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Preparing for a job interview - 7 pieces of advice

Preparing for a job interview

When you are invited to a job interview, it is because you have proven through your application and your CV that you are qualified for the job. This means that you have already done a good job; however, you have not finished yet. The job interview requires thorough preparation and you will only get one chance of showing the company why they should choose you. On this page, we have listed 7 pieces of advice on how to best prepare for the job interview.

  1. Gain insight into the company: Success at the job interview starts at home with solid preparatory work focused on gaining knowledge about the company with which you have the interview. This preparation shows that you are interested in the company and that you have taken the time to find out if it is a place for you. This is a good signal to send to the interviewer.

  2. Go through your application and your CV: Before the interview, you should reread your application and your CV and match these with the job advertisement. This will prepare you to explain in detail how you would solve the tasks mentioned in the job advertisement.

  3. Prepare questions: Before you go to the interview, it is a good idea to prepare a few questions to ask during the interview. You could, for example, ask about the contents of the job, the emphasis between the individual tasks, the other employees’ professional profiles, or the opportunities for professional development within the company.

  4. Dress for the job: When the day of the interview comes and you stand in front of your wardrobe, consider this: Dress to match the company you are being interviewed by. At the same time, you should stay true to yourself. Never wear clothes which you would not wear if you got the job.

  5. Overcome nervousness: It is normal to be nervous before an interview but it can be controlled. Remember that the interviewer has experienced many nervous applicants before, so your nervousness does not make you stand out negatively or disqualify you from the job. It is a good idea to practice the interview situation in a realistic staging by, for example, preparing answers for expected questions or conducting “test interviews” with family members or friends. All this can boost your confidence when you are at the interview.

  6. Prepare your opening carefully: A good start usually means a good interview. Therefore, it is important to practice getting off to a good start. Talk about everyday matters. If you have read an article about the company recently, comment on that. In this way, you will also engage the interviewer by establishing a two-way communication rather than a one-way communication.

  7. Arrange practicalities: Find out where the location for the interview is and how to get there. Be aware that some companies may have more than one address. Find out what is going to happen: Is it only an interview or will you be tested as well? And how much time should you set aside? Apart from a list of questions, it is a good idea to bring a copy of your application, your CV, your examination certificate, and any eventual recommendations. You can also bring the job advertisement if your application was solicited. Finally, bring your calendar in case you are going to schedule another interview.