Essential tips for job interview preparation

Focus on the details

When preparing for a job interview, the small details often make a significant difference. Plan your route to the location, select an appropriate outfit, and ensure your online profiles—like LinkedIn or Teams—are updated. Tom Igbeleyi once said, "The most prepared person gets the role, not the smartest." Attention to these elements can set you apart.

Research the company and industry

Learn about the company and its industry by exploring their website, reading recent news articles, and reviewing industry reports. Familiarise yourself with the company’s mission, values, products, and competitors. This not only demonstrates genuine interest but also allows you to align your responses with the company's culture and needs. Additionally, this research helps you decide whether this is a company you'd enjoy working for.

Analyse the job description

Examine the job description to identify key requirements and match them with relevant skills from your experience. Think of specific examples where you’ve demonstrated these skills—this makes your answers more impactful and memorable to interviewers.

Curating your elevator pitch

One common interview opener is, "Tell me about yourself." Here’s how to respond:

1. Start with your professional background – Summarise your career path, focusing on relevant roles and achievements.
2. Highlight key accomplishments – Share specific examples that showcase your expertise and skills.
3. If changing careers – Explain your decision to transition and mention certifications or training that support your new direction.
4. Conclude with your strengths and value – Emphasise the unique value you bring to the company.

Practising different types of questions

Prepare to answer various types of questions commonly asked in interviews:

• Competency/behavioural questions – These assess how you’ve handled past situations. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
• Technical questions – If the role involves technical skills, practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms.
• Brainteasers – These questions test your problem-solving skills. Reviewing common brainteasers can help you stay calm and think clearly during the interview.

The importance of asking questions

Always have questions ready when the interviewer invites them. This demonstrates your genuine interest in the role and company. Here are some ideas:

• What does a typical day look like in this role?
• Can you tell me more about the team I’ll be working with?
• How does the company measure success in this position?
• What advice would you give the successful candidate?
• What do you enjoy most about working here?

Tailor these questions to the specific company or industry for maximum impact.

Building confidence

Confidence is key in interviews. To boost your confidence, adopt some pre-interview routines, get enough rest the night before, and visualise a successful interview where you confidently answer questions. Remember, the interviewer wouldn’t invite you to an interview if they weren’t interested in your skills and experience. It’s okay to pause, breathe, and gather your thoughts before answering any question.

Being well-prepared often makes a greater impression than intelligence or qualifications alone. Small details, thorough research, practicing various question types, and building confidence are essential elements in job interview preparation.

At Learning People, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our Career Services team provides dedicated guidance, from crafting the perfect application to mastering the interview.