Your CV got you to the interview door, now it's time to prove yourself face-to-face. Job interviews can be stressful, but with the right preparation, you can turn this process into an advantage. Research shows that interviewers make 90% of their decision within the first 7 minutes. In this guide, you'll find everything from pre-interview preparation to common questions, body language to follow-up emails.
Every year, millions of job interviews take place, and only 20% of candidates make it to the second round. Most failures stem from inadequate preparation, weak body language, and cliché answers. Whether you're preparing for your first interview or have 20 years of experience seeking new opportunities, this comprehensive guide provides all the tools to help you succeed.
1. Pre-Interview Preparation
A successful interview requires preparation that starts days in advance:
One Week Before:
- Research the company in detail
- Re-read the job posting and note keywords
- Be ready to explain every item on your CV
- Practice common interview questions
- Prepare your outfit
Day Before:
- Check the interview address and travel time
- Print 2-3 copies of your CV
- Get a good night's sleep
- Prepare questions to ask
2. Common Interview Questions
"Tell me about yourself"
This question opens the interview. Prepare a 2-3 minute summary: your current position, key achievements, and why you're right for this role.
"What are your strengths?"
Choose 3-4 strengths that match the job requirements. Support each with concrete examples.
"What are your weaknesses?"
Choose a real but non-critical weakness. The important thing is to explain how you're working to improve it.
"Why did you leave your previous job?"
Stay positive, don't criticize your former employer. Focus on reasons like career growth, new challenges, or industry change.
"Why do you want to work for this company?"
This question is your chance to show you've done your research. Mention specific things about the company's mission, values, recent achievements, or industry position.
"Where do you see yourself in 5 years?"
State realistic goals that align with the company. Be neither too modest nor too ambitious. Emphasize your desire to learn and grow.
"What are your salary expectations?"
Research industry standards beforehand. Give a range rather than a single number. Mention you're open to evaluating the total package (benefits, bonuses, remote work).
3. The STAR Technique
Answer behavioral questions (e.g., "How did you overcome a challenge?") using the STAR technique:
Situation
Briefly describe the situation you faced
Task
What was expected of you?
Action
What steps did you take?
Result
What was the outcome? (Support with numbers)
4. Body Language & Communication
Research shows that only 7% of communication comes from words. The rest is conveyed through tone of voice (38%) and body language (55%). Here's what to focus on:
Do
- Make eye contact (4-5 seconds, then briefly look away)
- Sit upright, lean slightly forward (shows interest)
- Use natural hand gestures
- Smile naturally and genuinely
- Nod occasionally to show engagement
- Use a warm and energetic tone of voice
Don't
- Cross your arms (appears defensive)
- Slouch or lean too far back
- Constantly check your watch/phone
- Shake your leg or fidget with pens
- Avoid eye contact
- Speak too fast or too slow
5. Video/Online Interview Tips
With remote work becoming widespread, video interviews are now standard. Here are important details that require different preparation than in-person interviews:
Technical Setup:
- Test the platform (Zoom, Teams, Meet) 24 hours before
- Ensure your internet connection is stable (prefer wired)
- Test headphones/microphone - audio quality is critical
- Position your camera at eye level
- Have a backup plan (phone number, alternative device)
Environment Setup:
- Choose a clean, professional background
- Sit facing natural light (backlighting will darken your face)
- Pick a quiet space, close the door
- Keep only essentials on your desk (CV, notepad, water)
Video Interview Body Language:
- Look at the camera, not the screen (simulates eye contact)
- Keep hand gestures within the camera frame
- Be slightly more energetic and expressive (camera reduces energy)
- Pause briefly before answering (there may be lag)
6. Questions to Ask the Interviewer
Answering "No" to "Do you have any questions?" is perceived as lack of interest. Prepare at least 3-5 questions:
- "What does success look like in this position?"
- "What would you expect from me in the first 90 days?"
- "What's the team structure? Who would I report to?"
- "What career development opportunities exist?"
- "How would you describe the company culture?"
- "What are the next steps in the hiring process?"
7. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many candidates get eliminated despite their technical competence due to these common mistakes:
Arrive 10-15 minutes early. Arriving more than 30 minutes early can also be awkward.
The biggest mistake that questions your professionalism. Always stay positive and diplomatic.
The question "What does your company do?" can end your career. Know at least the website, recent news, and industry position.
Don't bring up salary and benefits in the first round. Respond when the interviewer asks.
Instead of memorized answers like "I'm a perfectionist," give original and concrete examples.
A ringing phone during an interview is a big mark against your professionalism. It should be off, not just on silent.
8. After the Interview
Within 24 Hours:
- Send a thank-you email
- Reference important points discussed in the interview
- Reaffirm your interest in the position
Thank-You Email Example:
"Dear [Name],
Thank you for meeting with me today. It was inspiring to learn about
[Company]'s approach to [project/goal]. I'm excited about the opportunity
to contribute to these goals in the [Position] role.
I look forward to the next steps.
Best regards,
[Your Name]"
Conclusion
Success in a job interview is a combination of preparation and confidence. By applying the tips in this guide, you can present yourself in the best possible way and get one step closer to your dream job.
Remember: Every interview, whether you succeed or not, is a learning opportunity. Even if you're rejected, note which questions you struggled with and prepare for the next interview. Successful people are those who learn from their failures.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prepare for a job interview?
At least one week before the interview, research the company, review the job posting in detail, be ready to explain every item on your CV, and practice common questions. Prepare your outfit in advance and test the interview location/connection.
What's the most commonly asked interview question?
The most common question is "Tell me about yourself." Respond with a 2-minute structured summary: who you are (current position), your experience (key achievements), and why you want this position (future goals).
What should I do when asked about salary expectations?
Research industry standards first. Give a range rather than a single number (e.g., $60,000-$70,000), and mention you're open to evaluating the total package including benefits, bonuses, and remote work options.
What should I focus on in video interviews?
Technical preparation is critical: test the platform beforehand, ensure good internet, choose a professional background, and sit facing good lighting. Look at the camera (not the screen) to simulate eye contact.
What should I do after the interview?
Send a brief thank-you email within 24 hours. Reference an important point discussed in the interview and reaffirm your interest in the position. This professional touch will set you apart from other candidates.
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