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16 Resumé Tips That Will Get You an Interview

8 Min Read | Apr 24, 2024

Believe it or not, creating a solid resumé is just as important as prepping for and nailing your job interview. After all, your resumé is your chance to make a strong first impression on the recruiter! But before you get too freaked out, know this: Building the perfect resumé is actually a lot simpler than it sounds. And once you’ve read these 16 tips, you’ll be ready to move forward into the job search with confidence.

1. Keep it one page.

Do you know how much time a recruiter spends looking at your resumé on the first go-around? About 7.4 seconds. 1 Whoa . So, if they have to flip or scroll through pages of your accomplishments and past experience, this party could be over before it even starts. Keeping things simple, relevant and to the point will earn you some respect right off the bat. If things go well here, you’ll have the opportunity to answer the most common interview questions in person !

2. Link to online portfolios.

Some job applications may ask you to send samples of your work, but even if they don’t, there’s still a classy way to show off what you do best. Try including a link to an online portfolio or professional website if you have one—that way you’ll be able to showcase more of your work without taking up space on your actual resumé.

3. Make sure your contact info is professional.

Nobody wants to send an email to sk8rboi2002. Don’t use your college email address either. Just a normal, boring email account with your first and last name will get the job done. And don’t forget to include your phone number (but make sure your voicemail greeting isn’t anything funny or clever).

4. Include relevant social media accounts.

I know I’m talking to adults here, but I just have to say it: Double-check all your social media accounts to make sure they’re recruiter-friendly, especially if you include any of your social media handles on your resumé. But even those should only be on your resumé if they’re relevant to the position you’re applying for. For most jobs, your LinkedIn account is the only one you need to include.

5. Skip the bio.

It used to be trendy to put a paragraph about yourself at the top of your resumé , but let that trend die—especially if you’re also submitting a cover letter with your application. You don’t need to put an elevator pitch or your life story under your name at the top of your resumé. Remember, we’re keeping this relevant and to the point!

6. Evaluate whether you need a photo.

When it comes to photos, be strategic about whether or not you put your picture on your resumé. It could make sense to include one if you’re applying for a modeling or acting job, but accounting? Yeah, they probably don’t care what you look like or if your resumé is fun .

And even though recruiters aim to stay as unbiased as possible during the interview process, a less-than-great-quality photo could subconsciously affect their impression of you, even if they don’t mean for it to. So, if you do decide to go with the photo option, make sure it’s not pixelated, blurry or too small to see.

7. Keep the job listing in mind.

Recruiters post job descriptions for a reason—they want to be clear and specific about what qualities and skills they’re looking for. Look for those buzzwords and find ways to work them into your resumé (doing that will help you beat the applicant tracking system ). Be honest about your skill set and don’t get discouraged if you don’t have every skill on the list. It could actually be a good thing to be slightly underqualified. You want to be challenged in your new role! And many employers are willing to work with you and train you when you first step into the job—as long as you have a growth mindset.

8. Tweak your resumé for each role.

I know it might sound like a lot of work to tailor your resumé to each job application, but that effort will really pay off. Recruiters will know that you took the time to read all the info and are seriously interested in their company, not just sending a cookie-cutter application to hundreds of different jobs.

9. Tell the truth.

Okay, this one is a no-brainer application and interview tip in general, but enough people have lied or “stretched the truth” on their job applications to make it worth mentioning. Don’t say you know someone at the company if you’ve never talked to them before. Don’t say you know how to use Excel and PowerPoint if you really don’t. It’ll just make you look shady when the recruiter asks you for more specifics (or worse, if you do get hired, and then they have to show you how to make a spreadsheet).

10. Make it easy to read.

When building your resumé, put yourself in the recruiter’s position. What would you be looking for? You’d probably want something that’s clear and easy on the eyes, right? Here are some things that can help with that:

Use 10- to 12-point font.
Use a professional font, like Helvetica, Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman, etc. (no Comic Sans unless you’re going for the community-center-bulletin-board look).
Keep your headers simple and use concise bullet points below them.
Don’t use too many variations in font size, color and style (bold, italics or underline).

Sure, there’s room for some creativity, but nothing too crazy—think streamlined and classic. Recruiters will love you for it, because you’ll make their job easier! For extra help with formatting, check out my free Resumé Guide .

