How to Prepare for a Job Interview (and Answer Any Question)

Interviews feel stressful because they're unpredictable. Good preparation removes most of that stress and helps you show your best self.

Research the company

• Read their website, especially the About and News pages.
• Understand what they sell or do, and who their customers are.
• Re-read the job description and note the main skills they want.

Use the STAR method

For questions like "Tell me about a time when...", structure your answer with STAR:

1. Situation: set the scene briefly.
2. Task: explain what you needed to do.
3. Action: describe what you did.
4. Result: share the outcome, with numbers if possible.

Practise common questions

• Tell me about yourself.
• Why do you want this job?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses?
• Where do you see yourself in a few years?
• Why are you leaving your current role?

Practise out loud, ideally with a friend. Aim for clear answers of about one to two minutes.

Prepare your own questions

Always have two or three questions ready, such as: "What does success look like in this role after six months?" or "What do you enjoy most about working here?"

On the day

• Plan your route or test your video call setup in advance.
• Arrive or log in a few minutes early.
• Dress appropriately for the company.
• Listen carefully and take a moment to think before answering.

After the interview

Send a short thank-you email within a day, mentioning something you discussed. It's a simple way to leave a positive final impression.