Wondering how to prepare successfully for a job interview? If you’ve been selected to take part in a recruitment process, congratulations! This step could be the key to getting the job you want. Good preparation can make all the difference, whether the interview is in person or online.
So, why is it so important to prepare for a job interview?
It is one of the most important stages in the hiring process. The HR team uses this opportunity to find out more about you than is evident from your CV, such as how you communicate, what motivates you, and how you approach a challenge.
Read on for some useful tips to help you prepare and feel more confident on the day of your interview.
Tips for a successful job interview
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Review your CV. You're likely to be asked about your professional background. Take time to go over it to ensure you remember key dates, roles and experiences — this will help you speak clearly and avoid contradictions. Use this opportunity to highlight any academic or professional experiences that have helped you develop valuable skills.
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Know your strengths and weaknesses. One of the most common interview questions is about your strengths and areas for improvement. Think about these in advance and prepare real-life examples: how have you used a certain strength? How have you overcome a weakness? Speak confidently, but always be honest.
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Define your career goals. Consider why you are interested in this position and how it aligns with your future plans. Having clear goals demonstrates motivation and commitment, two qualities that employers value highly.
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Research the company. What does the company do? What are its values? Understanding who you’re speaking with can help you tailor your answers more effectively and demonstrate a genuine interest in the project. Even if you're interviewing with a staffing agency or recruitment firm (such as Axxon) and don't know the final company, you can still demonstrate your engagement with the process.
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Reread the job offer. Go back to the original job advert to review the responsibilities and requirements. Prepare to highlight the skills and experiences that match best.
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Prepare a few questions. When asked if you have any questions, take the opportunity to demonstrate your interest. Think of two or three questions about the team, the role or the next steps in the recruitment process. We give you some ideas in this article.
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Pay attention to the details. Professionalism goes beyond what you say. Be on time, dress appropriately, and communicate clearly and respectfully. If it’s a virtual interview, ensure you have a stable internet connection, a quiet space and an appropriately positioned camera.
Common job interview questions
While every interview is different, there are some questions that are frequently asked. It’s a good idea to prepare your answers in advance. Here are a few examples:
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Tell us a bit about yourself.
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What do you know about our company?
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Why do you want to work here?
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What are your strengths and weaknesses?
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Describe a professional challenge you have overcome.
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Where would you like to be in five years' time?
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What is your availability?
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Being well-prepared will help you feel calmer and more confident during the interview. You're one step closer to your next professional opportunity. Good luck!
