Lifestyle

5 Simple, Foolproof Ways To Pump Yourself Up Before A Big Job Interview

by Leeor Bronis
Fox 2000 Pictures

So, you landed an interview for the job of your dreams. You've spent half the night going over possible interview questions, picking out the perfect black blazer, white button-down combination and, of course, getting yourself pumped up for the big meeting.

Honestly, landing a high-power position as a woman is already tough, as we earn 79 percent of what our male counterparts earn. Luckily, there are a few quick pre-interview practices you can employ to keep your mind and body focused and ready for the task ahead. From body language to outfit choices, we've got you covered.

Still psyching yourself out? Follow these five steps to ensure you're the picture of composure when that hiring manager calls you into the scary little room.

Perfect posture is everything.

When it comes to job interviews, a first impression is all you get.

Body language is everything when it comes to face-to-face meetings, and you need to ensure yours is conveying you are a put-together person who can get the job done.

Science is on your side, too. According to a 2011 study from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, standing tall will make you appear more in charge.

As you describe your resume, keep your back straight, shoulders out and head up to appear more open and confident to the person sitting across from you.

Basically, just channel your inner Misty Copeland and you'll be set.

A few simple stretches can make all the difference.

Before heading into an interview, I'm a tense mess. Though it's natural for your body to react to whatever's going on in your brain, shock your system with a torso twisting stretch to release tension.

While sitting down, take a deep breath, cross one leg over the other and twist your back for a deep, calming stretch. Alternate for 10 seconds on each side until you start to find your zen.

Guzzle tons of water.

The benefits of water are well known by now. It keeps your skin clear and your body hydrated and fit. Surprisingly, downing H2O can also be more effective at fighting fatigue than coffee.

Before an interview, it's had to keep your energy up when you're nervous. While coffee will give you a jolt of energy for about 20 minutes, water will keep your spirits high all day long by hydrating your body.

Wear a comfortable outfit.

Nothing is worse than wearing a skirt one size too small and dying of suffocation as your would-be boss asks you questions. Go for semi-elastic waist skirts and make sure your blazer isn't too tight on your shoulders.

Also, keep the 6-inch heels for the club and opt for a sensible and comfortable 3-inch. You can't impress anyone if your feet feel like they're being tortured.

Repeat the advice of other powerful women.

We all have that one role model who inspires us to go for our goals. Taking the wise business advice of successful women like Oprah or Spanx founder Sara Blakely will fill you with confidence upon entering your meeting.

My personal favorite is a zinger from Arianna Huffington: “You have to do what you dream of doing, even if you're afraid."

Put these five tricks to the test, and get ready to dazzle your new boss.