Step 1: Know your audience. Knowing your interview audience and the company will certainly help you with preparing your interview questions and answers. For the interview, will it be a panel or individual? If a panel, how many panelists will there be? For the company, what type of company is it? Is it privately held or publicly traded? How long have they been operating? Who is their target audience? Are they the industry leader or a strong competitor? Where are their corporate headquarters located?
Do your research and take notes of your discoveries. Collect annual reports, company news, browse their website, investigate them on Hoovers, talk to current/past employees, etc. The more you know of the company, the history, niche, competitors, business model and growth plans, the more prepared you’ll be to discuss their needs and how you are the person to get rid of their problem.
Step 2: Look forward and respond to their interview questions and answers A normal interview lasts a good 60 minutes. On the first few minutes, the interviewer will gradually set the tone by providing information on the company and the position. They will then refer to your resume, cover letter, portfolio, and any other information you provided, and begin asking you questions. These questions include: “Tell me a little about yourself.”; “Where do you expect to see yourself in 1-2 years?”; “What do you find challenging about this position?”; “What do you see as your key strengths and weaknesses?”; “We are interviewing many strong candidates, why should we hire you?”; “Why did you leave your last employer?”These are typical interview questions and answers that you need to be prepared to respond to. Some of these interview questions may be difficult for you. There is no excuse in showing your discomfort because you know they are coming your way. Prepare your responses. Try playing with an objective person to help you smooth out your answers.