11. Use active words.

Recruiters are used to seeing words like managed or led on resumés, and there’s nothing wrong with those words. But what if the language was just a little more engaging? Here are a few active, interesting and not-too-fancy words to use where it makes sense:

Coordinated

You get the picture. Again, you want to make sure the words you use to describe what you did are truthful, but spend some time with a thesaurus to see if there’s a more descriptive way to say it.

You deserve to win at work. Our new book and assessment will show you how.

12. Explain why you’re a good fit.

Remember when we talked about tailoring your resumé to each job you’re applying for? Your resumé should include a few words about why you want to work for this company. It’s one thing to know that someone wants to work for you, but if you see that they genuinely care about the company and its mission, wouldn’t you be way more likely to want them on your team? I know I would.

13. Give concrete examples.

When talking about your past experience, it’s a good idea to quantify it by using some kind of number or measure of success. That will give recruiters a clear picture of the kinds of results you deliver! Here are a few examples:

Increased sales by 200% in one year.
Structured, wrote and posted four to five articles per week.
Served 20 to 30 clients per week and generated $10,000 in revenue per month.

Even if your past experience wasn’t in sales or you don’t know how much revenue you brought in, you can find some way to explain the work you did in terms of numbers.

14. Proofread your resumé.

Spelling and grammar are your friends! Even just one case of using the wrong their can sway a recruiter’s opinion, so read over everything more than once. Proofreading is like making sure you don’t have a mustard stain on your interview outfit before you walk inside!

Ask a few other people you trust to give you some feedback too—not just on the tiny details, but on the clarity and appearance of your resumé as a whole.

15. Put your education last.

Ken, are you crazy? Education is the first thing you’re supposed to put on your resumé. Wrong! Always put the most important and relevant information first—and in most cases, that’s who you know at the company and why you want to be there, not your education. Most recruiters don’t care where you went to school, as long as you’re educated in your field.

And don’t forget to include any other training or educational courses that are relevant to the job you want (especially if you don't have lots of work experience )!

16. Don’t be afraid to use a template.

There’s no shame in using a template to help you build your resumé—in fact, it will make your life a whole lot easier. I’ve included six different templates in my Ken Coleman Resumé Templates that will help you get your resumé where it needs to be in no time.

These templates are something my team and I put together to give you more in-depth tips on creating the perfect resumé. You’ll also get instructions for using the templates, plus a list of do’s and don’ts when it comes to applying for jobs. I hope this helps you through the job search process. Happy resumé building!

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About the author

Ken Coleman

Ken Coleman is a career expert and author of the national bestselling book From Paycheck to Purpose and the #1 national bestseller The Proximity Principle. He hosts The Ken Coleman Show, a nationally syndicated, caller-driven show that helps listeners discover what they were born to do. Ken makes regular appearances on Fox News, and he co-hosts The Ramsey Show, the second-largest talk show in the nation. Through his speaking, broadcasting and syndicated columns, Ken gives people expert career advice, providing strategic steps to grow professionally, land their dream job, and get promoted. Learn More.

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Prepare for your Job Interview Using Your Resume

You have spent time writing a winning resume and applying for jobs, now it is time for the final stage, the job interview. They can be nerve-wracking and there are many traps that candidates fall into during the process.

However, correctly preparing for a job interview can significantly improve your chances of success. If you can anticipate which questions will be asked, you will not be caught out by surprise questions and be able to give considered answers.

It is vital to understand the importance of the resume in the interview . Knowing how to prepare for your first job interview by using the job description and your professional resume , can improve your performance in the interview.

By this stage, you should have already produced an attractive, professional-looking resume . If not, use a resume builder to make sure it is up-to-scratch.

Research the company

Doing some homework on the company is essential . Go onto the company’s website and find out as much as you possibly can about them before the first interview. If you appear not to know anything about the company it will seem like you’re uninterested in the job.

Definitely don’t rely just on the company website research though. Look them up online – read articles about them or written by them, watch YouTube videos about the company made by third parties or videos of the company’s executives. Check out their social media profiles – what message are they trying to put forth? What are they posting and tweeting? Can your experience be relevant to one of their current initiatives?

Researching the company ahead of time will help you target your answers to fit what the employer is looking for, it will also help you to ask some insightful questions in the latter stages of the interview.

