Dear Dr. Simcha,
A few weeks ago, I read your column about how to find a job (CV, cover letter, etc.), but do you have any tips on how best to prepare for a job interview? Thanks!
This is an excellent question and certainly an important part of the job search process. There are, of course, the obvious tips: be on time, stay confident, be honest, remain calm, and maintain eye contact. But it’s also crucial to thoroughly research the company you’re interviewing with. Even if you’re speaking with a recruiter, it’s useful to be well-prepared, as they will also assess whether you’re a good fit. Let’s dive into this a bit deeper:
The interviewer:
Do you know who will be interviewing you? Try looking up this person in advance. Can you find a photo or maybe some background information? Do you share any common interests? While it’s not necessary to bring up this knowledge directly during the interview, the more you know, the more at ease you’ll feel, knowing it may be easier to build a rapport.
The company:
In addition to researching the company itself, it’s also important to ask yourself why you want to work there. What appeals to you about this company? What is their work culture like? Why this specific role? What kind of support do they offer? Why are you interested in this organization, and in what ways can you add value to them?
About yourself:
Once you have a clear understanding of who will be interviewing you and what kind of company it is, you can start thinking about how this aligns with your professional ambitions and long-term goals. What type of person are you and what do you want to achieve? What have you learned so far? What areas would you like to develop? How can this company contribute to your growth?
Ask questions:
Save your questions for the end of the interview. It’s always a good idea to ask questions that you’ve prepared beforehand, or to follow up on topics discussed during the conversation. If it helps, you can take notes during the interview to ensure you don’t forget any important questions.
I hope this helps! Good luck with your preparations.
Dr. Simcha
