Preparing for a Job Interview

Key things to review and prepare for when going to a job interview to increase your chance of success.


Job interviews are an important step in the employment process. They allow employers to get to know potential employees and determine whether they would be a good fit for the job. However, interviews can be intimidating, especially for those who are new to the process. In this article, we will discuss some do's and don'ts for job interviews that will help you make a positive impression on potential employers.

Dress appropriately 

One of the most important things to do for a job interview is to dress appropriately. Dressing professionally shows that you take the interview seriously and that you respect the potential employer. This means wearing clean, neat, and ironed clothes. Avoid wearing clothes that are too revealing, too casual, or too flashy.

Be Early

Showing up 5-10 minutes early for a job interview is another important aspect to consider. Arriving early shows that you are punctual and respectful of the interviewer's time. It also gives you a chance to gather your thoughts, review your notes, and calm your nerves before the interview.

However, make sure that you don't arrive too early. Arriving more than 10 minutes early can be awkward for the interviewer and may cause them to feel rushed or unprepared. If you do arrive too early, take a walk around the building or wait in your car until it's closer to the interview time.

Greet the interviewer properly 

When you arrive for the interview, make sure to greet the interviewer properly. Shake their hand firmly and maintain eye contact. This shows that you are confident and professional.

Don't talk too much 

While it is important to be prepared to answer questions, you should avoid talking too much during the interview. This can make you appear nervous, unprepared, or even arrogant. Instead, try to listen carefully to the questions asked and provide concise, thoughtful answers.

Don't talk too little 

On the other hand, it is also important to make sure that you are not too quiet during the interview. You should be prepared to ask questions and engage in conversation with the interviewer. This shows that you are interested in the position and that you have done your research.

Ask if you have questions 

At the end of the interview, you will usually be given the opportunity to ask questions. Take advantage of this and ask thoughtful questions about the company and the position. This shows that you are genuinely interested in the job and that you have done your research.

Follow up after the interview 

After the interview, it is a good idea to follow up with the interviewer. Send them a thank you email or note, reiterating your interest in the position and thanking them for their time.

In conclusion, job interviews can be nerve-wracking, but they are an important step in the employment process. By following these do's and don'ts, you can make a positive impression on potential employers and increase your chances of landing the job.

Things to remember:

  • Dress professionally
  • Greet the interviewer properly
  • Don't talk too much or too little
  • Ask thoughtful questions
  • Follow up after the interview
  • Be a few minutes early to your interview

From Lesson: Interviewing Skills

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From Learning Gig: Employment Soft Skills

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