How to prepare for a job interview? 5 key steps

A job interview is one of the very last stages of the recruitment process. After sourcing and finding candidates with attractive resumes, recruitment companies must check who really meets the expectations and fits the position profile. If you just got invited to one, you need to know how to prepare for a job interview. 

There are some details you must take into consideration before an interview. These may be that small factor that will make you stand out. At T2W we are experts in recruitment and talent acquisition, so we can reveal the key details that can help you get that job you really want. In this article, we will show you what to do before a job interview, all from the perspective of a recruiter. 

1. Being on time is not optional 

During the interview stage, recruiters have to meet many professionals every day. As you can imagine, their schedule is very packed. The last thing a recruiter wants is a candidate arriving late and delaying the whole process. That causes a terrible impression on people and shows that the applicant is not completely dutiful with the professional commitments. 

You might think it doesn’t usually happens, but tardiness is one of the main reasons candidates are rejected. That’s why you have to arrive to the organization premises at least 10 minutes before the job interview. That shows how seriously you take your professional life and that you are really interested in the position. 

The same applies for virtual events. To prepare for a virtual interview you have to download the app you will use for the interview one day in advance. Also, get familiar with the different features and options the platform offers. Lastly, check that the microphone and the headset is working correctly. This will save you a lot of problems and a possible delay. You should connect between 5 and 10 minutes earlier. 

2. The small details count 

If you want to be ready for a job interview, you have to work on your non-verbal communication skills. What do we mean by this? There are many details you express without saying a single word. For example, in average, candidates who smile while greeting, offer a firm handshake and make eye contact with the interviewer get better results. 

Later, during the interview, your body language reveals a lot about you and recruiters are experts in noticing those small details. Hiding your hands reveals that you are nervous. Try to use your hands to express yourself while talking. Your posture is another important aspect. Try not to lay back on the chair, but be always facing the interviewer. 

During the conversation, looking at the floor while answering a question makes you look like you are not sure about your answer. Always keep casual eye contact. All these are details you must consider to prepare for a successful job interview. This way, you will create a reliable image, which is exactly what recruiters want in candidates. 

You might like: How to you answer the question about your salary expectations? 

3. Prepare for the questions 

Ok, now you know how to be ready for a job interview when it comes to body language. Now you have to be ready for the questions you will be asked. Don’t worry, this isn’t rocket science. You just have to answer some frequent questions in work interviews and offer some extra information about your education and experience. These are some very common ones: 

• What are your weaknesses? 
• Why should we hire you? 
• Why do you want to work in our company? 
• Tell me about yourself. 

As you can see, these are not difficult questions, but you must have a clear idea of what you are going to answer. For this reason, is very important to practice the answers in advance. Additionally, the way in which you give the answers is key. You need to be ready to speak with confidence and without any doubt. 

4. Dress the right way 

As we previously mentioned, first impressions say a lot. All job interviews are formal meetings where you should cause the best impression possible. This is why you shouldn’t dress for the position you are applying to, but for the position you want. It can show your expectations and goals. The right suit can cause the right impression on recruiters. 

Avoid suits in bright or flashy colors. Try to use soft colors. Additionally, use only accessories that are subtle and not so flashy (watch, earrings, necklaces, etc.). Remember that the protagonist is you, not what you wear. 

However, with this we don’t mean that you have to always wear a two or three-piece suit. If the interview invitation says you don’t need to dress forma, follow the instructions. In the case the company doesn’t specify a dress code, you must always assume it’s formal. 

5. Research the company 

During the interview, there will be a moment when the recruiter will ask: “what do you know about our company”. You can’t let that question caught you off guard. It’s always necessary to make a small research for the company you are applying to. Showing you know about it demonstrate you are involved with the recruitment process. 

What to know about a company before interview? Well, first, a little about its history. When was it created? How many years does it have? What are its main achievements? Additionally, check its products or services. All this information should be available in the webpage.  

Now you know what you should do before an interview. Never forget that the key for success in job interviews is getting ready and considering all details. 

At Talent2Win, we strive to align your company’s business objectives with the best Talent Acquisition strategies available. If you want to learn more about the services we offer, do not hesitate to contact us.