Interview Prep: Succeeding in Your Next Interview

Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but with the right preparation, you can turn anxiety into confidence.  

An interview is your chance to showcase your skills, experience, and personality, so being ready is key.  

Here are some essential tips to help you succeed in your next interview. 

1. Research the company 

Understanding the company you’re interviewing with, demonstrates your interest and enthusiasm. To prepare: 

• Visit their website to learn about their mission, values, and products/services. 

• Read recent news articles about the company to stay updated on their achievements and challenges. 

• Review their social media channels to understand their culture and priorities. 

2. Understand the role 

Carefully study the job description to identify the key responsibilities and required skills.  

Think about how your experience aligns with these needs and prepare examples that highlight your qualifications. 

3. Practice common interview questions 

While you can’t predict every question, there are some classics that often come up in interviews. Preparing your answers to these will help you feel more confident and avoid being caught off guard. 

Examples include: 

• “Tell me a bit about yourself.” 

• “Why are you interested in this role?” 

• “What do you know about our company?” 

• “Where do you see yourself in five years?” 

• “What motivates you at work?” 

Think about how your answers highlight your skills, experience, and enthusiasm for the role. Keep them clear, positive, and to the point. 

4. Get ready for competency-based questions 

Many employers now use competency-based questions to see how you’ve demonstrated key skills in real situations. These questions usually start with “Tell me about a time when…” or “Give me an example of…”. 

Examples include: 

• “Tell me about a time you worked in a team to solve a problem.” 

• “Describe a situation where you had to manage competing priorities.” 

• “Give me an example of when you delivered excellent customer service.” 

When answering, always use STAR: 

• Situation – set the context. 

• Task – explain what needed to be done. 

• Action – describe what you did. 

• Result – highlight the outcome, ideally with measurable results. 

Having a bank of examples ready will help you answer these confidently. 

5. Prepare questions for the interviewer 

Interviews are a two-way street. Asking thoughtful questions shows your interest and helps you determine if the role is a good fit. Consider questions like: 

• “What does success look like in this role?” 

• “Can you describe the team I’d be working with?” 

• “What are the company’s priorities for the next six months?” 

6. Dress for success 

First impressions count, and what you wear can set the tone for the whole interview. Always research the company’s dress code beforehand. Some workplaces expect formal business wear, while others may lean towards smart-casual.  

Aim to dress slightly smarter than the day-to-day standard, as this shows respect for the opportunity and effort in your preparation. 

Even if the environment is very casual, turning up clean, tidy, and well-presented demonstrates professionalism and gives the interviewer confidence in how you might approach your work. 

7. Practice good body language 

Non-verbal communication can speak volumes. During the interview: 

• Maintain eye contact to convey confidence and attentiveness. 

• Sit up straight and avoid fidgeting. 

• Smile and use natural gestures to express enthusiasm. 

8. Be punctual 

Plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early. Factor in potential delays and have the address, directions, and contact information handy in case of emergencies. 

9. Practice virtual interview etiquette 

If your interview is online, ensure you’re ready by: 

• Testing your technology ahead of time. 

• Choosing a quiet, well-lit location with a professional background. 

• Maintaining eye contact by looking at the camera. 

• Remembering to smile 

10. Follow up after the interview 

Send a thank-you email within 24 hours. Express your appreciation for the opportunity, reiterate your enthusiasm for the role, and briefly highlight how your skills align with the position. 

Conclusion 

Preparation is the key to acing your next interview. By researching the company, practicing your responses, and presenting yourself professionally, you can approach the interview with confidence and make a lasting impression.  

Remember, every interview is a learning experience, so take each one as an opportunity to grow and improve. 

Good luck in with your next interview.