Learn how to prepare, present yourself, and follow up effectively to leave a lasting impression.

An interview is your opportunity to showcase your skills, experience, and enthusiasm for a role. Being well-prepared can help you stand out and confidently communicate why you’re the best fit for the position. Use this page to help navigate each step of the interview process, from research to follow-up.

Before the Interview

Preparation is Key

Before the interview, take the time to research, plan, and practice:

  1. Research the Company and Role
    • Visit the company’s website, read recent news, and understand their mission, values, and culture.
    • Review the job description and align your experience with the role’s responsibilities.
  2. Know Your Resume
    • Be ready to discuss your experience, accomplishments, and how they relate to the job.
  3. Practice Common Questions
    • Prepare answers to frequently asked questions, such as:
      • “Tell me about yourself.”
      • What are your strengths and weaknesses?”
      • “Why do you want to work here?”
    • Use the STAR Method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to answer behavioral questions.
  4. Plan Your Outfit
    • Dress appropriately for the company’s culture (business professional or business casual)
  5. Prepare Questions to Ask
    • Examples:
      • “What does success look like in this role?”
      • “Can you describe the team I’d be working with?”

During the Interview

Make a Great Impression

Interviews are about more than just answering questions – they’re your chance to build a connection.

  1. Arrive Early
    • Aim to arrive 10-15 minutes early to show punctuality.
  2. Show Confidence and Enthusiasm
    • Greet your interviewer(s) with a firm handshake and a smile.
    • Maintain good posture and steady eye contact.
  3. Communicate Clearly
    • Take your time to think before answering questions.
    • Be concise and stay focused on the question being asked.
  4. Highlight Your Strengths
    • Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and accomplishmetns.
  5. Engage with the Interviewer
    • Show interest by actively listening and responding thoughtfully.

After the Interview

Finish Strong

What you do after the interview can reinforce a positive impression.

  1. Thank the Interviewer
    • Express gratitude at the end of the interview.
  2. Send a Follow-Up Email
    • Within 24 hours, send a personalized thank-you email:
      • Reiterate your interest in the role.
      • Mention something specific from the interview that resonated with you.
      • Restate why you’re a great fit.
  3. Reflect on Your Performance
    • Think about what went well and areas for improvement to prepare for future interviews.

Resources to Help You Prepare

Tools for Success

Take advantage of these resources to boost your preparation:

3 Ways to Highlight Your Career Interests in an Interview

Talking about future goals and career interests is a key component of almost every interview. But the questions“Tell me a little bit about why you want this position” and “Where do you see yourself five years from now?” regularly spark …

By CareerShift
Job hunting & career management solutions
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