Prepare answers for resume based interview questions

First of all, make sure you know your resume backwards . Familiarize yourself with every detail including job titles, dates, and responsibilities. If you get these details mixed up in the interview it will give the wrong impression.

Secondly, the trick is to imagine you are the employer looking at your resume. Often employers follow the resume in a job interview or prepare the interview using the resume.

What questions would you ask? Have you got any unexplained gaps on your resume? By anticipating the job interview questions it will be easy to prepare answers.

Thinking of a good answer to an interview question is easy when you have time and are not under pressure. Try to anticipate as many of the questions as possible to avoid finishing the interview wishing you had answered a question differently.This is a key part of how to prepare for a job interview.

Analyze the job and match your skills

Read carefully through the job posting and identify the required skills, attributes, and work experience . Use the keywords in the text to help you. Then make a comprehensive list of all the qualities required by the employer.

Using your resume, think about your strengths and how they match those wanted by the company. Think of specific, tangible examples when you have demonstrated skills and abilities and prepare yourself to talk about them . Make sure you use STAR format when preparing these examples.

The interviewer will ask you to give examples of when you have shown certain qualities. This preparation technique of using your resume to prepare for a job interview will help you to answer job-specific interview questions.

Practice the job interview using your resume

The main thing you want to avoid is being caught out and having to rack your brains for job interview answers. Review typical job interview questions and spend time practicing answering them. Follow our top job interview tips to make sure you are fully prepared.

Think about how to answer job interview questions about your resume and focus on your strengths. It is important to practice actually speaking your answers too. This will help you to give more concise answers in the actual interview and it will give you confidence.

Ask someone you know to give you a mock job interview using your resume and the list of questions you have prepared. If it is a phone interview, do it over the phone or if it is a video interview, do it via Zoom or Google Hangouts to practice.

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35+ Job Interview Questions and Answers for 2024 [Full List]

The time has come!

After creating a killer resume and cover letter and passing the first round, it is time to face the final challenge:

Your job interview .

And that scares even to the best of us .

Being judged and evaluated by people who have your future in their hands is more anxiety-inducing than meeting the in-laws.

You’ve heard the interviewers and hiring managers say there are no right or wrong answers to calm you down before an interview.

But here’s the thing:

They are almost always looking for a specific way of answering .

Which brings us to this guide. We’re going to cover the most common interview questions and answers, turning you into a bona fide interview expert by the time you’re done reading.

So, let’s get started!

To make this guide as practical as possible, we covered just about every interview question out there.

Don’t let that put you off, though. You don’t have to read the whole thing end-to-end. To get the most out of the guide, we’d recommend:

Going through all the common interview questions
Checking out the situational interview questions section and learning how to answer questions that are relevant for you
Learning what’s the idea behind behavioral interview questions, so you’re prepared to answer whatever the HR manager shoots at you

Most Common Job Interview Questions:

Tell me something about yourself .
How did you hear about this position?
Why do you want to work here?
Why did you decide to apply for this position?
What is your greatest strength?
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
What do you know about this company/organization?
Why should we hire you?
What is your greatest accomplishment?
What are your salary requirements?
Do you have any questions for us?
What are you looking for from a new position?
Are you considering other positions in other companies?
What is the professional achievement you’re most proud of?
What kind of working environment do you work best in?
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Situational Job Interview Questions:

Why haven’t you gotten your Bachelor’s Degree/Master’s Degree/Ph.D.?
Why have you switched jobs so many times?
Why did you change your career path?
Why did you decide to leave your previous/current job?
Why is there a gap in your work experience?
Why were you fired?
How do you feel about working weekends or late hours?
How would your boss describe you?
Do you have any serious medical conditions?
What would your first 30, 60, or 90 days look like in this role?
Are you a team player?
Are you a risk-taker?
How do you deal with pressure or stressful situation?
Do you think there is a difference between hard work and smart work?
How quickly do you adapt to new technology?
Do you have any interests outside of work?
What do you think our company/organization could do better?

Behavioral Questions in a Job Interview:

Give an example of how you have handled a challenge in the workplace before.
Give an example of when you performed well under pressure.
Give an example of when you showed leadership qualities.

