Job Interview Preparation Tips

By: Keisha White
Career Services
Antonelli College Cincinnati

Before a job interview, make sure you have prepared and are set for it. Job interview preparation is necessary for every applicant. There are a few things you need to consider for that big day: personal grooming, character, promptness, and ethics. Most people are frightened with this kind of encounter, maybe because they are not prepared for it.

When you go to a job interview less prepared, this decreases the likelihood of you getting the job. You need to create a good impression and make a stupendous recall from the employer. So here are some points to remember as part of your job interview preparation.

First, research the company’s profile. When you want to be employed with a certain company, you have to know what they are doing in the industry. You need to research on their background, achievements, and milestones. Get necessary data on their organization such as products, services and other relevant issues. Identify their mission and vision and try to make a connection with your career objectives.

Oftentimes, the interviewer might ask you questions aligning your principles along with theirs. If you come across negative facts, just leave it. Do not bring it up during the interview. Also, you need to be familiar with the position you are applying for as well. Learn to identify the job description and other functions. It is also very important to know the location of the company. This will help you estimate the travel time from your house to your destination.

Second, try practice answering job interview questions and ask someone to evaluate your answers. It is good to let a different point of view appraise your ability in answering. Plus, it will also help you achieve confidence when talking to another person. Whether in school or with a staffing agency, you may undergo a mock interview. These are helpful to measure your quality by going over the feedback. You may also want to check online for some common job interview questions and how to answer them. Here are some questions to practice for:

1. Why have you chosen this company?
2. How will you make an impact in this company?
3. Why should they hire you?
4. What are your qualifications that are suitable for the position applied?

Third, get your interview marketing kit ready. This is a folder where essential documents are gathered so that when you go out and have your interview, you don’t have to be so jumpy in looking for your documents. In this folder, you will have your resume, certificates, references, and other essential documents. The interviewer might start by having a quick scan of your resume and pose some questions. So make sure to study your resume well. Be familiar with the entries you’ve written because if you sound unsure with the resume-related questions, your employer might think you are lying so answer honestly and clearly.

Lastly, as part of your job interview preparation, groom yourself. Days before your interview, you should have readied what clothes you are going to wear. Remember, even if you sound confident and positive, physical appearance is one of the factors that will be considered. You need to present that you are the whole package they are looking for.


Have questions in regards to preparing for a job interview? Please contact Keisha White at keisha.white@antonellicollege.edu.