How to Prepare for a Job Interview: A Beginner's Guide

Research like you already work there

Read the company's website, recent news and the job description again. Be ready to explain, in one sentence, what the company does and why this role exists.

Prepare the big five answers

'Tell me about yourself', 'Why this job?', 'Your biggest strength', 'A challenge you handled', and 'Where do you see yourself?' Write bullet points — not scripts — for each, with a real example for the challenge question using Situation, Task, Action, Result.

• Keep 'about yourself' under 90 seconds
• Every claim gets a short real example
• Practise out loud, not in your head

Plan the last ten minutes

Ask about the team, the first 90 days, and how success is measured. And handle logistics early: test your camera and link the day before any video interview.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear?

One level smarter than the team's everyday dress. When unsure, neat and plain beats fashionable.

Is it OK to ask about salary?

Let them raise it first where possible, and research a fair range beforehand so you can answer calmly when they do.