Research Like A Pro: How To Ace Your Interview Prep

When it comes to flourishing in job interviews, preparation is the key.  Of course, each recruitment process differs, but by being organised and spending some time conducting research, this can lead you onto the road of success.

But what activities should you being doing beforehand to prepare? To ensure that you are not caught off guard, here are six ways you can ace you interview prep…

Don’t Just Research The Role
While ensuring you have a good understanding of what the role entails in keys, it is also equally important to thoroughly research other parts of the company. Interviewers will expect you to have a good understanding of what the organisation does and who are their main competitors are. By researching the business, it will also help you understand the company culture and whether you will be a good fit.  Also, don’t forget to look the hiring manager up on LinkedIn, so you are able to connect with them on a more personal level during the interview.

Be Willing To Talk About Yourself
When prepping for an interview, you are likely to practice some common competency questions, however don’t forget  it is becoming increasing common for companies to get to know someone’s personality too. The reason behind is to see if you would fit in well with the existing team and if you share common goals with the business so be prepared to talk about life outside of the workplace.   

Create A Portfolio
A great way to impress a hiring manager is to present them with a portfolio of your work or your highest achievements. If you’re unsure of what to bring with you; pop in another copy of your CV or the application form which you originally completed and present it clearly in a folder. Also pop in some copies of any relevant qualifications which will support your application during the interview process. Carrying a notepad and pen with you will also ensure that you are prepared to make any notes during the interview.

Possess Firm Examples
Throughout most job interviews, you will be asked a number of competency based questions such as, ‘how do you deal with a difficult customer?’ You can fully prepare for these questions by having a firm example of when you have had to deal with this situation in the past. This will further help you to convince the hiring manager that you are the most suitable person for the role.

Prepare Your Own Questions
A recruiter will often ask if you have any questions for them during the interview; this is to gage if you are informed, engaged and interested in the role and the company. This is your opportunity to showcase that you have conducted your essential research; some great questions to ask could be based on what are the main challengers which the department faces, what key skills the interviewer is looking for and what professional development opportunities the company offers it’s staff. Always end by enquiring about the next stage in the recruitment process so you can keep well informed about when you will hear a decision by.  

Nail The Logistics
What you will wear to the interview and how you will get to the location are a key part of the preparation process. If you can, practice your journey beforehand so you won’t be left with any surprises which might make you late on the day. The day before your interview, ensure your interview outfit is ready to go to also minimise any stress.