How to prepare for an interview – tips

When you get a positive reply to your application, the next thing on your mind should be: how to prepare for an interview!

Surely you know that first impressions matter. And when we’re talking about job interviews, the first impression you make can make or break your chances of landing the job. The interview process can be intimidating, but with proper preparation, you can increase your chances of success. In this article, we will go over the basics needed to help you prepare for an interview.

Research the Company is the First Step in Preparing for an Interview

Before you go for a job interview, research the company thoroughly. We’ve talked about this before, but we can’t stress how important this step is. Visit the company’s website and read about their products, services, and values. Check out their social media profiles and read any news articles or press releases about the company. This research will help you understand the company’s culture, mission, and vision.

This doesn’t mean that you need to memorize everything you see – not at all. You won’t be taking a test.

Prepare Answers to Common Interview Questions

The next thing that’ll help you prepare for an interview is to go over the most common interview questions. Preparing for common interview questions can help you feel more confident during the interview. Research common interview questions and prepare answers in advance. Be sure to practice your answers out loud to help build your confidence. You can check out our articles on the topic here.

Dress Appropriately

Your attire should be professional and appropriate for the job you are interviewing for. Dressing appropriately shows that you take the interview seriously and respect the interviewer’s time. Even in the era of video interviews, this still applies. Do not interview for a job in your sweatshirt – make an effort!

Arrive Early

This one goes for both interviews in person and online. Make sure you’re not late—account for any possible issues, like traffic. Check your microphone and camera so there are no surprises. You don’t have to log in/show up 10 minutes early, but be mindful of the time.

Have Your Resume Handy

If you’re going to an interview in person, print out a few copies of your resume. It doesn’t hurt to have them for the interviewer if needed.

Moreso, if you have a video interview, have your resume open on your screen. That way, you can easily track where the interviewer is and remind yourself about the content of your resume.

Remember, the best way to prepare for an interview is to know your resume inside & out.

Practice Good Body Language and Prepare for an Interview

Your body language can speak volumes about your confidence and interest in the job. Practice good body language by making eye contact, sitting up straight, and avoiding fidgeting. There’s plenty of advice online about body language and we’d suggest you make it a priority in your preparation for the interview.

Prepare Questions to Ask the Interviewer

Prepare a list of questions to ask the interviewer. These questions can help you gain a better understanding of the company and the role you are applying for. Don’t be shy to ask your questions, after all, you’re at an interview and conditions need to work for both sides, not just the employer.

Interviews are a two-way street and it’s time jobseekers started treating them as such.

Follow-Up After the Interview

If the atmosphere was good and the interview was pleasant, send a thank you email to the interviewer within 24 hours of the interview. This shows that you are interested in the job and appreciate the interviewer’s time. It doesn’t cost you a thing and it shows you’re serious about getting the role.

Conclusion

In conclusion, proper preparation is key to job interview success. By researching the company, preparing answers to common interview questions, dressing appropriately, being on time, having your resume handy, practicing good body language, preparing questions to ask the interviewer, and following up after the interview, you can increase your chances of landing the job. We hope these tips help you succeed in your next job interview.

If you’re struggling to get interviews, we can help you with that by creating a personalized, professional, and optimized resume and cover letter. Simply use the form below to get in touch and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

However, if you’d like to give writing a go – check out our writing guide that will teach you how to write CVs that bring results – interview invitations.

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