Transform Your Interview Performance
Interview preparation is the difference between "just another candidate" and "the candidate we need to hire." Success requires strategic preparation across multiple areas.
Phase 1: Pre-Interview Research (1-2 weeks before)
Company Research:
- Company website: mission, values, recent news
- LinkedIn: company updates, employee backgrounds
- Glassdoor: company reviews, interview experiences
- Industry news: recent developments, competitors
Role Research:
- Re-read job posting and your application materials
- Research interviewer backgrounds on LinkedIn
- Identify likely interview topics and questions
- Prepare relevant examples from your experience
Phase 2: Question Preparation (1 week before)
Prepare answers for common categories:
Background Questions: "Tell me about yourself," "Walk me through your resume," "Why are you leaving your current role?"
Behavioral Questions: "Tell me about a time when..." questions addressing: leadership, conflict resolution, problem-solving, teamwork, failure/learning
Technical Questions: Based on role requirements: specific skills, tools, methodologies, industry knowledge
Questions About the Role: "Why this position?" "Why our company?" "What are your salary expectations?"
Phase 3: Practice (3-5 days before)
Schedule mock interviews with a coach, friend, or family member. Record yourself answering questions to review. Practice in interview attire to build comfort. Time your answers (aim for 1-2 minutes for most questions). Prepare questions to ask the interviewer (have 5-7 ready).
Phase 4: Day Before & Day Of
Day Before: Plan your outfit and route. Print extra copies of resume. Prepare portfolio/work samples if relevant. Review your notes one final time. Get good sleep.
Day Of: Arrive 10-15 minutes early. Bring: multiple resumes, reference list, notepad and pen, questions list. Turn off phone. Use restroom beforehand. Take deep breaths and positive self-talk.
During the Interview
First impressions: Firm handshake, eye contact, smile. Body language: Sit up straight, lean slightly forward, appropriate gestures. Listen actively, pause before answering, speak clearly and conversationally. Take brief notes if offered. Ask your prepared questions. Express enthusiasm for the role.
Common Interview Mistakes
- Speaking negatively about current/former employers
- Being unprepared with basic facts about the company
- Rambling answers without structure
- Not having questions for the interviewer
- Failing to follow up afterward
Post-Interview Follow-Up
Send thank-you email within 24 hours. Personalize it with specifics from the conversation. Reiterate your interest and key qualifications. If you don't hear back by expected date, send a polite follow-up.
Managing Interview Anxiety
Preparation is the best anxiety reducer. Additionally: Practice breathing exercises, visualize success, reframe nerves as excitement, remember interviews are two-way conversations. Even experienced professionals feel nervous—it's normal and shows you care.