How Should I Prepare For A Job Interview?

Have you read and understood the job description properly?

Did you perform a research on what the company is and what is its' culture?

Did you prepare for the general questions for the interview?

Did you prepare some questions to ask during the interview?

Do you remember most of the details you have written in your resume?

Have you prepared a notepad and a pen to take with you to the interview?

The first step in the preparation process should be to go back and review the job description. Most job descriptions follow a similar pattern. The job title and department will give you an understanding of the major purpose of the position and where the role fits into the organisation, allowing you to discover who your potential line manager could be.

Organizations look to hire people with similar values to those of the company culture. Researching the company before an interview will give you an insight into the organization's future goals and plans and being able to discuss these points will make you seem like a long-term investment to your future employer.

One of the common interview questions you may be asked early on is, “Tell me about yourself.” Having an internal outline can help guide your answer. Keep it concise and focused on why your background makes you the best fit for this job opportunity. Knowing the most common types of job interview questions is an advantage - that way, you can craft your answers well in advance, and feel confident in your responses when the pressure is on.

In seeking a job, it’s important to remember that an interview isn’t just an opportunity for the employer to find out if you're a suitable candidate - the interview works both ways.

It is important to remember what you have jotted down on your resume as if the interviewer asks a pointed question from your resume about something you have written down, you should have an answer ready.

It’s appropriate to write down notes as the conversation progresses. You can refer to these notes to ask any questions at the end of the interview and can reference them when you follow-up after the interview to show them you were attentive and valued your time with them. Moreover, bring a note-pad if you feel you might forget important points.

You should also prepare clean clothes to wear to the interview and make sure to make eye contact and begin the interview with a firm handshake as this will signal your confidence when you meet your interviewer for the first time.