Most candidates prepare for interviews a few minutes before they join the call, we can guarantee that you will be asked ‘tell me about yourself’ or a variation of this. This question sets the tone for the rest of the interview. The goal here is simple: how does your background lead you directly to this point.
Research the company
- Understand what the company does, their products/services, and who their customers are. Research who their closest competitor is, and what their competitor does better than them.
- Also revisit the job description and identify the 2–3 skills they care most about. Look up reviews of their product/service on trust pilot.
Prepare your stories
Interviews are conversations, where employers are hoping they’ve found the right candidate. Interviewers remember examples, not generic statements.
Prepare 3 short stories:
• a problem you solved
• an achievement you’re proud of
• a teamwork example
A simple structure helps: Situation → Action → Result.
Showcase your value
You’re interviewing them as much as they’re interviewing you. Prepare a clear 30–45 second answer that covers:
• who you are
• your relevant experience
• why you’re interested in the role
Also, find three (3) immediate solutions that you’d recommend for when you start that covers;
- how the team might work better together.
- how the team can be more efficient.
- how you might save the company resources (money/time).
“What’s one interview preparation habit that has helped you the most? ”
What Do Employers Value Topmost – Experience or Education?
Prepare questions
- Good candidates answer questions.
- Great candidates ask thoughtful ones
For example:
• What does success look like in the first 6 months?
• What are the biggest challenges in this role?
Questions like the above are strategic, and reinforces that you are fit for the role.
Preparation doesn’t necessarily guarantee the job, but it dramatically increases the odds of a strong interview.
