A few weeks ago, I spoke with a candidate who genuinely surprised me.
He had worked with several recruiters throughout his career, yet not one of them had ever prepared him for an interview. They arranged the interview, sent him the job description, wished him luck… and that was it.
When we started working together, I spent time preparing him properly. We discussed the company, the hiring manager, the role, likely interview questions, and how to present his achievements with confidence.
His reaction?
“I didn’t know recruiters actually did this.“
A few weeks later, he successfully passed all three interview rounds and accepted the offer.
Did my preparation get him the job?
No.
His skills, experience, and personality earned him the position.
The preparation simply helped him showcase those strengths.
Unfortunately, too many candidates walk into interviews hoping they’ll “wing it.” That’s a risky strategy. Interviews are opportunities, and opportunities deserve preparation.
If you’re short on time, here are six things you should always do before any interview:
• Read your resume at least thrice before the interview.
• Research the company, its business, and recent news.
• Prepare five thoughtful questions to ask.
• Bring a printed copy of your resume.
• Keep your answers concise, around two minutes per answer is usually enough.
• Use real examples and achievements rather than speaking in general terms.
Do Your Homework
One of the quickest ways to impress an interviewer is to demonstrate that you’ve invested time learning about the business.
Visit the company’s website. Read about its products or services. Check its LinkedIn page. Look for recent announcements or achievements.
This isn’t about memorising facts.
It’s about showing genuine interest and respect for the opportunity.
Remember: Interviews Go Both Ways
Many candidates think interviews are simply about answering questions.
They’re not.
You’re also interviewing the company.
You’re deciding whether the culture, leadership, career opportunities, and expectations are right for you.
The best interviews feel like professional conversations, rather than interrogations.
Know Your Own Resume
This sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people struggle to explain what’s written on their own CV.
Every achievement, promotion, project, and career move is fair game.
Be prepared to explain:
• Why you changed jobs.
• What value you created.
• Challenges you faced.
• Results you delivered.
• What you’re most proud of.
Tell stories.
Anyone can say they’re a great leader.
A great candidate explains how they led a team through a difficult situation and what happened afterwards.
Ask Great Questions
At the end of almost every interview you’ll hear:
“Do you have any questions?“
Never answer with “No.”
Good questions demonstrate curiosity, preparation, and commercial thinking.
Some of my favourites are:
• What does success look like during the first 90 to 100 days?
• What characteristics do your top performers have in common?
• How would you describe the company culture?
• What leadership style does the hiring manager have?
• What are the biggest priorities for the person joining this role?
Avoid discussing salary and benefits during an initial interview unless the interviewer raises the topic first.
The Little Things Matter
Small details often leave lasting impressions.
• Arrive 5–10 minutes early.
• Plan your journey in advance.
• Turn your phone onto silent.
• Bring identification if required.
• Be polite to everyone you meet, from security to reception.
Remember, first impressions begin long before the interview starts.
Confidence Comes From Preparation
The candidates who appear relaxed aren’t usually lucky.
They’re prepared.
Preparation helps you organise your thoughts, communicate your achievements clearly, and answer questions with confidence instead of panic.
It won’t create experience you don’t have.
But it will help you present the experience you do have in the best possible way.
The next time you have an interview, don’t simply hope for the best.
Prepare for it.
You might be surprised how much difference an hour of preparation can make.
Good luck with your next interview.