Your resume got you the interview — now it's time to leave a strong impression in that conversation. Interview preparation isn't something to leave to improvisation; systematic preparation visibly boosts both your confidence and your performance. This article covers the steps to follow before, during, and after the interview.
1. Research the Company and the Position
- Learn what the company does, what industry it operates in, and any recent developments (news, product launches, if any).
- Reread the posting text and note the connections between the required qualifications and your own experience.
- Get a sense of the company's culture and values (website, social media).
2. Review Your Own Experience
Reread every line on your resume and, for each one, think "what would I say if I got asked about this?" In particular, prepare the bullet points in your experience section so you can explain them verbally in the interview (see How to Write Work Experience on Your Resume).
3. Be Ready for Common Questions
Prepare short, clear answers for classic questions like "Tell me about yourself," "What are your strengths and weaknesses?", and "Why this position?" For detailed examples, see Frequently Asked Interview Questions and How to Answer Them.
4. Prepare for Behavioral Questions With the STAR Technique
For behavioral questions like "How did you handle a difficult situation?", preparing 3-4 concrete examples in advance keeps you from being caught off guard during the interview. We cover this technique in detail in What Is the STAR Technique?.
5. Prepare Your Own Questions
At the end of an interview, you're usually asked "do you have any questions?" Not asking anything can come across as a lack of interest. Questions you could prepare:
- "How is success measured in this role?"
- "What's the team's biggest priority right now?"
- "What's expected in the first 90 days in this role?"
6. Confirm the Logistics
Confirm whether the interview is online or in person, its time, its duration, and — if in person — the address. For online interviews, test your internet connection and camera beforehand.
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Update Your Resume Before the Interview7. After the Interview: Send a Thank-You Message
Sending a short thank-you email within a day of the interview is both a sign of courtesy and a way to put yourself back on their radar. In the message, thank them for meeting with you and briefly restate your interest in the position.
Conclusion
Good interview preparation comes down to researching the company, reviewing your own experience, preparing for common questions, and having your own questions ready. Systematic preparation reduces tension during the interview and boosts your performance.