The interview is your opportunity to transform from a resume into a compelling candidate. Even the most qualified applicants can fail without strong interview skills. Mastering interviews combines preparation, practice, and presence.
Before the Interview
Research Thoroughly
Knowledge demonstrates genuine interest:
- Study the company's mission, values, and recent news
- Understand their products, services, and competitors
- Research the interviewer(s) on LinkedIn
- Review the job description in detail
Prepare Your Stories
Behavioral interviews ask about past experiences. Use the STAR method:
- Situation: Set the context briefly
- Task: Describe your responsibility
- Action: Explain what you specifically did
- Result: Share the outcome, ideally with metrics
Prepare 5-7 stories that demonstrate key competencies: leadership, problem-solving, teamwork, overcoming challenges, and achievements.
Prepare Questions to Ask
Quality questions show engagement and help you evaluate the opportunity:
- What does success look like in this role?
- What are the biggest challenges facing the team?
- How would you describe the company culture?
- What do you enjoy most about working here?
During the Interview
First Impressions
You have seconds to make an impression:
- Arrive 10-15 minutes early (or log in early for virtual)
- Dress appropriately for the company culture
- Offer a firm handshake and genuine smile
- Make eye contact
- Project energy and enthusiasm
Answering Questions
- Listen carefully to the full question
- Take a moment to organize your thoughts
- Be concise—aim for 1-2 minute responses
- Use specific examples, not generalities
- Quantify results when possible
Common Question Types
"Tell me about yourself"
Craft a 2-minute narrative connecting your experience to this role. Focus on relevant highlights, not your life story.
"What's your greatest weakness?"
Choose a genuine area for growth (not a strength disguised as weakness) and describe how you're improving.
"Why do you want this job?"
Connect your skills and interests to the specific role and company. Show you've done your research.
"Where do you see yourself in 5 years?"
Express ambition while showing interest in growing with this company.
Virtual Interview Tips
- Test technology in advance
- Ensure good lighting and clean background
- Look at the camera, not the screen
- Minimize distractions in your environment
- Have notes nearby, but don't read from them
After the Interview
Send Thank You Notes
Within 24 hours, send personalized thank you emails to each interviewer:
- Express appreciation for their time
- Reference something specific from your conversation
- Briefly reiterate your interest and fit
- Keep it concise (3-4 sentences)
Follow Up Appropriately
If you haven't heard back by the stated timeline, follow up politely once. Then respect their process.
Learn from Each Interview
After every interview, reflect:
- What went well?
- What could I improve?
- Which questions were difficult?
- What would I do differently?
Handling Tough Situations
Questions You Can't Answer
It's okay to not know everything. Acknowledge honestly, then pivot to what you do know or how you'd find the answer.
Addressing Gaps or Concerns
If you have employment gaps or other potential red flags, prepare concise, honest explanations that pivot to your value.
Interview skills improve with practice. Consider mock interviews with mentors or friends. Combined with strong networking and negotiation skills, interview mastery accelerates your career growth.
