interview preperation

Interview: An Overview

Interviews are a nightmare for many of us. This fear is the main cause of spoiling the interview sessions. Interviews are a kind of test done by recruiters to check whether the candidate meets the requirements to be a part of their company.

The candidate, first of all, must teach themselves that failing in an interview session is not going to be the end. A single failure opens the door for lots of opportunities.

How to Prepare for a Job Interview?

Preparing for a job interview is crucial to presenting yourself as the best candidate for the position. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to prepare effectively:

1. Research the Company:

  • Understand the company's mission, values, products, and services.
  • Familiarize yourself with recent news or achievements related to the company.

2. Understand the Job Description:

  • Analyze the job description and requirements thoroughly.
  • Identify key skills and experiences the employer is seeking.

3. Know Your Resume:

  • Be ready to discuss your resume in detail.
  • Highlight specific achievements and experiences relevant to the job.

4. Prepare for Common Questions:

  • Practice responses to common interview questions (e.g., "Tell me about yourself," "Why should we hire you?").
  • Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.

5. Anticipate Behavioral Questions:

  • Be ready to provide examples of how you've handled challenges or demonstrated key skills.
  • Relate past experiences to the competencies required for the job.

6. Research Your Interviewers:

  • If you know the names of your interviewers, research their roles within the company.
  • Understand their backgrounds and any common interests.

7. Dress Professionally:

  • Choose appropriate attire based on the company's dress code.
  • Ensure your clothes are clean, neat, and well-presented.

8. Prepare Questions:

  • Develop insightful questions about the company, team, and role.
  • Asking questions shows your interest and engagement.

9. Practice Good Body Language:

  • Maintain eye contact, offer a firm handshake, and sit up straight.
  • Practice positive and confident body language during mock interviews.

10. Be Punctual:

  • Plan your route in advance, considering traffic and potential delays.
  • Aim to arrive 10-15 minutes early.

11. Bring Essential Documents:

  • Carry multiple copies of your resume.
  • Bring a list of references if required.

12. Prepare for Technical Assessments:

  • If the job involves technical skills, review relevant concepts or tools.
  • Practice coding exercises or technical challenges if applicable.
  • Be aware of current trends and developments in your industry.
  • Show that you are up-to-date and committed to continuous learning.

14. Follow-Up Procedures:

  • Understand the company's interview process and inquire about the next steps.
  • Send a thank-you email within 24 hours expressing your appreciation.

15. Mock Interviews:

  • Practice with a friend or career coach to simulate real interview conditions.
  • Receive feedback and work on areas that need improvement.

16. Cultural Fit:

  • Assess the company culture and values.
  • Demonstrate how your personality and work style align with the organization.

17. Handle Salary Discussions:

  • Be prepared to discuss salary expectations if the topic arises.
  • Research industry standards for the position.

18. Stay Positive and Confident:

  • Project a positive attitude throughout the interview.
  • Showcase your confidence without appearing arrogant.

By thoroughly preparing for a job interview, you not only increase your chances of success but also boost your confidence. Remember that every interview is a learning experience, and each opportunity provides valuable insights into your professional growth.

Preparations

Prepare well and believe in yourself. Have confidence in your potential and start preparing before the week itself.

Study your resume

Have an understanding of what you have produced in your resume. Read it and also keep several copies of it with you.

If at all any questions are being asked from the resume, your face should not look as if you were hearing it for the first time. Frame questions from your own resume and prepare beforehand brilliant and capturing answers.

Mock interviews


Get your friends or your family member to act as the interviewer and practice several times to get rid of the fear.

You can dress up how you would for an interview and practice introducing yourself even in front of your mirror. Remember to sound confident and happy.

How should you look?

Select the dress you would wear for the day. Choose something simple and pleasing for the eyes. Do not go about rummaging your cupboard for your dress at the eleventh hour.

Suggested Read: Dress for success

Learn your company

Google and find more and more about your company. Find out if you have the necessary skills needed to enrol in the company. Prepare to present a few words about how you can enhance the success rate of the company.

Be an early bird

Wake up early and freshen up. Do some meditation or yoga and make yourself at ease. A stressed mind is not going to perform well in the interview.

Please read the newspaper over a cup of coffee as you would on a normal day. At least be aware of the headlines for you should be conscious of what is happening around you. The interviewers, maybe, to cool you down ask about the current situations or happenings at first.

Reach the venue at least an hour before and get acquainted with the atmosphere. You can chitchat with the other candidates and release your tension.