How to Prepare for an Interview

Job interviews can be nerve-wracking at any stage of your career but getting prepared is easy with the right approach.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to do to prepare persuasive answers and make the right first impression on your interviewer.

1. Understand the employer’s priorities

Re-read the job description to understand what the employer is looking for in an ideal candidate. By understanding what strengths and experiences matter to them, you can anticipate the types of questions they’ll ask you in the interview.

As you read, pay close attention to the main responsibilities and skill requirements. Ask yourself these questions:

• What specific skills and qualifications are emphasized?
• What experiences are they looking for?
• What responsibilities are highlighted?
• What language or keywords are used repeatedly?
• How is success measured in the role?

Think critically about how your own background aligns with these requirements. Find specific examples from your work history that show you have the key skills they’re looking for.

2. Research the company

Familiarizing yourself with the company’s mission and values makes it easier for you to market yourself to their interests. Doing proper research also signals enthusiasm for the role and builds the employer’s confidence in your application.

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.

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 for the most common interview questions

Employers use the same common interview questions to get to know you and check whether you’re a good culture fit for their organization. These job interview favorites include the following:

• What is your proudest accomplishment?
• Why are you leaving your current job?
• Why do you want to work for this company?
• Tell me about yourself.
• Tell me about a time you failed.

4. Plan your answers using the STAR method

STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. This framework helps you provide detailed answers that clearly show your value.

The goal isn’t to script your entire answer but to get you thinking about the details that you should emphasize in the job interview.

Here’s an example of the STAR method being used in a job interview:

@resumegenius How to answer “Can you tell me about a time a coworker wasn’t doing their fair share of work” using the STAR method in job interviews ⭐️ 🔸Learn how to use the STAR method to answer interview questions: resumegenius•me/star-method #starmethod #interviewquestions #interviewtips #jobinterview ♬ original sound – Resume Genius

5. 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. Try to avoid 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

Asking questions also helps you find out if the job is right for you. Consider asking about:

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

8. Print a copy of your resume

Bringing an extra copy of your resume shows courtesy and forward thinking. The interviewer may not have it on hand, especially if you’re meeting with multiple people. You’ll make a more professional first impression and make a stronger start to your interview.

Also bring copies of any other documents the employer may have asked for, such as references or your portfolio.

9. Dress appropriately

Dressing appropriately signals that you’ve researched the company properly and put thought into your wardrobe.

Customer and client facing roles tend to require more formal clothing choices, as do legal firms and more traditional employers. Business casual clothing is by far the safest option. You can’t go wrong with a plain button-down shirt and pants.

For casual roles, consider the company culture and type of position before going less formal.

10. 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 review your notes and get a feel for the office.