Do you have an important job interview coming up and don't want to leave your fate to chance? No matter how experienced or prepared you feel, every interview presents a new challenge.
But don't worry—with the right strategies, you can significantly increase your chances of success. In this post, you'll receive valuable tips and proven approaches that will make you shine before, during, and after the interview.
Don’t have time to read the whole article? No problem!
Simply download our compact checklist with the most important tips for before, during, and after the interview. With this, you’ll be perfectly prepared for the job interview.
Before the Interview
Preparation for the interview starts long before you enter the room. Thorough research about the company and its culture provides you with the necessary information to ask targeted questions and respond convincingly to questions from the interviewer.
Consider what particularly qualifies you for this position and how you can enrich the company. Here are our top tips for preparing for the interview:
Inform yourself about the company, its products or services, and recent press reports
Consider your reasons and motivation for wanting this job at this company
Ask your Day One contact person for information about the company and the vacancy
Arrive on time, if possible 5-10 minutes early, to gather yourself
Prepare a few questions for your interviewer
Check public transport connections or plan for possible traffic if you are driving
During the Interview
It's important to stay calm and focused during the interview. Listen attentively and answer questions precisely. An open body posture and eye contact can also make a positive impression, as can the ability to ask questions yourself. This shows your interest and commitment to the position.
Here we have briefly summarized the most important points:
Dress appropriately for the industry
Listen attentively to the interviewer
Answer all questions concisely
Do not hesitate to ask questions yourself
Make sure you address your counterpart by the correct name
Be authentic and true to yourself
Thank the interviewer for their time
Ask what happens next and within what time frames
After the Interview
Your task does not end with leaving the interview room. Sending a thank-you email reinforces the positive impression you made and shows your appreciation for the interviewer's time.
Also, keep in contact with your Day One representative to receive updates and give feedback. Our four most important tips after the interview:
Send a thank-you email to all individuals involved in the interview and reaffirm your interest
Remain reachable for feedback from the company or your consultant
If you have not received feedback within a week, follow up with your Day One contact person
Give your Day One contact person feedback on how the interview went
Frequently Asked Questions in Interviews
The following questions are classics in job interviews, and your answers can often decide your suitability for the position. Use them as an opportunity to express your personality, your professional skills, and your motivation:
Please walk us through your resume.
Use this opportunity to summarize the key stages of your career and emphasize how they have prepared you for the position you are applying for.
How would a teammate describe you?
This question aims to learn more about your work behavior and interpersonal skills. Be honest and authentic.
Tell us about a challenge and how you resolved it.
Here you can demonstrate how you act under pressure and solve problems creatively and effectively.
How did you hear about us? What have you heard about us?
This is often used to check how interested and informed you really are. Show that you have researched the company and have a clear idea of why you want to work there.
What are your strengths? What are your weaknesses?
Answer this question confidently, yet self-critically. Choose weaknesses that you are actively improving, and link your strengths to the requirements of the position.
Tell us about your interests or hobbies.
This question gives you the opportunity to show a bit of personality and give the interviewer an impression of who you are outside of work.
Now you're well-prepared to impress at your next job interview! Don’t forget to download our checklist with the most important tips so you can quickly access the best advice at any time. Good luck!