Interviewing for a new job can be a nerve-racking experience. There's often a lot riding on you getting that job. During the interview, some people may start to sweat, their hands visibly shake, or they get dry mouth.
There are many interviewing tips out there but one that rarely gets mentioned is to always accept a glass of water when it is offered to you. There are a number of reasons to do this.
You Will Get Thirsty
No matter how long the interview is, you WILL get thirsty and your mouth WILL start to get dry. Speaking with a dry mouth is awful. Keeping hydrated will help solve this problem.
It Will Give You Time To Think
If you're hit with a difficult question (an almost certainty) taking a sip of water will give you a few seconds to think and formulate an answer. This is a much better solution than staring silently at the interviewer while your mind races for an answer.
It Will Calm Your Nerves
Taking a sip of water followed by a deep breath will certainly calm your nerves. You can do this at any time during the interviewing process. Just make sure you are not constantly sipping water and taking deep breaths throughout the whole interview or you could look like a crazy person.
It Is Polite
Accepting a small gesture like a glass of water is a polite way to start off the interview. The ultimate decision of whether you get the job or not will probably not depend on whether or not you accepted a glass of water, but it's better than starting off your first interaction with the interviewer by refusing a simple gesture.
No matter where you are interviewing, accepting a glass of water when offered will give you many opportunities to put your best foot forward in that situation. If used properly a simple glass of water can help you land the job of your dreams.