How to Answer 14 Most Common Job Interview Questions [+ Sample Answers]

These questions are the ones you’re bound to hear at just about any job interview - whether you’re an intern or a senior professional with a decade of work experience.

All of these questions are used to learn more about you, both as a person and a professional.

You might have heard the popular idea that there’s no right or wrong answers for job interview questions .

Well, while that might be true, there ARE a set of rules you need to follow when answering these questions.

If you understand what, exactly, the interviewer is looking for with each question, you’ll be able to give the right answer (and rock that interview!)

In this section, we’re going to go through 14 of the most common job interview questions and answers. We’re going to explain what the HR manager wants to see in you, as well as give you sample answers you could use.

So, let’s get started!

1) Tell me something about yourself.

How hard can it be to talk about yourself? We do it on a daily basis without much thought to it.

However, recruitment managers are not looking for your whole life story, your third-grade achievements, or what you had for dinner last night. Instead, they are looking for a pitch .

This is usually the first question asked in an interview, so it acts as your introduction. Make sure your answer is relevant to the position you are applying for. What you should be aiming for here is to present yourself as the ideal candidate for the job.

A good rule of thumb is to structure your talking points as follows:

Briefly introduce yourself: What’s your name? How long have you been working as [profession]?
What do you love about your job?
What are your top 2-3 achievements that are relevant to the job you’re applying for?

Now, let’s go through some examples:

Sample Answer 1:

Hey! So, my name is John Doe and I’ve worked as a business analyst for 5+ years in Company X and Company Y.

I have some background in data analysis, having studied Information Systems at [Made-Up] University.

Throughout my career, I’ve done some pretty impressive stuff (if I do say so myself, haha).

For example, at Company X, I led a project for migrating all operations data to a new data warehousing system to cut down on costs. The new solution was a much better fit for our business, which eventually led to savings of up to $200,000 annually.

Sample Answer 2:

I am Jane Doe, a recent college graduate from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

I have just graduated with honors in Biochemistry. I know my way around a lab and have had multiple opportunities to put my knowledge into practice as a chemistry research assistant.

The lab felt like home, which is why I’d love to work as a lab assistant. I am passionate, hard-working, and extremely responsible. I am also looking forward to putting to practice all the things I learned during my time at university.

2) How did you hear about this position?

Although at first glance this might seem like a straightforward question, you should grab any opportunity you can to show your interest in the company.

Even if you haven’t been continuously refreshing the company’s website for job listings, make it seem like you have (in a professional way, of course). Show excitement and curiosity.

If someone inside the company told you about the position or recommended that you apply, definitely make sure to mention that.

You’ll have a much better chance at getting hired if someone credible can vouch for your skills.

So, mention his/her name and his/her position inside the company and give their reasoning for inviting or recommending you to apply for the position. Tell the hiring managers what excites you about the job opportunity or what exactly caught your eye.

Sample answer 1:

“I’ve known about [MadeUpTechnologies] for a long time - I’m a big fan of your products. I even own one of your latest phone models!

I love the company’s passion for creating super intuitive, beautiful hardware, and I would love to be a part of it.

So, when I saw your job ad at [RandomJobBoardWebsite], even though I wasn’t actively looking for a job at the time, I couldn’t help but apply!”

Sample answer 2:

“I heard from Jim Doe, my old colleague and college friend, that [Company X] was looking for a new sales director. He encouraged me to apply, saying that my experience managing a sales team at [Some Software Company] would be helpful for [Company X].

I’ve heard a lot about [Company X] from Jim, and I’m a big fan of the way you do things there. I’ve always wanted to work for a company with a flat organizational structure.”

3) Why did you decide to apply for this position?

Through this question, the interviewers want to assess how passionate you are for the position. And no, the answer isn’t:

“Well, I’m very passionate about not starving to death.”

“Well, I needed the money, and you guys tend to pay a lot.”

What the interviewer is looking for here is to see how passionate you are about the job or the company. After all, job performance is directly linked to job satisfaction. The happier you are about your position at the company, the more productive you’ll be.

And here’s the kicker - your passion will be very evident during the interview.

When you’re talking to a person that’s passionate about something, you can pretty much feel them glow as they talk. And if you’re an HR manager who’s interviewed hundreds of people, this is a very good sign to hire the candidate.

