An interview is more than just a conversation—it’s your opportunity to make a lasting impression, showcase your skills, and stand out from the competition. Whether you're a first-time job seeker or a seasoned professional, preparation is key. Here's your go-to guide for acing your next interview with confidence and clarity.
🔑 Before the Interview: Preparation Is Power
1. Research the Company
Learn about the company’s mission, values, culture, and recent news. Understanding who they are and what they stand for shows genuine interest and helps you tailor your responses.
2. Understand the Role
Review the job description thoroughly. Make a list of key responsibilities and match them to your own experience, accomplishments, and strengths.
3. Practice Common Interview Questions
Prepare for frequently asked questions like:
- Tell me about yourself.
- What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- Why do you want to work here?
- Describe a challenge and how you overcame it.
4. Prepare STAR Responses
Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers for behavioral questions. This approach helps you stay clear, concise, and results-focused. You can find further detail on the STAR method here.
5. Plan Your Outfit
Dress appropriately for the company culture. When in doubt, it's better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.
🎯 During the Interview: Make a Strong Impression
1. Be On Time (or Early)
Arriving 5–10 minutes early shows reliability and respect for the interviewer’s time.
2. Make Eye Contact and Smile
First impressions count. Greet your interviewer with a firm handshake (if in person), eye contact, and a genuine smile.
3. Listen Actively
Pay attention to the questions and avoid interrupting. Take a moment to think before responding, and don’t be afraid to ask for clarification if needed.
4. Showcase Your Achievements
Don’t just list duties—highlight achievements with numbers and outcomes (e.g., “Increased sales by 25% over 6 months”).
5. Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare 2–3 insightful questions that show curiosity and initiative, such as:
- What does success look like in this role?
- How do you support employee growth and development?
✅ After the Interview: Follow Through
1. Send a Thank You Email
Within 24 hours, send a polite and personalised thank-you note expressing appreciation for the opportunity and reiterating your enthusiasm for the role.
2. Reflect on Your Performance
Take notes on what went well and where you can improve. This will help you get even better for future interviews.
💼 Ready to Land Your Dream Job?
We’re here to help you take the next step. Whether you need one-on-one coaching, a CV review, or mock interview practice, our team is ready to support your journey.
register now contact us
FAQs About Interviewing
Q1: How long should my answers be?
Aim for 1–2 minutes per question. Stay concise, but provide enough detail to showcase your experience.
Q2: What if I don’t know the answer to a question?
Be honest. It’s okay to say, “I’m not sure, but here’s how I’d approach finding the answer.” This shows problem-solving and humility.
Q3: How do I handle gaps in my employment history?
Be honest and confident. Focus on what you learned or how you stayed productive (e.g., courses, freelancing, volunteering).
Q4: Should I bring notes to the interview?
Yes, bringing a few key notes or questions is acceptable and shows preparation, especially for virtual interviews.
Q5: How soon should I follow up?
A thank-you email should be sent within 24 hours. If you haven’t heard back after a week, it’s okay to send a polite follow-up.