How to prepare for your Job Interview

Making a good first impression at an interview is key. You want to impress, prove you are the perfect fit for the company, say the right things but not too much, and be your best professional self. Remembering all of this but remaining relaxed can sometimes be a little overwhelming, so here are a few tips on how to prepare for an interview to ensure you present your best self and help land your dream job.

Researching the Company

Before the interview, it’s important to find out as much as you can about not only the job but also the company. Company research is a critical part of interview preparation. It will help you prepare to both answer interview questions about the company and to ask the interviewer questions about the company. You will also be able to find out whether the company and the company culture are a good fit for you. It is important you understand exactly what it is the company does, what their product is/what they provide to their clients, and what the job role entails.

Selling YOU!

Many people struggle at the idea of “selling themselves,” but presenting yourself in your best light does not have to feel disingenuous. The fact is, you do have skills and experiences that set you apart and it is completely acceptable to acknowledge that about yourself.

When preparing for your interview, know how your particular skill set will translate to the role and how it will help contribute to the overall goals of the team.

Sharing examples of how you have grown and succeeded in your previous roles is a great opportunity to do so. For example: How much did your previous companies’ social media engagement grow when you were managing it? Or, What percentage of sales were you responsible for when target was met/overachieved?

Common interview Questions

It’s not possible to anticipate every question that you will be asked in your interview, however preparing answers for common questions that are asked will boost your confidence and portray that you have confidence in what you are saying.
“Tell me about yourself” and “Why do you think you are right for this job” are just two examples of the most common questions you could get asked. Do not completely memorise a response for these types of questions, however take time to really understand you could bring to this company and the position. This is the first time you are meeting with the interviewer, so this is your time for your personality and professional self to shine through.

It is important that you are specific and honest when answering questions. Making regular links between yourself, your skills and the skills required for the role, will make reminders to the interviewer why you are suited for the role and what you can offer. If you go off course, and start talking about previous employment history that has no relevance for this role, then the interviewer will struggle to see why you would be a good hire.

Asking Questions

Write down any questions you may have so you can ask during the interview. It always looks good when you go into an interview with relevant questions, it shows you put effort into preparing for the interview. However, never ask questions just to ask questions, they should be genuine and relevant.

Your Journey

It’s important to know where you need to go for your job interview – ahead of time. That way, you’ll avoid running late to the interview. Research the location and best journey for you. If you have the time, it’s a good idea to do a practice run a day or two before the interview. That way, you’ll be sure about where you going and how long it will take to get there. Give yourself a few extra minutes and arrive a little early to the interview.