So, use this knowledge to your advantage.

When asked this question, your answer should include 2 things:

What motivated you to apply for this position, specifically .
Why this company? Have you heard of them before?

I’m very passionate about sustainability and renewable energy . In fact, I minored in Environmental Science at [XYZ University].

I’ve always wanted to put my engineering degree to a good cause - and the position as a Sustainability Coordinator at [Company XYZ] is just the right thing.

I’ve been following your company for the past few years, and I love how you’re changing the renewable energy landscape in America.

Keep in mind, though, that if you don’t know much about the company or the position - that’s OK too. Just be honest and show your passion for the job. However, it’s always better to do your homework before going to an interview..

I’ve always wanted to get into marketing. Having done promotional jobs here and there, I never had an opportunity to do something more serious.

I do believe, though, that I have just the right skills to get started: copywriting, basic photoshop, and of course, lots of creativity.

So, I thought that an internship at [Company X] would be an awesome start to my career in marketing.

Want to find more samples answers to this question? Check out our article on 10+ best answers to “ Why do you want to work here? ”

4) What are your biggest strengths?

There are two answers you could go for here: what your actual strengths are, and what you think the hiring manager or HR representative wants to hear. We would most certainly suggest you go with the first answer.

For this question, you would want to narrow your answer down to at most three strengths . Pick 1 or 2 skills that would help you really excel at the job, and 1 or 2 personal (more or less unrelated) skills.

Not sure which ones are your top strengths? Check out the table below to learn which one’s perfect for your field:

After picking your strengths, back it up with a situation or story that shows how you have used it to benefit you on the job.

After all, words are just that - words. The HR can’t know whether your “natural leadership” is an actual strength, or just means that you were super active in your high school class.

As you probably already know, this is one of the most common interview questions out there, so make sure you’re prepared for it before facing the HR manager!

My biggest strength is that I’m good at picking up new skills. I’ve worked a variety of different odd jobs - things like working as a waiter, house-keeper, cook, and a lot more (as you’ve probably seen on my resume).

For most of those jobs, I ended up picking up all the needed skills within 1 or 2 weeks (with basically no previous experience).

So, I’m pretty sure while I don’t have any experience as a bartender, I have the right certification , and I believe I can get good at it within a week or two.

Possible answer 2:

My biggest strength is that I’m very efficient at working under pressure. No matter the crisis or stress, I can make the right decisions on-the-spot.

As an event manager at Company X, we were organizing an IT conference for a client. There were a ton of last-minute hiccups - some speakers canceled and the catering company said they’d be late for the lunch break. On top of that, we were understaffed because 2 of our volunteer organizers got sick and couldn’t show up.

At that point, things looked so bleak that we were considering canceling the event or postponing it. Instead, I took the initiative in my hands and sorted through the problems one by one.

5) What is your biggest weakness?

Ah, this is always a tricky one!

After all, you don’t want to mention your flaws during an interview, so it’s guaranteed to be a tough question.

The trick to answering this one is realizing that the interviewers don’t expect you to be perfect. Everyone has flaws, weaknesses, and things to improve on.

When asking this question, the HR manager is actually seeking to learn:

Whether you have the right skills for the job. If you’re applying for the position of a server in a busy restaurant, and you say your biggest weakness is performing under pressure, then you’re definitely not getting a callback.
If you’re self-aware and really know what your sticking points are.

And NO: fake humble-brag weaknesses don’t count as weaknesses. You can’t just say that your biggest weakness is that you work too hard, or that you’re a perfectionist.

The key here is to mention a weakness that’s real , but not something that would get in the way of you doing your job. You wouldn’t want to say you’re bad at math if you’re applying for an accountant position, would you

It’s also good practice to mention how you are working towards overcoming this weakness and realizing how it affects you negatively. If you can, just balance it with a positive side effect: treat it like two sides of the same coin.

My biggest weakness has always been my communication skills. I’ve been pretty shy and anxious as a kid. Over the years, however, I’ve been really working on the issue.

At this stage, I’m much better than I’ve ever been, but I’m still far from perfect.

This, however, won’t have any impact on my job as a programmer. Despite lacking communication skills, I’m very good at working in a team.

Well, as a recent graduate, I’d say my biggest weakness is the lack of real-life work experience.

