How to Prepare for a Job Interview

According to a career advice article from The New York Times, one of the most effective ways to boost your chances in a job interview is to prepare for common questions and present yourself with clarity and confidence. The article emphasizes that interviewers are not just evaluating your skills—they’re also looking for signs of motivation, reliability, and long-term potential in the role.

Job interviews can be nerve-wracking, but with the right prep, you’ll walk in feeling confident and ready. Here’s how to do it:

1. Know the Company
   Do your homework. Learn what they do, their values, recent news, and who their competitors are. It shows you care and helps you ask smart questions.

2. Understand the Role
   Read the job description carefully. Think about how your experience matches what they’re looking for. Prepare examples that show you’ve got the skills.

3. Practice Common Questions
   “Tell me about yourself.” “Why do you want this job?” “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” Practice answering these out loud—seriously, it helps.

4. Prepare Questions to Ask Them
   Interviews go both ways. Ask about the team, the company culture, or what success looks like in the role. It shows you’re engaged.

5. Dress the Part
   Whether it’s in-person or virtual, dress professionally. First impressions matter.

6. Be Yourself (But the Best Version)
   Be honest, be positive, and show enthusiasm. You don’t need to be perfect—just prepared and authentic.

7. Follow Up
   Send a thank-you email after the interview. It’s polite, and it keeps you on their radar.