Job Interview Preparation

It is essential to research about the company thoroughly before the interview. The more you know about the company, the better your chances of getting the job. Here are some things you should learn about the company.

• What is the company's culture, vision and values?
• What are the company's core products and services?
• Who are the key players in the company?
• Who are their competitors?
• Are there any recent news or events about the company?
• What are they looking for in a candidate?

It is also critical to review common interview questions and prepare answers that relate to the skills the employer is looking for. Some of the common interview questions includes:

• How would you describe yourself?
• Why are you leaving your current job?
• What are your key strength and weaknesses?
• What management style do you find works best for you?
• Where do you see yourself in 2 or 5 years' time?
• Why are you the right candidate for the job?
• Tell me about a situation where you have to solve a difficult situation.
• What is your greatest accomplishment you are most proud of completing?

A job interview is a two-way process and it is also your opportunity to find out about them. Do prepare questions you would like to ask the interviewer to learn whether the role and company are right for you. Here are some basic questions to get you started.

• Can you tell me more about the day-to-day responsibilities of the job?
• What are the most important qualities for someone to excel in this role?
• Can I know more about the team I will work with?
• Can you describe the culture of the company?
• What are the training opportunities?
• What are the opportunities for career progression?
• What is the next step in the interview process?

The Interview

Making a good first impression is especially important during a job interview.

• Make sure you arrive 10-15 minutes earlier.
• Bring copies of your resume, references, letter of recommendation, transcripts, etc.
• Dress professionally and switch off your mobile phone.
• Relax and have confidence in your research and preparation.
• Greet your interviewer and shake hands firmly while smiling.
• Maintain eye contact and display confidence during the interview.
• Listen carefully and give direct and honest answers.
• If you don't understand a question, don't rush to reply, instead ask for it to be clarified.
• Close the interview with a handshake and a genuine thank you. Make a positive last impression.

After the interview

It is important to keep the lines of communications open. Be proactive and follow up with an email to thank them for their time and reiterate your interest in the job. This follow-up is useful as it brings you back to the top of the interviewer's mind as they may have interviewed many other candidate for the role.

Additionally, while it is still fresh in your mind, write down a short summary about the interview. This is to determine which areas you felt went well and questions you found difficult to answer. This will help you prepare of a possible second interview with the company or interviews with other companies.