Importance of Preparing for Job Interviews

Since the most vital step in any job interview process is to ensure that you are fully prepared for a job interview, you should put in as much effort into your preparation as possible. Proper preparation not only builds your confidence, thereby allowing you to display your knowledge and ability, but also reflects how sincere, keen, and serious you are about the role. This in turn will increase your chances of successfully moving on to the next stage in the interview process.

But how do you prepare for the interview? Don’t worry, we are here to assist you. Some of the top tips to stand out and impress an interviewer are as follows:

• Research the company: Review their website, news articles, social media pages and speak with friends or contacts already employed at the company. The more you know about the company’s values, mission, and newsworthy items, the better prepared you will be to answer questions about why you want to work at the organization and how you can contribute to its growth and fit into its values and future goals

• Research your Interviewer: It is very important to research the interviewer and check their professional profile thoroughly. This gives a good impression of what they may expect from a successful candidate

• Review the job description: Make sure you fully understand the duties of the role and what is expected. Always note down the required skills, qualities and experience and see if those are in line with your skills and experience

• Understand the interview format: Try to get more information on how many and what kind of rounds of interview will take place so that you may plan it accordingly

• Conduct A Mock Interview: Review and practice popular interview questions (like, what are your strengths and weaknesses, why do you think you are a right fit for the role, etc) with a friend or maybe in front of a mirror

• Be prepared with examples of your work/project: Many interviewers will ask behavior-based questions that start with “Tell me about a time when…” Think about your successes, failures, and experiences with conflict that could be used to highlight your skills

• Prepare to ask questions to the interviewer: Create a list of questions that can help you determine whether this organization/position is right for you. Also, this will give an impression to the interviewer about how interested you are in the role

• Materials: Always carry a printout of physical copies of your resume, a notebook and a pen to the interview to take notes

• Style: Dress properly for the interview and plan what you will wear the night before

• Time management: Don’t be late! Be early/punctual for the interview