Understanding the company’s mission, values, and culture shows the interviewer that you’re genuinely interested. Here are some ways to conduct your research:

• Review the company website: Pay attention to the “About Us” page, recent news, and leadership bios.
• Check their social media: This can give you a sense of the company culture and any current projects.
• Read industry news: Understanding where the company stands in its industry can give you a big-picture view.

The STAR Method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) is a structured way to answer behavioral questions. Here’s how it works:

• Situation: Describe the context within which you performed a task.
• Task: Explain the challenge or responsibility you faced.
• Action: Detail the specific steps you took to address it.
• Result: Share the outcome or what you accomplished.

Create several STAR stories to have ready answers for questions about teamwork, problem-solving, leadership, and more.

Asking thoughtful questions demonstrates your interest and gives you insights into the role. Consider asking:

• “What does a typical day in this role look like?”
• “What are the team’s biggest challenges right now?”
• “How do you measure success in this role?”
• “What are the growth opportunities within the company?” Having 3-5 questions prepared shows that you’re interested in the job beyond just getting hired.

Nonverbal cues speak volumes. Keep these in mind:

• Make eye contact: It shows confidence and engagement.
• Maintain good posture: Sit up straight and avoid slouching.
• Smile naturally: It makes you appear approachable and enthusiastic.
• Nod occasionally: This shows you’re actively listening.

A follow-up email is a great way to reiterate your interest. Here’s what to include:

• Thank them for their time and express your appreciation.
• Mention something specific from the interview to personalize the message.
• Reiterate your excitement about the role and your fit for the position.
• Keep it brief, sincere, and professional.

Before the interview, make sure you understand the job description inside and out. Break it down by:

• Identifying key responsibilities: Reflect on how your experience aligns with them.
• Highlighting required skills: Be ready to discuss how you’ve developed or used these skills.
• Noting any specific requirements or qualifications: Prepare examples that showcase your strengths in these areas.

There are some questions you’re almost guaranteed to encounter. Practicing these will help you feel more confident:

• “Tell me about yourself.” Summarize your background, highlight key achievements, and explain why you’re excited about this role.
• “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” For strengths, pick skills that align with the job. For weaknesses, choose something you’re actively working on improving.
• “Why do you want to work here?” Show how the company’s values, projects, or culture resonate with you.
• “Describe a challenge you faced and how you overcame it.” Use your STAR stories here to showcase problem-solving skills.

Your attire should be professional and suited to the company culture:

• For formal workplaces, wear business attire (like a suit or blouse with slacks or skirt).
• For more relaxed environments, choose business casual.
• Virtual interviews should also follow these rules; even though it’s online, looking polished can make a strong impression.

With virtual interviews becoming more common, be ready by:

• Testing your tech: Check your internet connection, camera, and microphone beforehand.
• Choosing a quiet, well-lit location: Make sure the background is professional or neutral.
• Looking into the camera: It mimics eye contact and helps build connection.
• Keeping notes handy: Jot down key points or reminders; they can be discreetly referred to if needed.

After the interview, take a few minutes to reflect:

• What went well? Recognize your strengths.
• What could have gone better? Identify areas to improve for future interviews.
• What did you learn? Each interview is a learning experience.