Job Interview Preparation

Good Job interview preparation is essential for boosting confidence, demonstrating professionalism, standing out among candidates, as well as reducing anxiety. Having in-person job interviews (and virtual ones) is a crucial step in securing your desired position and hopefully your dream job. They provide you an opportunity to showcase your skills, personality, and fit for the role. Being well-prepared is essential to making a strong impression and increasing your chances of success. To help you navigate this important process when job hunting, I have detailed 10 of the best job interview tips that I have found useful in the past. You can of course also use elements of these when preparing for virtual interviews.

1. Research the Company

• Learn about the company’s history, mission, values, and culture. Understand their products, services, and recent news or achievements.
• Who are the key people within the company, for example, the CEO, and the interviewer’s manager?
• Familiarize yourself with the industry and the company’s competitors. This knowledge will help you answer questions and show your genuine interest in the role.

2. Understand the Role

• Carefully read the job description and identify the key responsibilities and key objectives. That way you can match your skills and experiences with these requirements.
• Prepare examples from your past work that demonstrate your ability to perform the tasks listed in the job description.

3. Practice Common Interview Questions

• Anticipate common interview questions such as “Tell me about yourself,” or “Why do you want to work here?.”
• Practice answers to behavioural questions, such as Tell me a time when…..?
• What type of work environment do you prefer?
• What did you do in the last year to improve your knowledge?
• Why should I hire you?
• What do you know about our business? – Tests you have done your research

Check out this article from HBR – 10 Common Job Interview Questions and How to Answer Them

4. Prepare Questions for the Interviewer

• Develop thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer about the company, team, and role. This shows your interest and helps you gather important information. 
• I always ask an interviewer who is new to the company “What attracted you to the company”? For an interviewer who has been with the company a long time “What keeps you here”?.
• Avoid questions about salary and benefits in the initial interview unless the interviewer brings them up, but be prepared regardless.

5. Dress Appropriately

• Common sense, but you must choose a professional attire that is suitable for the company’s culture.
• When in doubt, opt for more formal attire, but as you have done the research you will know the dress code. You can always ask the recruiter or HR department as to what they feel is suitable.

6. Plan Your Journey

• Determine the interview location and plan your route. Account for traffic, public transportation, or parking, and aim to arrive 10-15 minutes early at the company offices.
• Using Google Maps to check on the day well in advance to see how long it will take to arrive.
• Have the contact details of the recruiter, interviewer or HR department in case you need assistance or experience any unforeseen delays.

7. First Impressions Count

• Arrive on time, I like to be in reception/sign in at least 5 minutes before the interview time.
• Remember every encounter with a person in that company counts.

8. Bring Necessary Materials

• Carry extra copies of your resume and any other documents requested by the interviewer or recruiter.
• I go old school and bring a notepad and pen to take notes during the interview.
• I also come prepared with a printed-off list of questions I want to ask during the interview.

9. Body Language and Etiquette

• Maintain good posture, make eye contact, and offer a firm handshake. These non-verbal cues convey interest, confidence and professionalism.
• Kind of obvious, but still a vital part of your personal brand. Be polite and attentive throughout the interview, listening carefully to the interviewer and responding thoughtfully.

10. Follow Up

• I am on the fence with this one, as I haven’t always done this. However, It can be of benefit to help you stand out by sending a thank-you email within 24 hours of the interview, expressing your appreciation for the opportunity and reiterating your interest in the role.
• Also, you could ask for feedback if unsuccessful.
• A bit of self-reflection on the interview to identify areas for improvement or to adjust your preparation for future interviews.

Preparation is the key to success

Effective job interview preparation is not just a beneficial practice; it is a vital component of your job-hunting strategy. By investing time and effort into preparing for both in-person and virtual interviews, you equip yourself with the tools needed to present your best self. Remember, interviews are your chance to shine, to demonstrate not only your qualifications but also your enthusiasm and cultural fit for the organization.

Utilize these job interview tips to enhance your preparation process, and don’t forget to tailor your approach to the specific nuances of virtual interviews as well. With the right preparation, you can walk into any interview with confidence, ready to make a lasting impression and take a significant step toward securing your dream job.

Good luck, and remember, preparation is the key to success! Any job interview tips I have missed or more career advice for job seekers? Please comment below.