Some Basic Interview Tips
Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but with the right preparation and mindset, you can confidently present yourself as the best candidate for the job. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a first-time job seeker, these basic yet crucial interview tips will help you make a great impression.
1. Research the Company
This sounds obvious but research the company. Use ChatGPT, Perplexity or similar to find out about the company’s history, mission, values, key personnel, latest developments, products and recent news. Familiarizing yourself with the company's background will help you tailor your answers to align with their goals and show genuine interest in the position.
2. Understand the Job Description
Carefully review the job description and make a list of the required skills and qualifications. Prepare examples from your past experiences that demonstrate how you meet these requirements. In addition to this, you should prepare answers to address any gaps as you may not have all the qualifications required - think about adjacent technologies you use, or transferrable skills. This will help you confidently answer questions about your suitability for the role.
3. Dress Appropriately
First impressions matter. Dress professionally based on the company culture. If you’re unsure, opt for business casual or formal attire to ensure you look polished and put together. Yes this goes for Zoom calls too!
4. Prepare Common Interview Questions
Practice answering common interview questions such as:
Tell me about yourself.
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Why do you want to work here?
Can you describe a challenging work situation and how you handled it?
Rehearsing your responses will help you feel more prepared and articulate. Use sites like Glassdoor, Blind, Levels.fyi to get a sense of what they may ask you. Other candidates who have been through the interview process often tell you the types of questions a companies ask.
5. Use the STAR Method and Prepare Anecdotes
When answering behavioral questions, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to provide structured and detailed responses. This approach ensures you provide clear, relevant examples of your past experiences. Using this alone might sound like you’re just reiterating what you said on your résumé be prepared to tell a short story or anecdote that shows how you solved problems in previous positions. Think about what might be relevant to the company you’re interviewing with.
6. Practice Good Body Language
Non-verbal cues play a significant role in interviews. Maintain eye contact, offer a firm handshake, sit up straight, and avoid fidgeting. Confidence in your body language conveys professionalism and self-assurance.
7. Listen Actively
Listening is just as important as speaking. Pay close attention to the interviewer’s questions and take a moment to think before responding. This shows that you are engaged and thoughtful in your answers.
8. Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare a few questions to ask the interviewer about the role, company culture, and growth opportunities. This demonstrates your enthusiasm and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.
9. Be Mindful of Your Online Presence
Many employers check candidates’ social media profiles before making hiring decisions. Ensure your online presence is professional, and remove any inappropriate content that could affect your chances of landing the job.
10. Follow Up with a Thank-You Email
After the interview, send a personalized thank-you email expressing appreciation for the opportunity. Reiterate your interest in the role and briefly highlight why you're a great fit. This small gesture can leave a lasting positive impression.
Final Thoughts
Successful interviews require preparation, confidence, and effective communication. By following these general interview tips, you’ll increase your chances of securing the job you want. Approach each interview as a learning experience, and with practice, you’ll master the art of making a strong and lasting impression.