Preparing for an interview - Best practices
Are you ready to land that dream job? The interview process can be tough, but don't worry - we've got you covered! We’ll be sharing the best practices for preparing for an interview that will help you ace your next job interview.
Today, we'll be focusing on the preparation stage and sharing tips on how to research the company, the role, and the interviewer, so you can tailor your interview to their specific needs.
But wait, there's more! We'll then be breaking it down into three stages - before, during, and after the interview.
So, whether you're a recent graduate or a seasoned professional looking for a career change, let's dive into the essential steps you need to take before the interview to give yourself the best chance of success. Ready to make a great first impression? Let's go!
Before the interview
So you applied, your profile passed the initial screening and you have been invited to an interview - Congratulations! 🥳
🙄 Now what?
Unfortunately, we cannot just show up and expect things to go our way. As with any sales call, nailing an interview requires you to thoroughly prepare!
Before any interview, make sure you research and note down the following:
About the Company
- Culture, values, mission, vision
- Competitors, market status quo
- Financial situation, their investors
- Market positioning
- Strategy
- Latest news, projects, clients
About the role and you
- Role description and responsibilities
- Understanding of day-to-day activities
- Assessing your experience with specific skills required
- Matching soft and hard skills
About the interviewer(s)
- Their names and roles
- The team and their structures
- Background, experience, and common points
- Hobbies
- Personalities
Tailor your interview to your interviewer
Once you do your research, you should be clear about who you will be interviewing with. Depending on which stakeholder you speak with, they will have different interests and will be screening for different things.
Tailor the conversation accordingly.
Here are the most common things each role looks for:
- Recruitment Team - HR / Recruiters
- Your relevant experience
- Your learning potential
- Your mindset
- Your motivation
- Your passion
- Hiring Manager / Sales Team Manager
- Your specific industry/job-related knowledge
- Your training and experience in similar roles
- Your team fit and teamwork ability
- Your motivation
- Your passion
- Senior Managers / CEO or Founders
- Your company culture fit
- Your motivation
- Your passion
Easy right? Ok, now that you’ve thoroughly prepared, let’s have a look at what to do during the interview!
We hope you found these tips helpful in getting ready to land your dream job.
Remember, you gotta do your homework! Check out the company, the role, and the interviewer(s) to prepare your pitch and come across as a rockstar 🎸.
Now, go out there and crush that interview! You got this, champ! 🙌
This article belongs to the ultimate guide to securing your dream job in 2023! Join us as we embark on a journey of exploration and discovery, diving into the secrets of building and promoting a standout professional identity, mastering the art of crafting a winning CV, LinkedIn profile, and networking strategy, and learning the best strategies for finding opportunities, acing interviews, and making the right career choices. Check the complete series here out!
Keep an eye out for our next post how to use the STAR method to nail your interview like a boss, it is a game-changer.
