How to prepare for an interview?

I recently received a promotion at work and with it came new responsibilities. Two of these were to attend press conferences and hold interviews looking for potential future team members.

Confidence has always been something that I have had once I know someone really well or once I have the knowledge on a topic. For attending press conferences, holding interviews or being the interviewee, confidence is an attribute that can be admired.

This week I have given several interviews and attended a virtual press conference. Whilst I was nervous - particularly with the press conference - I found ways that helped ease my nerves. And I thought that I can't be the only person who gets nervous, so why not share my advice.

So, here are some tips to help prepare yourself for interviews:

Know your stuff:

Sometimes being spontaneous can be an advantage, but in the case of interviews, preparation is key. There is nothing worse than having an interview, whether you're the interviewer or interviewee, and being unprepared.

Before an interview, I've found that it is best to make sure you know everything you possibly can. If you're the interviewer, it's best to know the applicant: who they are, what experience they have, what they're currently doing. But if you are on the other side of the table, it's always good if you know where you are applying and to who you are applying for. Brush up on what the company's about, what they do, and their general ethos.

Anticipate potential questions:

In an interview, questions are always going to be present. They will be asked by both parties, the interviewers and the applicants.

There are typical interview questions, such as 'What do you think you can bring to the company?', but even the most common and simple of questions need some practice. I find it best to make sure I have an idea of what I could answer to potential questions. Looking at the place you've applied for could help give you an idea of potential questions.

If you're the interviewer, then it's still good to anticipate some questions that applicants could ask during an interview. That way you will already have answers you can give.

Don't be afraid to ask questions:

Whilst anticipating questions is always useful, having some of your own can also help.

When in an interview never be afraid to ask questions no matter what side of the table you're on. Obviously, it's expected from the interviewers to ask questions, but if you're the applicant it can be a good thing to ask some as well. It can show initiative, curiosity and the ability to question employers. It might just be to find out more about the company or it might not.

Whatever your questions are, don't be afraid to ask them.

Practice:

The one thing that is almost certain to get you prepared for interviews is practice.

The saying 'Practice Makes Perfect' is true. Or it is for me. I've always found that if I prepare and practice for things, anticipating possibilities, then I don't feel as nervous. Practicing your knowledge, practicing your questions, and practicing your answers will help you feel prepared for most eventualities.

Have self-belief:

This is probably one of the most important steps when preparing for an interview.

Self-belief is a quality everyone should have. If you go into the interview, as an applicant, with little self-belief then your potential employers will wonder if they should believe in you when you don't believe in yourself. Likewise, if you are an interviewer with little self-confidence and belief, then the applicants might doubt why they should be applying for you.

It's easy to say don't let the nerves get to you, but it's easier said than done. But to try and have self-belief is key.

Never give up:

This goes alongside the above tip in terms of importance.

If you really want something, never give up. If you aren't successful in an application, never give up.

Always come back fighting and stronger than before. Never give up!

If you have an interview coming up, I hope these little tips help.

Until next time...