Interview Day Jitters? Introducing Scream Therapy.

In this blog I often try to find ways to get you back on track.  Mentally.  When this whole job search thing knocks you off.

I’ve tried to do this by encouraging, prodding and suggesting.  And sometimes I need to knock you off track with a big stick, pick you up and dust you off.

Tonight, however, is about asking you to do something.  Something that might make you awfully uncomfortable.  And it might be embarrassing.

But if you do it right, no one has to know.  In fact I did it just this past week.  In my car.

If you can measure up, this task will potentially change your mindset and be just jarring enough to get your head on straight before a big interview or networking event.

I want you to scream a loud “YEEEEEEEE – HAW!”.  In your car.

I’m not kidding.

And, while you could hit yourself in the head with a stick, this is a lot more fun.  As a way to get your head on straight prior to an interview.  Or any other day during job search when the stress gets to you.

It’s actually less like a stick and more like a lemon meringue pie but it has the effect of those defibrillator pads on “ER”.  And you don’t have to say “clear” before letting this loose.

Now before you say “That’s it.  Tim’s finally lost it.” realize that this method is tried and tested.  In my life.  During my 2007 job search.  And many times since.  Whenever life throws a curve ball.

Don’t believe me?  Click below:

Screaming Tim

That’s me.  A few weeks back.  Recorded on my old Blackberry.

I hope this isn’t my Howard Dean moment.  One that destroys my blogging career.

I’ll take the risk.  For you.

So why does screaming in your car help?

1. It is something you never do (if not true for you, well . . . cool!)
2. It shocks your system and shakes the nerves right out of you.
3. It brings out the kid in you.  The kid that was full of confidence and promise
4. It makes you smile.
5. It is a great distraction.

It might also leave you wondering why you read this blog 

What if you are not the cowboy or cowgirl type?  Know that your scream can be of any sort.  You choose.  It can be a “scary movie” scream if you’d like.  But find one that properly wipes your “top of mind” of any nervous thoughts.

For you newbies out there.  If you are new to scream therapy.  Here are a few pointers and warnings.

1. You will feel really silly the first time you try it.  In fact, I wouldn’t record your first scream.
2. Do it at a stop light when no one is around.  And have the radio off.
3. Scream as loud as you can.  Repeat until successful.
4. Don’t close your eyes.  Especially if your car is moving at the time. Be safe.
5. Avoid practicing in the company’s parking lot prior to the interview.  Big brother may not understand.

Now I’m going to ask something of you that I shouldn’t.  This is only for the brave.  The lion-hearted.

I want to hear your screams.

Record them on your phone and send me a text.  That way, unless you are in my address book, I won’t know it’s you.  They’ll be anonymous.

Send the text to (949) 280-7043.

But I’m sure none of you will have the guts to send it to me.  I dare you. 

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Tags: Career Networking | cowboy | encouraging | howard dean | interview | jitters | Psychology | scream | yeehaw
Categories: The Power Of Positive Thinking | Tips For The Job Interview