5 interview preparations you shouldn't forget!

When you get the call inviting you for an interview, it’s all hands on deck. What should you wear? What amazing answers should I prepare? Should I write some questions of my own? Yes, these are all great questions to consider, so go for it.

However, we decided to share 5 interview preparations you shouldn't forget... but often do! Even if you touch upon the points below, there are great ways to optimise your responses and seal the deal.

The top 5 Interview preparations you shouldn't forget

1) Knowledge of the job description 

Now, we are not saying you haven’t read it at all. You have looked over it before you applied, and you’ll look at it again to consider what kind of questions you’ll be asked. But, you should study it perfectly for the purpose of your own questions. You should prepare questions to find out more, and show enthusiasm for the role you are interviewing for. It’s good to ask questions to deduce if the role and company are definitely the right fit, too. However, make sure you’re not asking questions where the answers were readily available beforehand…especially if it’s on the job description. 

2) Company info

Again, we know you will do some background research. However, there is a way to go deeper than statistics and company achievements so far. What are their values and ethics? Do they support a particular cause? You can express a deeper interest in what they are about, and show them you have considered them seriously as a cultural fit.

3) Your background 

No one knows your career history better than you. So, give them more than past achievements (which are great of course!). What has been your favourite part of your career journey? What was the highlight from your previous/current place of employment? Being positive about your previous employers will show you are fully dedicated to your career, and ready to progress with a great positive attitude. So, rather than a list of achievements, tell your story. It will be something different and interesting for the employer to listen to.

4) Positive weaknesses 

Those two words aren’t usually seen together but, in an interview, they are a match made in heaven! If you are asked about your weaknesses, it’s easy to blurt out one or two things. STOP! Hold on for a second. Before the interview, think about what you are doing right now to improve on areas that need work. Immediately, you are being positive about the things you don’t always excel in. Furthermore, think about how this new role will expel the weaknesses altogether. This way, you are acknowledging your weaknesses as something you’re already actively improving.

5) Prepare your resources

Have your CV? Good, now print another few copies to bring along. Do you have to prepare some examples of work for a small task? Great, but don’t forget to print a few copies. You will be in contact with the hiring manager throughout the process, but you can never be sure it will just be the two of you. Be prepared for anything, and while extra copies seem like a subtle positive, it will demonstrate your initiative.

All will be well if you prepare, and go in to the interview full of confidence. We hope these often overlooked tips help for the dream job!