How to prepare for a job interview? 

A job interview. Exciting, we know. It's your moment to shine. Yet you often see that it's not skills that do it, but preparation. And let's be honest: doing a little homework can really make all the difference. In this blog, we give you tips, examples and some do's & don'ts, so that you will leave an unforgettable impression.

Why preparation is your superpower

Recruiters feel it right away: you come unprepared. Ai. Whether you have no idea what the company does, don't know why you want to work here or look blank at ‘What are your strengths and weaknesses?’, it doesn't come across nicely. And guess what? You can fix that. Check out the tips below.

• Google is your best friend
  One of the biggest turn-offs? Having no idea what the company does. So: dive into that website, read their mission statement, check out their socials. Know what they care about and translate that into what you have to offer.
  
  
• Own your own story
  Your CV is your foundation, but your story is what sticks. Why did you choose that study? What did you learn from that side job? What are you looking for in your next step? Show who you are, and above all: why you fit in here.
  
  
• Prepare for the usual suspects
  The question of all questions: ‘What are your weaknesses?’ And no, ‘I am a perfectionist’ is not an answer. Be honest and show that you are growing. For example, ‘I found presenting difficult, but I have developed myself by taking presentation training courses.’Other questions you can expect anyway:
  
  Why do you want to work with us?
  What are your strengths?
  Where do you see yourself in five years?
  Why should we hire you in particular?
  
  Pro tip: give concrete examples. That's how you score.
  
  
• Practice, even when it feels awkward
  Practise with a friend or just in front of the mirror. It will help you speak more fluently and spot where you are still unsure. Trust us, you'll feel it immediately in the conversation.
  
  
• Asking questions = scoring points
  No questions at the end? Sin. Prepare at least two:
  
  What does a working day look like?
  What makes someone successful in this role?
  What does the team look like?
  
  This shows that you are not just coming to get, but bringing.
  
  
• Online interview? Just as serious
  Yes, Zoom, Teams, Google Meet: whatever you use, it's here to stay. So test your tech, make sure you have a quiet background and dress as if you are on location. Tip: look into the camera, not at yourself.
  
  
• Second call incoming? Time to level up
  Nice! You're in the next round. Now you get to go into more depth: who are your colleagues, what are the real challenges of the job? Prepare like it's your last chance, because maybe it is.

Good preparation is not rocket science, but it will give you a head start. And hey, you don't have to do it alone.

At JUSTIN, we're right beside you. From vacancies for young professionals to preparing your job interview: we help you grow.

Are you ready for the next step? Let's go!