While I’ve worked on a dozen software projects in the university, I don’t have the experience of working in a fully agile environment with an experienced team.

I am, however, willing to do my best and catch up as fast as I can.

Looking for more samples answers about your strengths and weaknesses ? Check out our full guide!

6) What do you know about this company/organization?

A quick search in the “About” page of the company/organization you are applying for should be enough, right? Well, yes and no.

Think of this as an open-ended question. There’s no real wrong answer here, other than:

I don’t know anything about this organization. In fact, how did I end up here? Can you guys call me a cab real quick?

However , the more you actually know about the company, the better your chances of getting hired.

Imagine 2 equally competent candidates:

One who doesn’t particularly care much about your company, and is only applying because they know you pay good salaries
Another who’s been following your company blog for ages, loves your product, and has several friends already working in the company

Which one would you pick? Exactly, the second one!

So, with this job interview question, you want to convince the recruiter that you’re the candidate #2.

Now, how do you do that? Well, a rule of thumb here is to do some Googling before the interview and learn the following about the company:

What does their product or service do?
What impact does the product / service have?
What’s the company culture like?
What are the latest news about the company? How are they performing?
...And pretty much whatever other type of info you can dig up.

I hadn’t heard about you until recently, actually. I found out about [Company X] through your job ad on RandomJobBoard.

After doing some brief research on you guys, I ended up falling in love with your software and your mission.

Now, I’ve worked with a ton of different project management software - Example Software 1, Example Software 2 - but none of them were as intuitive and as Example Software 3.

Well, I know that you’re one of the biggest investment banks in [town / state / country]. Company X pops up on news pretty often - I’ve read that you’ve invested in some of the hottest tech IPOs, and have several up-and-coming biotech companies in your portfolio.

I got particularly interested by your recent investment in [Startup X], I found that interesting because of [Y Reason].

7) Why should we hire you?

Ah, the ultimate humble-brag question.

Now, the real question is, how do you sell yourself without trying to look arrogant, desperate, or needy?

A good rule of thumb here is to stay away from the extremes. Think you’re a good fit for the job? Say that “you have the right experience.”

Whatever you do, don’t oversell yourself:

“I’m the best salesman you’ve ever met!”

Instead, make a general statement (I’m a great fit for the position because…) and talk about your experiences and achievements.

Here are 3 general points you can mention:

How you’re super passionate about working for the company (and why).
How your skills fit their requirements.
How you’re going to help the company solve their existing problems. Improve a metric, setup a process, etc.

Well, as a start, I have all the skills and work experience required for the job. I’ve worked as a Sales Manager for 5+ years, and over the past 2, I’ve closed several deals totalling in 6-figures.

Oh, and on top of that, I have experience working with tech companies, so I’ll be able to pick up all the product specifics much faster than the other candidates.

I have just the right skill-set to excel as an executive assistant. While I haven’t previously worked as a personal assistant, I pretty much fit the bill for the role.

I’m extremely organized, having managed several project teams in my university. I led the organization of Event #1 and Event #2. This involved continuous communication with 12+ companies, 30 speakers, and 15+ sponsors.

I’m very meticulous and organized, and I’m more than capable of helping the CEO get the most our of their free time.

Looking for more sample answers? Check out these 10+ answers to “ Why should we hire you? ”

8) What are your salary requirements?

This is always a tricky question. You don’t want to lowball yourself, but at the same time, you don’t want to be told “No” because you gave such an outrageous number.

When answering, keep these 3 things in mind:

What’s the average salary for someone of your skill-level?
How much does the company pay employees of your skill level? GlassDoor should be super helpful here.
Finally, how much are you getting paid in your current company? In most cases, you can probably negotiate a pay bump from what you’re currently getting.

The final number you tell them should incorporate all 3 of the points we just mentioned. Do you know for a fact that the company is doing well (and compensates employees accordingly)? You’d quote a higher salary.

Is your skill-level above average? This should be reflected in your salary.

As a rule of thumb, you can figure out 2 numbers: what’s the “good” scenario, and what’s the “best” scenario?

Answer the interviewer with your “best” pay, and worst case scenario, they’ll negotiate it down.

Or, you can also answer with a range, and chances are, they’ll pick the number somewhere in the middle.

