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Writer's pictureSteve Gill, PHR

What Great Interviewees Know About Preparing for Job Interview Questions & Answers

Knowing the best tips and tricks for interviewing is essential as the job market becomes increasingly competitive and employers become more stringent in their hiring process. No matter what job you’re applying for, a good discussion is necessary.

The job market is more competitive than ever. Employers have higher expectations of their applicants, and landing a job has become increasingly difficult. As such, job-seekers must be prepared for every step of the process, from writing resumes and cover letters to interviewing. To help you succeed in your job-seeking endeavors, we’ve compiled the best tips and tricks for acing interviews.

What to Do Before the Interview

Before an interview, you should take critical steps to ensure you’re fully prepared. First and foremost, make sure you know the job description like the back of your hand. This will help you answer interview questions and show the interviewer that you’re interested in the job and have taken the time to research and understand the role. Secondly, explore the company and its culture. Learning about the company’s history, mission, and values will help you know the company and the interviewer’s expectations.


Thirdly, practice your answers to common interview questions out loud, as it will help with articulation. This will give you confidence going into the interview and help you come across as more prepared and professional. Finally, prepare your questions to ask the interviewer. This will show your interest in the job and allow you to learn more about the role.


What to Expect During the Interview

When you enter the interview, you should first greet the first person you see and then the interviewer with a firm handshake and a smile. This will show your respect for the company and the interviewer and your confidence in yourself.


During the interview, it’s crucial to maintain good eye contact and be conscious of your body language. Additionally, it’s essential to be honest and open in your answers. Interviewers can sense when you’re not being truthful, so being frank is vital. Finally, thank the interviewer for their time before you leave.

Tips for Interview Questions & Answers

When answering interview questions, it’s essential to be as clear and concise as possible. Don’t ramble on and give too much information; answer the question directly and provide relevant examples. Also, highlighting your job qualifications is essential, but don’t be too boastful. Everything should be in moderation. Lastly, answer the question directly and avoid giving vague answers.

Sample Job Interview Questions & Answers

To help you prepare for your interview, here are some sample job interview questions and answers:

Q: “Tell me about yourself.” (Keep the answer work related😜) A: “I’m a recent college graduate with a degree in Business Administration. I’m a hardworking and reliable individual passionate about working with people. I believe I have the skills and qualifications to be successful in this role.” Q: “What do you know about this company?” A: “I know that this company has been in business for over 20 years and is a leading provider of optometric care. I also know that the company is committed to providing excellent customer service and has a strong reputation in the industry.” Q: “What are your greatest strengths?” A: “My greatest strengths are my problem-solving skills, ability to work with a team, and attention to detail. I’m also highly organized and can manage multiple tasks simultaneously.”

Interview Etiquette

When it comes to interviews, you should follow specific etiquette rules. First and foremost, make sure to be on time. This will show the interviewer that you’re responsible and respect their time. Secondly, leave your cell phone in your pocket or purse and avoid checking it during the interview. Additionally, dress appropriately and make sure your clothes are clean and wrinkle-free. Finally, be courteous to the interviewer.

Different Types of Job Interviews and How to Prepare for Them

There are various types of job interviews, including one-on-one, group, phone, and video interviews. It’s essential to be prepared for every kind of interview so you can make the best impression. For one-on-one interviews, it’s important to dress professionally, make eye contact, and be clear and concise in your answers. For group interviews, being confident, speaking up, and being aware of your body language is essential. For phone interviews, it’s important to speak clearly and be prepared to answer questions. For video interviews, it’s important to dress professionally, maintain good eye contact, and ensure your video’s background is clean and professional.

What to Do After the Interview

After the interview, it’s essential to follow up with the interviewer. This can be done by sending a thank-you email or a handwritten letter. Additionally, follow up even if you don’t get the job. This will show the interviewer that you’re still interested in the position and help you stand out from other applicants.

Common Job Interview Mistakes

When it comes to job interviews, there are some common mistakes that you should avoid. First and foremost, don’t be late. This will show the interviewer that you’re not reliable or responsible. Secondly, don’t be too casual. Make sure to dress appropriately and use professional language. Thirdly, don’t be negative or talk negatively about your previous employer. Finally, don’t answer questions with one-word answers. Make sure to provide detail and be clear and concise in your answers.

You Got This!

The job market is highly competitive, and interviewing is essential for job-seekers. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to success. Make sure to research the job and company, practice your answers to common interview questions, prepare your questions to ask the interviewer, and follow up after the interview. Additionally, be on time, dress appropriately, be honest and open in your answers, and avoid common job interview mistakes. With these tips, you’ll be sure to succeed in job interviews.

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