Interview tips: before, during and after
Before
Prepare before the day
Good preparation makes you calmer. Spend an hour or two on the points below the day before.
- Read the job description again. Note the skills it asks for.
- Learn what the company does, from its own website.
- Read your own resume. Be ready to talk about every line.
- Prepare two or three real examples of your work or projects.
- Check the place, the time and the route.
Documents
What to carry
Papers
- Two or three printed copies of your resume
- Photo ID
- Education certificates, in a neat folder
Other things
- A pen and a small notebook
- Phone charged, and on silent
- Water and a little cash for travel
During
Answer clearly and honestly
Listen to the whole question. Take a moment to think. Then answer in short, clear sentences. Use a real example when you can.
If you do not know something, say so. Then tell how you would find out. An honest answer is better than a guess.
Avoid
Saying “I can do everything.”
Better
Name the tools and tasks you have really done.
Avoid
Speaking badly of your old employer.
Better
Say what you want to learn or do next.
Your questions
Questions to ask at the end
Asking questions shows interest. Keep two or three ready.
- What will the first weeks in this role look like?
- What does a good month of work look like here?
- Who will I work with most?
- What are the next steps, and when will I hear from you?
Phone and video
Phone and video interviews
Treat a phone or video call like a meeting in person. Sit in a quiet place with a good signal, and keep your phone charged. Keep your resume and a pen in front of you.
Join a few minutes early. Speak a little slower than usual. On video, look at the camera and keep the background plain.
After
Follow up after the interview
Send a short thank-you message the same day or the next day. Say thanks for their time, and that you are interested in the role. Keep it to a few lines.
If they gave you a date to reply by, wait until then. If you did not get the job, ask politely for any feedback, and keep going. Every interview is practice for the next.
FAQ
Common questions
How should I prepare for an interview?
Read the job description and learn what the company does. Prepare two or three real examples from your work or studies. Keep your documents ready, and plan your travel.
What if I do not know the answer to a question?
Say so honestly. Then explain how you would find the answer or how you would start. An honest answer is better than a made-up one.
Should I ask questions at the end of the interview?
Yes. Ask about the work, the team or what the first weeks look like. It shows you are interested. Do not start with salary questions unless the interviewer brings it up.
How do I do well in a phone or video interview?
Sit in a quiet place with a good network signal and a charged phone. Keep your resume in front of you. Speak slowly and clearly, and join a few minutes early.
Related reading
- Upload your resume
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- Resume ready: your next step
- Free resume builder
- Resume for freshers
- How to write a clean resume
- Which resume style to choose: Classic or Modern
- How to present yourself at an interview
- Why small details on your resume matter
- What is an ATS-friendly resume, and how to check yours for free
- Where to upload your resume to get a job in Mumbai