My salary expectation is around $70,000 annually.

My salary requirement is in the $30,000 - $40,000 range annually.

9) Do you have any questions for us?

You’ll hear this question in every interview you will attend.

While there isn’t a right answer, there IS a wrong answer:

Nope, all good! Thanks, I’ll go show myself out.

Instead, with this question, you want to show your enthusiasm about the company. Imagine they’ve already hired you and you’re starting tomorrow - what would you like to know about them?

Keep in mind, though, that the questions shouldn’t be too easy (So, what does your company do?).

Other than showing the recruiter that you’re really interested in working for them, this is your opportunity to really find out more about the ins and outs of the place.

The answers you get from the interviewer could also be an indicator of whether you really want to work there or not .

So, what kind of questions can you ask? Here are some of the most essential ones:

What does a regular day in this company look like?
What’s the best thing about working for the company?
What’s the worst thing about working for the company?
What would you say are the biggest challenges a person in this position might face?
What are the most important skills and qualities one must have to succeed in this position?
What do you like best about working in this company?
What are the most pressing issues and projects that need to be addressed?
Do you have training programs available to employees?
What sort of budget is there for my department?
What kind of opportunities do you have for future development?
What are the performance expectations for someone in this position?
Do departments usually collaborate with one another?
Do you celebrate birthdays or retirements in the office?
Do employees usually hang out with each other outside of work?
Is there anything else I can help you with at this stage?
What is the next step in the hiring process?

For the complete list of all the questions you can ask the interviewer , check out our article!

10) What are you looking for in a new position?

The easiest way to answer this question would be to simply say that you’re looking for whatever the company is offering.

Look at it from the point of view of the potential employer. Would they hire someone if they answered this question with:

A good salary. And uhh, well, that’s about it!

This answer pretty much says that the moment they get a higher paying offer, they’re going to jump ship!

Instead, explain to the interviewer that this job at this company is the perfect fit for you. Mention what your short-term and long-term career goals are, and how this position ties to them.

I’m looking to further apply my machine learning skills that I developed during my 2+ years of work at [Startup X]. There, I used to do programmatic ads model design.

Now, I’m looking for an opportunity to work on a larger scale project that involves setting up programmatic ads for audiences of more than 10 million people.

I believe that worked with such a large-scale project will allow me to progress significantly faster in my career .

11) Are you considering other positions in other companies?

Here’s a tricky one: How much does the HR manager need to know here?

If you admit to having interviews with other companies, it might look like you’re not 100% dedicated to this one.

On the other hand, if you say you are not considering other positions, it might make you seem like you don’t have other options (and the company has the upper hand in salary negotiations).

The right way to go about here is to find common ground between the two answers.

The interviewer is probably asking because they want to know whether they have competition in hiring you. They also want to know if you are serious about the industry and are legitimately looking to be employed in this field of work.

If you do have other interviews lined up for other companies, express that you are keeping your options open but that you favor this job in comparison to the others.

Don’t have many other options? Stick to the same approach.

Whatever you do, don’t make it seem like you’re desperate or that you don’t have any other options.

I have had two interviews during the past week with companies in X and Y industries.

However, as I’m very passionate about both your industry and the work you have done during the past several years, I am more inclined toward working for you, if everything works out.

Not yet - I wasn’t really actively looking for a job until my friend, [name], recommended your company. I’m not looking for just any company - I’m interested in an interesting, engaging project such as yours.

12) What is the professional achievement you’re most proud of?

This is another version of the “Why should we hire you” question, but with a focus on one very specific achievement.

This one’s pretty straightforward, just mention your #1 professional achievement and you’re good to go.

As a given, the achievement has to be related to the job you’re applying for. Let’s say you’re applying for the position of Sales Manager :

[Incorrect Example]

“I’m very good at underwater basket-weaving, having woven 20+ baskets in the past year.”

[Correct Example]

“In my previous sales position, I managed to hit and exceed department KPIs by 50%+ for 6 months in a row”

Keep in mind, though, that you want to be very specific with your answer. To get this right, try using the STAR method . It goes something like this:

S: Situation - Set the scene and context.
T: Task - Describe what your challenge or responsibility was.
A: Action - List and dwell on all the actions you took towards addressing the challenge or responsibility.
R: Result - Explain what the outcomes were and how they fit with the overall goal of the project or company.

