How To Prepare For Your Job Interview

My palms get sweaty even thinking about job interviews. My fever dreams are hearing "what are your weaknesses?" on repeat. My nightmare is accidentally throwing an 'F-bomb in an answer... 

Although I still don't love interviews, I've grown accustomed to them. I've done all sorts of them now - from interviews for casual roles in hospitality and retail, to freelance positions in radio, film, and writing all the way down to full-time roles.

It's safe to say that I've done a lot of interviews in my time, most of which landed me a job. Wanna know how? I prepared myself for the interview. So here's how to do just that. 

Get ready to yarn about yourself

Your resume can only say so much in a page or two, so get ready to talk about yourself. Your previous work experience, your school and your hobbies. This is where the interviewer is looking for your true colours so just be yourself. Well, a more formal version of yourself (again, no f-bombs). 

Try to keep answers reasonably short. I have a habit of talking and talking and talking when I'm nervous - so be aware of that! 

@carlieallisonspen Last minute job interview prep #CareerAdvice #edutok #jobinterview #careertiktok #corporate #jobadvice #corporate ♬ original sound - Strive for Success

Get ready for questions like...

@erinmcgoff there are tons of different ways to answer, but I love this formula 👌 #careertiktok #tiktoktaughtme #jobinterview #interviewtips ♬ Steven Universe - L.Dre

Why do you want to work for us? 

If you're interviewing for an ice-cream shop, don't just say "I love ice-cream". 🍦Expand a little. 

Talk about wanting to utilise certain skills. Talk about wanting new work experience. Talk about always admiring the company virtues and initiatives. Just dig a little deeper.

Why are you leaving your last job?

Is your cup half-full or half-empty? That's what they wanna know, so it's best to talk highly and appreciatively about your past job.

Maybe you could bring up how you want to gain a different type of experience. Maybe this role is more connected to your career dreams. Maybe you'd also like a role that has more convenient hours or is closer to you. Whatever it is, stay positive. 

What are your strong points?

Think of three or four good points that could benefit the workplace. These strong points could be "I'm a problem solver so I'm good at working out issues with customers", or "I'm eager to learn and love upskilling".
 
What are your weaknesses? 

If you answer with “I just work way too hard, all the time”, or “I’m almost too good looking”, don’t expect to get a call back.

You could try to find something that appears negative and flip it into a positive. If you wanna stand out, try stating an actual weakness of yours, and what steps you’re taking to try and improve on yourself. Your new boss will froth.

What was a time that you had to overcome conflict? 

Interviewers LOVE this question. Have a scenario ready from a time where, say, there was a dispute with a customer and how you helped reach a middle ground - making both parties happy. 

Learn about the company

All it takes is quick google research. Suss out how the company started and where they're heading in the future. 

I once went to a random radio interview without researching the company - I'd never even heard of their station as I was new to the city. They asked "what's your favourite segment on the show" and my heart just dropped. From that day on, I vowed to actually look into wherever I'm interviewing for because that situation was cringe 🥵.

@erinmcgoff more practice = less nerves = more job offers 😁 #jobinterview #careertiktok #interviewtips #tiktoktaughtme #fyp ♬ Wii Shop Channel - McTweet

Have a question ready to ask them

At the end of the interview, they'll always ask "any questions?". If you take initiative to actually ask one, bonus points for you! My personal fave is asking them if they enjoy their job at the company and why.

@erinmcgoff Reply to @mtorr___ remember, you’re interviewing them, too! Are they a good fit for you? 🤔#jobinterview #careertiktok #interviewtips #fyp ♬ Aesthetic Girl - Yusei

And now, go forth my young grasshoppers and get that job!