How to prepare for a job interview?

Are you getting ready for an interview?

Not sure how to prepare or what to expect?

Below we'll cover strategies to help you present your best self. Follow the advice I'm about to give, and your chances of success will greatly increase!

Personal Experience:

I hold a senior role in a nationally recognized UK company. Over the last 15 years, I’ve experienced both sides of the interview process.

I've interviewed for basic, mid, and senior-level positions and have been involved in interviewing and onboarding over 100 people for various roles.

What Interviewers are Looking For:

Most interviewers, especially if the position does not require specific technical knowledge or experience, are looking for commitment and attitude.

Skills can be learned, but a positive attitude and commitment are essential. A good interviewer isn’t necessarily looking for someone who is already great at the job, but for someone eager and willing to go the extra mile.

Interviewers look for:

• Positivity and an open-minded approach

• The ability to work independently without supervision

• Problem-solving skills

• A hunger to go the extra mile and commit to achieving goals

• Flexibility

Remember, interviewers are human and can be biased. First impressions are crucial, especially in the first 15 seconds.

Ensure you’re dressed appropriately but comfortably. If you’re not used to wearing a suit, it might not be the best idea to wear one, as it could make you feel uneasy.

Clean shoes and basic hygiene are essential. How you dress and present yourself speaks volumes about how serious you are about wanting the position.

If you appear looking like you have spend last night at the back of your car, your chances of getting hired are significantly reduced.

It’s a good idea to research the company’s culture before the interview. For example, it might not be the best choice to show up in a full suit if their dress policy is very casual.

Preparation Before the Interview:

Research the company you’re applying to. Know basic information, or a bit more, depending on the role.

You might be asked about the company, their products, and the value they provide to their customers. Be prepared for a "have a go" moment where you might need to demonstrate your skills. Do your best and ask for feedback afterward.

Maintain good posture: head up, deep breath, chest forward. If you’re nervous, good posture will help.

Listen to your favourite music on the way to the interview to relax.

Never be late.

Being on time for your interview is in my opinion already late. Aim to arrive early enough to familiarize yourself with the surroundings.

Research the route, bus schedules, and potential traffic. You do not want to walk in 1 minute before the interview leaving yourself no time to collect your thoughts.

Body Language Tips:

Your body language plays a significant role in how you are perceived. Make eye contact, smile, and offer a firm handshake. Again, an open posture, with your shoulders back and head up, shows confidence.

Avoid crossing your arms or looking at your phone, as these behaviors will suggest disinterest.

Starting the Interview:

When the interview starts:

• Ensure your hands are clean and dry for a potential handshake. If you’re nervous, keep a tissue in your pocket to wipe your hands before entering the room.

• Introduce yourself: “Hello, my name is… Thank you for inviting me to this interview.”

• Wait to be invited to sit down.

During the Interview:

Depending on the role, you will be asked various questions.

The most common ones are:

• Tell me about yourself

• Why do you want to work for us?

• What will you bring to the team?

• Why should we employ you?

Prepare relevant to the role examples of:

• How you dealt with difficult situations or conflicts?

• Ideas you introduced

• Projects you delivered

• Teamwork experiences

If you lack professional experience, use examples from your daily life. Be honest and don’t fabricate stories.

Never speak negatively about previous employers or colleagues. If asked, give examples of what you have learned in your previous role and say you’re looking for new challenges or a change.

Virtual Interviews:

If your interview is virtual, ensure there will be no unexpected technical surprises. Test your internet connection, camera, and microphone beforehand.

Choose a quiet, well-lit space free from distractions.

Dress professionally, just as you would for an in-person interview. Maintain good eye contact by looking at the camera, and be mindful of your background.

Final Tips:

On your CV and during the interview, avoid overused words like “teamwork,” “professional,” “problem solver,” and “fast learner.” The interviewer has heard these hundreds of times.

Stand out by being specific and unique—again, give examples.

Ask your own questions, such as:

• “What type of person are you looking for in this job?”

• “What is your company’s current goal you are working towards?”

• “How will my performance be evaluated?”

• “What are potential prospects for development and progression? Do you offer any development programs?”

Remember, it’s never wrong to ask a question or two. It will show you are engaged in the conversation. Whoever asks the questions controls the situation.

Write down your preparation. Practice answers to possible questions. Read them several times and possibly stick them to your bathroom mirror so they’re the first thing you see when you wake up.

Preparation makes your answers sound natural and gives you a significant edge.

Possibly have a notebook and a pen with you during the interview. This shows that you are structured and prepared, allows you to take notes, and have some numbers and data ready about the company that you can refer to during the interview.

Follow-up:

After the interview, consider sending a thank-you email to the interviewer within 24 hours.

Express your gratitude for the opportunity and reiterate your interest in the position.

Mention something specific from the interview that you found particularly engaging or interesting.

Conclusion:

In summary, be positive, come prepared, have good examples ready and be the best version of yourself!

Most companies spend a lot of time, energy, and resources to attract the best talent.

Walking into that interview room, you need to believe YOU ARE the best person for this job.

Thanks for reading and all the best for passing your interview!

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