How to Prepare for an Interview

Follow these steps to prepare effectively, so you can enter the interview room with confidence.

1. Read the job description carefully

The job description tells you what the employer is seeking in an ideal candidate. It outlines areas the interviewer will likely focus on, allowing you to prepare relevant answers.

Take the time to thoroughly review the job description, paying close attention to every detail. As you read, consider the following:

• What specific skills and qualifications are emphasized?
• What experiences are they looking for?
• What responsibilities are highlighted?
• What language or keywords are used repeatedly?

Think critically about how your own background aligns with these requirements. Identify concrete examples from your work history that demonstrate your proficiency in the key skills mentioned. By doing this preparation, you’ll be better equipped to articulate why you’re a strong fit for the role during the interview.

2. Research the company

Start by exploring the company’s website, paying particular attention to their mission statement, values, and any recent news or accomplishments. Learn about their products or services, as well as their position in the market.

Familiarizing yourself with the company will show that you’ve done your homework and are serious about the opportunity.

You should also read about the company’s culture and work environment, either on their careers page or through employee reviews on sites like Glassdoor. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also allow you to ask informed questions that show your genuine interest in the organization.

3. Prepare relevant examples of your work experience

Reflect on your past work experiences and identify specific situations or achievements that demonstrate your proficiency in the skills the employer is looking for. These examples should be relevant to the job and show your ability to handle challenges, work in a team, or drive results.

Be prepared to discuss these examples in detail, explaining the context, your actions, and the outcomes. Quantify your achievements whenever possible, using metrics or percentages to illustrate your impact. Having these examples ready will help you provide concrete evidence of your qualifications during the interview.

4. Plan your answers

Take time to think about your responses to common interview questions. While you don’t want to sound overly rehearsed, having a general idea of what you want to say can boost your confidence and help you articulate your thoughts more clearly during the interview.

Be prepared to discuss the following:

• Your strengths and how they relate to the job
• Why you’re leaving your current job (focusing on growth opportunities rather than negative aspects of your current job)
• Any employment gaps you may have
• Your interest in the company and the specific role
• Past failures or challenges (in a way that highlights your ability to learn and grow)

5. Learn about the STAR method

The STAR method is a structured approach to answering behavioral interview questions.

STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. This technique helps you provide comprehensive, focused answers that clearly demonstrate your skills and experiences.

When using the STAR method, start by describing a specific Situation you faced, then explain the Task you were responsible for. Next, detail the Actions you took to address the situation, and finally, share the Results of your efforts.

6. Practice good speech and body language

Practice speaking clearly and at a moderate pace. Pay attention to your tone of voice, making sure that it conveys confidence and enthusiasm.

Equally important is your body language. Practice maintaining good posture, making appropriate eye contact, and offering a firm handshake. Be mindful of nervous habits like fidgeting or playing with your hair.

Remember to smile naturally and show engagement through your facial expressions. These non-verbal cues can help you appear more confident and approachable.

7. Have a friend interview you

Ask a friend or family member to play the role of the interviewer so you can rehearse your responses in a low-pressure environment.

Ask your mock interviewer for feedback on your answers, body language, and overall presentation. This exercise can help you identify areas for improvement before the actual interview.

8. Make a list of follow-up questions to ask the interviewer

Preparing thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer demonstrates your interest in the position and company.

Having questions can also help you gather important information to assess if the job is a good fit for you. Consider asking about:

• Company culture
• Opportunities for growth
• Challenges the team is facing
• The day-to-day responsibilities of the role

9. Bring a copy of your resume

Even though the interviewer will probably have your resume on hand, it’s always a good idea to bring a few extra copies. This shows that you’re prepared in case you’re meeting with multiple people or the interviewer doesn’t have your resume readily available.

You should also bring copies of any other relevant documents, such as references, work samples, or certifications (if applicable).

10. Dress appropriately

Dressing appropriately makes a good first impression and demonstrates your professionalism before you even begin speaking. Research the company culture to gauge the appropriate level of formality. When in doubt, it’s better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.

11. Plan your route and arrive early

On the day of the interview, the last thing you want is to be stressed about arriving on time. Plan your route in advance, considering factors like traffic, parking, or public transportation schedules. Aim to arrive at least 15 minutes early.

If you’re unfamiliar with the area, consider doing a trial run a day or two before the interview. This can help you identify any potential issues and feel more relaxed on the day of the interview. Arriving early gives you time to compose yourself, review your notes, and observe the office environment before the interview begins.