Pause:

When your mind goes blank, it's tempting to fill the silence with meaningless words or nervous rambling 😅😬 Instead, take a deep breath and embrace the pause. Use this moment to collect your thoughts and compose a coherent response. Remember, a thoughtful answer delivered after a brief pause is better than a rushed and incoherent response 💁🏼‍♀️

Ask for Clarification:

If a question catches you off guard, don't hesitate to ask for clarification. Repeat the question back to the interviewer or ask for more context. This not only buys you some time 🙌🏼 but also allows you to gather your thoughts more effectively.

Use Bridging Phrases:

Bridging phrases are your secret weapon when your mind goes blank. They help you transition smoothly to another topic while you come up with a response. Phrases like "That's an interesting question🤔" "Let me think about that for a moment💭" or "I would approach it from this perspective💡" can buy you valuable time and showcase your ability to think on your feet.

Leverage the Power of Examples:

When your mind goes blank, it's easy to forget all the amazing experiences and accomplishments you have. Take a moment to recall relevant examples from your past work or educational experiences. Share a specific anecdote if you can. This will not only demonstrate your expertise but also add credibility to your response. Remember, storytelling can help you engage the interviewer and make a lasting impression.

Stay Positive and Authentic:

Even if you do stumble over your words, don't let it derail your confidence. Stay positive and authentic throughout the interview ✅😊 Acknowledge that you're experiencing a momentary lapse and apologize if necessary. The key is to maintain a professional and composed demeanor. Employers value authenticity, so embrace your genuine self, flaws and all.

Remember, we're all human, and it's normal to experience mental blocks from time to time. The important thing is how you handle those moments of blankness and bounce back with grace and resilience ✨

If you’re looking for greater support, sign up to take my Career Workshop Intensive, a 4-part program designed to help you get a job you love ASAP.

Now, go out there and show them what you're made of!