There, you’ve got it. congratulations!
Think landing an interview is the hardest pat? No, the real challenge is what comes next – preparing to make a lasting impression.
Next question – how well prepared are you for the interview?
Whether it’s your first interview or the 10th, each time the preparation needed must be thorough and must cater for the specific requirements of the position you have applied for.
Let’s quickly review the steps to be taken for the preparation. After all, you want to create a lasting impression.
Before the Interview
- Carry extra copies of your resume, a scribble pad, a pen/pencil, and a folder with your documents.
- Jot down all the expected and unexpected questions you can be asked. Think carefully and prepare your answers.
- Read up on the company, its values, culture, and recent achievements. Check employee reviews and news articles to gain deeper insights. If possible, connect with current or former employees to understand the work environment.
- Understand the job description thoroughly before applying. I once had a candidate who refused the job because it was not what he wanted to do. When asked the reason he applied, he confessed he had not read the whole description. Avoid such embarrassing situations.
- Identify the key responsibilities and skills required and be ready to explain how your past experience aligns with them.
- Make a list of your strengths and achievements that you want to highlight so you don’t forget anything important during the interview.
- Prepare questions to ask the interviewer about salary, benefits, career growth, or workplace culture. Ask them only if you’re asked.
- Practice mock interviews—ask your friend or mentor or just record yourself to analyse your body language and speaking style. Feedback will help you improve your presentation style.
Working on the Resume
Go over the resume a couple of times to ensure you’re familiar with the information and experiences you’ve mentioned.
Update it to include any new skills you’ve learnt or any new experiences you’ve had that can add value to your future job.
Modify the resume to suit the requirements of the job you’re applying for. Leave out parts that you feel are irrelevant.
Prepare a well thought-out cover letter to send along with the resume. My friend once received a poem (courtesy ChatGPT) as a cover letter! Let’s use creativity sparingly. Ditch the gimmicks or embellishments. Maintain a professional tone.
Reaching the Venue
Don’t ignore the logistics of how you will commute to the venue on the day of the interview.
Plan it well in advance. If it’s a local venue, check bus, metro, or cab options and their timings.
If you need a friend to drop you, arrange it beforehand.
If traveling out of town, plan your trip a day in advance to avoid last-minute panic.
Also, keep yourself updated about any expected unrests or delays or strikes which may disrupt your travel plans.
Dress to Impress
It does not mean wearing designer labels and high-end accessories.
All it takes is to turn up looking neat—in clean, ironed clothes and having a pleasant disposition.
When going for an interview, it’s important to be well-groomed.
A neat and polished pair of shoes add to the overall appearance. Ladies, you might not be wearing shoes, but you can’t turn up in worn-out sandals. Flip-flops are an absolute No-No.
For those working on a budget, keep a pair of footwear and matching outfit for interviews. This will save you the trouble of looking for something every time you’ve to go for an interview.
And don’t forget to deal with the major turn-offs—body odour and sweat marks.
Since more interviews are now virtual, dress professionally from head to toe. No sweatshirts or hoodies or t-shirts. Even if only your top half is visible, dressing properly will boost your confidence,
Look Confident
The first thing the interviewer will notice about you is the way you carry yourself—your body language.
You should look confident, not arrogant.
Maintain an open posture. Sit up straight, avoid crossing your arms, use natural hand gestures when speaking. Confidence speaks before you do.
A pleasant disposition and a smile always work wonders.
Don’t forget to smile and greet the receptionist. You never know who’s assessing you.
When you call up later to inquire about the status of the interview or other openings, she might remember you and be more helpful.
So don’t forget to smile and greet.
Think Positively. Think Clearly.
Now take a deep breath and relax.
Don’t fidget or move unnecessarily during the interview. Your actions expose your nervous state of mind. And believe me, that’s not the information you want to give out about yourself.
Make direct eye contact with the person you’re speaking to instead of looking around.
Use simple sentences to convey your thoughts. Your language skills are not being examined unless, of course, it’s the requirement of the job!
Since English has become the unofficial workplace language of communication in most places, practice speaking with friends to feel more comfortable.
If you’re still not confident, inform the interviewer about it—it’s better to be upfront than to struggle and look unprepared.
It also creates a positive impression of you as someone honest and willing to learn!
Industry-Specific Preparation
For technical or specialised roles, be prepared for job-specific or field-specific questions.
Research about the industry you’re applying for, stay updated on recent industry trends and company developments. Visit the company’s website, exploring the ‘About Us’ page or reviewing recent press releases.
Follow the industry leaders on LinkedIn or subscribe to relevant newsletters.
Understanding these nuances can give you an edge over other candidates.
If you’re changing the field or industry, be sure to be asked questions about them. No ranting or whining; they’re looking for people who can add value to the company, not whiners.
Manners Matter
First impressions will set the tone for the outcome of the interview.
Be punctual. Instead of reaching late and looking flustered, be there on time to give yourself some time to collect and compose yourself.
Go over your notes one last time and freshen up.
Magic words, people! At the end of the interview, don’t forget to thank the interviewer. A firm handshake, good eye contact and using the interviewer’s name in conversation can help build a strong rapport.
On your way out, say goodbye to the receptionist. Believe me, someone is always watching you, assessing you. Highlight your interpersonal skills without talking about it.
So put the best foot forward and let people be charmed by your demeanour.
Handling Salary Negotiation & Benefits Discussion
These are topics which need to be handled with care.
Salary discussions can be tricky. Research the average industry salaries for your role and location beforehand.
If you’re asked about salary expectations early, be ready to present a salary range rather than a fixed number, and justify your expectations based on your skills, experience, and market standards.
If unsure, ask about additional benefits like bonuses, insurance, and growth opportunities.
After the Interview
- Review your answers to see if they were satisfactory or if there was room for improvement.
- Make small notes of the different types of questions that were asked to prepare better for the future.
- In case you don’t get selected, conduct a thorough review to identify areas where you went wrong and how to improve.
- Send a thank-you email within 24 hours of the interview, mentioning something specific from the conversation to personalize your message. A small gesture that goes a long way in leaving a lasting impression.
Every interview is a learning experience. Approach it with confidence, preparation and a positive attitude, and you’ll increase your chances of success.
All the best, people! Put your best foot forward and go conquer the world!
