Are you preparing for a job interview? You may be thinking about questions to ask during your time with your potential new employer, what you should wear, and what to expect.
Follow these simple interview preparation tips below to help your experience go as smoothly as possible. Learn how to land your next job by putting your best foot forward.
Tip #1: Prepare for an Interview Ahead of Time
Take some time to learn about the company you are interviewing with. One of the simplest things you can do to prepare for an interview is to take a glance at their website.
This can help inform you on the basics of what they do, locations, services they provide, products they make and more. Being prepared for your interview by knowing a brief company background may set you apart from other candidates.
Tip #2: Prepare a List of Questions for Your Interviewer
One of the most common end-of-interview questions is “do you have any questions for me?”. In terms of interview tips and tricks, having a list of questions allows you to learn more about the position and the company and shows that you really care about the job that you are applying for.
Some end-of-interview questions that you may want to ask include:
- How is success in this role measured?
- What does a typical workday look like?
- What do you like best about working for this company?
- When are you looking to make a hiring decision for this position?
Tip #3: Dress Professionally and Be on Time
Arrive at your interview 15 minutes early and dress professionally. If you are interviewing virtually, be sure to check your computer settings for audio and video. It wouldn’t hurt to do a test run before your interview. This ensures that the platform you are using is working.
And while you should arrive 15 minutes early, don’t arrive much earlier than that. Arriving too early can also create a negative impression. Hiring managers often have multiple interviews lined up in a row and may feel pressured if you show up 45 minutes early.
Tip #4: Use Storytelling to Position Yourself as a Great Candidate
Be prepared to answer questions and provide scenarios during your interview that demonstrate why you would be a good fit for the position you have applied for.
When preparing for a job interview, practice sharing a few real-life examples of how you have worked on projects, collaborated with others, and problem-solved. If appropriate for the position, bring any kind of portfolio you may have to show off your work.
Tip #5: Master Your Body Language and Communication Skills
Your non-verbal communication speaks volumes before you even say a word. Knowing how to to prep for an interview includes practicing confident body language that reinforces your verbal messages.
Maintain good eye contact, offer a firm handshake, and sit up straight throughout the conversation. During a video interview, position your camera at eye level and ensure good lighting on your face.
In terms of top interview preparation tips, practice active listening by nodding appropriately. Avoid fidgeting or checking your phone. Pro tip: Record yourself answering common interview questions to identify any distracting habits or improve your delivery.
Tip #6: Perfect Your Elevator Pitch and Key Responses
Preparing for job interview success means having polished responses to predictable questions. Your elevator pitch should be a concise 30-60 second summary of your professional background that highlights your most relevant qualifications.
When you prepare for an interview, practice articulating your value proposition clearly, especially if you're pursuing a specialized role like an IT job where technical skills need to be communicated effectively to both technical and non-technical interviewers.
Remember: Your responses should feel natural, not robotic. Prepare for an interview until you can deliver your ideas conversationally while hitting your key points.
Tip #7: Research Your Interviewer and Interview Format
Leverage LinkedIn and the company website to learn about your interviewer's background. Understanding their role and professional journey can help you connect on common ground and tailor your responses appropriately.
Confirm the interview format beforehand. Will it be one-on-one, panel-style, or include multiple rounds? Knowing what to expect helps you mentally prepare and manage your energy throughout the process.
If you're unsure about how to prep for an interview, don't hesitate to ask the recruiter or hiring manager when they contact you about the interview format. This can happen after you’ve submited a resume.
Tip #8: Organize Your References and Documents into an Interview Preparation Checklist
Create a comprehensive job interview prep list that includes gathering all necessary documents. Beyond your resume, prepare an updated reference list with current contact information for each job reference.
Consider bringing:
- Multiple copies of your resume
- A portfolio of relevant work samples
- List of references with their titles and contact information
- Any certifications or licenses relevant to the position
- Notepad and pen for taking notes
Keep everything organized in a professional folder or portfolio to demonstrate your attention to detail.
Tip #9: Plan Your Route and Backup Strategies
Part of thoroughly preparing for a job interview involves logistics. Test your route to the interview location and identify parking options or public transportation schedules. Plan to arrive 15 minutes early, but don't enter the building until 5-10 minutes before your scheduled time.
For virtual interviews, test your technology setup at least 24 hours in advance. Have backup plans ready, including a phone number to call if technical issues arise and an alternative device or internet connection if possible.
Consider what could go wrong and how you'll handle it professionally.
Tip #10: Follow Up
After you have completed your interview, you may think it is time to sit back and wait. Wrong.
Follow up with the interviewer. Be sure to thank them for taking the time to interview you and share your thoughts on the interview. Prepare for any additional follow-up questions that may be presented to you or information that may need to be provided.
Job Interview Preparation Checklist
Having a comprehensive interview preparation checklist ensures you won't forget any crucial steps in your preparation process. When figuring out how to prep for an interview, you can use the below checklist to systematically get ready and boost your confidence.
One Week Before:
- Research the company's mission, values, and recent news
- Review the job description and align your experience
- Prepare your elevator pitch and practice common interview questions
- Research your interviewer(s) on LinkedIn
- Confirm interview details (time, location, format, attendees)
24-48 Hours Before:
- Plan your route and test technology for virtual interviews
- Select and prepare your interview outfit
- Print multiple copies of your resume and reference list
- Organize your portfolio and supporting documents
- Prepare thoughtful questions to ask your interviewer
Day of Interview:
- Review your notes and key talking points
- Arrive 10-15 minutes early (but not too early)
- Bring breath mints, a pen, and notepad
- Turn off your phone or put it on silent
- Take deep breaths and visualize success
This systematic approach to preparing for job interviews helps ensure you present your best professional self and don't overlook important details that could impact your performance.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are 5 tips for a successful job interview?
Research the company, practice responses to common questions, and dress appropriately. Make a list of thoughtful questions, and follow up with a thank-you note.
What is the best answer for "tell me about yourself"?
Use the present-past-future formula: current role, relevant experience, and interest in this opportunity. Keep it under 2 minutes.
How do you introduce yourself in an interview?
Offer a confident handshake, maintain eye contact, state your name clearly, and thank them for their time.