How to Prepare for an Interview
By Bett Bollhoefer
Interviews can be very stressful, unless you are fully prepared!
Preparing for an interview can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can set yourself up for success. The key to acing an interview lies in understanding both yourself and the job you’re applying for. From aligning your personal goals to tailoring your resume and practicing interview techniques, there are steps you can take to be fully prepared. In this blog, we'll break down a simple yet effective process to help you get ready for your next big opportunity.
1. Align Your Desires
The first step in preparing for an interview is knowing what you truly want. This internal alignment might take time—sometimes months or even years—but it’s essential. Consider these three aspects to guide your reflection:
- Daily Activities: What tasks do you want to engage in regularly?
- Impact: What kind of difference do you want to make in the world?
- People: Who do you want to serve and work alongside?
2. Identify Target Jobs
Once you're clear on your desires, identify the jobs, careers, or companies that align with your goals. Start by listing job titles that match your vision. If your current experience doesn’t qualify you for a specific role, plan a career pathway that includes intermediate steps. These smaller roles will help you gain the necessary experience to reach your ultimate goal.
3. Tailor Your Resume
Job descriptions are crucial. When preparing your resume, focus on including the exact terms and phrases used in the job posting. Automated systems scanning resumes look for specific keywords—not synonyms. By mirroring the language from the job description, you increase your chances of getting through the initial screening.
4. Research and Reflect
Research the company and the position thoroughly. To effectively prepare for your interview:
- Identify five key qualities you possess that directly match the job description.
- Write down five stories using the STAR method:
- Situation: Describe the context or background.
- Task: Explain the task or goal you needed to achieve.
- Action: Detail the steps you took to accomplish it.
- Result: Share the outcome and what you learned.
5. Practice Interviewing
Finally, practice answering common interview questions. Ask a friend to quiz you, focusing on the job description. Keep your answers concise, aiming for 1 to 2 minutes per response, always following the STAR format. This brevity ensures you remain focused, while giving the interviewer space to ask follow-up questions.
Summary
Preparation is the foundation of a successful interview. Start by aligning your goals with the type of work and people you want to engage with. Then, identify roles that match your vision, and tailor your resume to reflect the exact language of the job description. Research the company, create STAR stories, and practice answering common questions to build confidence. By following these steps, you’ll approach your interview with clarity and readiness, putting yourself in the best position to succeed.
