How to Prepare for your 1st or 100th Interview
Updated: Apr 26, 2022
The interviewing process doesn't change, just the position or company you're interviewing for. Therefore, the interview preparation also doesn't change.
The interview process is one of the most important pieces in evaluating a candidate. If you're contacted for an interview, that means your resume successfully stood out and made it through hundreds of other applicants.
So interview time, how should you prepare for it?
Do Your Homework - research the company and make notations of interesting information for possible discussion. Be sure that the information has substance and will actually produce good dialogue. Doing your homework also includes looking up location, travel information, and knowing who you're meeting with - their names and titles if possible.
Dress the part - professional clothing always! It's hard to gauge office culture but it's always safer to go in professional attire. If you're going on interviews during the workday, try wearing something that can easily be converted to professional attire - only needing to throw on a blazer or dressy shoes.
Conduct Mock Interviews - practice makes perfect! Practice answering common interview questions with a friend. Practicing allows for you to be more confident with your answers and remaining calm.
Confirm References - if you're going to need references, make sure that you have the information available on hand. Get at least 3 professional references (supervisory preferred but may not always be required) who will speak well of you.
Now that's all out of the way...
Be on time & Courteous - always aim to arrive at the location at least 15 minutes early. This allows room for check-in and using the restroom if needed. Always be respectful to all persons that you may meet because you never know who is who.
Sell Yourself - This your time, you have the floor, the mic is all yours. Your personal pitch should say why you're the best candidate for the job and what sets you apart from the others.
Have Questions - don't neglect to ask questions. Remember you did your research, so there's more you want to know. Asking knowledgeable questions shows your interest in the organization.
Close out the interview - reiterate your interest and asks about next steps. You will never be able to fully gage what direction the interview will go in, but remain upbeat until the very end.
Through proper preparation , it's possible to be your best self in any interview setting. Keep practicing your pitch and common interview questions and you'll have a full confidence boost in no time.