So, find a work-related achievement that showcases your contribution through your skills and experience to something that matters to the company.

Sample Answer 1:

My biggest achievement is the fact that I went from being an intern to managing company X’s entire marketing over 2 years.

As an intern, I basically had 0 instructions on what to do - it went like “hey, go learn social media advertising and get it going.” The founders didn’t exactly expect me to achieve much, and didn’t particularly care, as they were 100% focused on making the product work.

Instead of just complaining about a lack of direction, I started reading up on digital marketing - pretty much anything I could get my hands on. I learned how to do content marketing for example, from Neil Patel’s blog, and started putting everything into practice.

My first success was getting an article to go viral, generating over $5,000 revenue in a single day. While that’s not much for a software company, it felt like a lot for an intern.

After that, the founding team gave me a lot more trust, and assigned me a small marketing budget of $1,000 per month. With a lot more confidence in my abilities, I started experimenting with other strategies.

Then, over the next 2 years, I got promoted to Head of Marketing. After making a couple of hires, I managed to scale up our marketing efforts, growing the company from $2,000 to $30,000 monthly recurring revenue.

Sample Answer 2:

My greatest accomplishment so far is graduating from [University X] within 4 years, with a GPA of 3.9. My family was unable to support me financially, so I had to take care of all the university bills on my own.

Through hard work and dedication, I ended up graduating with almost no student loans. I managed this through a combination of:

Working part-time while studying
Doing seasonal full-time work during the summer
Maintaining a high CGPA and winning 2 scholarships over 4 years

13) What kind of work environment do you like best?

The aim of this question is to assess whether you’ll fit in the company’s working environment .

For example, some organizations are pretty structured and hierarchical, they require tight organization and have a well-planned day filled with rules and guidelines on how to do things.

If you’re the creative, think-out-of-the-box type who likes to break the rules and innovate, this is probably not going to cut it for you.

On the other hand, some companies are more laid back, with a lot less bureaucracy. “Go get us more sales” can actually be your main duty for the week if you’re working in an early stage startup.

If you’re the type who prefers to have strict to-dos and objectives, you probably won’t enjoy such a job.

So, the takeaway? Different people work best in different environments, and that’s okay.

Before you go to the interview, go through the company’s website and social media pages to get a sense of the general vibe and environment there.

Look at employee reviews on GlassDoor, or if you know someone already working there, ask them.

Depending on what you learn, answer accordingly.

I work best in smaller companies. I really dislike the corporate world - rules, guidelines, SOPs, and so on. I perform best when I have a certain level of freedom to do things. Want to find innovative solutions to problems you didn’t even know you had? I’m your guy.

Want someone to just blindly follow instructions and do what they’re told? Then we’d probably not be a good fit.

I love working in a youthful, energetic environment. You know, when you’re working on a common goal with a team of people who are as passionate as you are?

I like to think of my work as a second home, and my coworkers as family.

The last company I worked at had such an environment, and I excelled at the job.

I get that exact feeling about Company X, since the moment I walked in here for the interview. So, I’m pretty excited to get to know how you guys work!

14) Where do you see yourself in five years?

Sometimes the honest answer to this is “Hopefully not doing this.” especially with entry-level jobs.

Don’t think the hiring manager doesn’t know it, though. There are diplomatic ways to go around it.

In general, the motivation behind this question is for the interviewer to assess whether you are an ambitious person or not and whether you have realistic expectations for your career.

Make sure to avoid any of the cliche answers such as…

“In your seat!”

“As the big boss man”

Instead, think realistically about what the next step after this position is, and whether it is possible to reach it within the company you are applying at.

Within the next 5 years, I’d like to reach the position of a Senior Business Consultant. During the time period, I would like to accomplish the following:

Help 20+ organizations improve their business

Create a personal network of highly specialized professionals

Learn as much as I can about optimizing and improving clients’ businesses, as well as the essentials of operating a company

As a start, I want to learn if accounting is the right field for me. While I loved what I studied at the university, I want to see if working in the field feels the same.

If I do end up enjoying it, I’d like to specialize in either internal auditing or forensic accounting, as I really like to discover and solve problems. From what I’ve seen from your job ads, you guys are hiring for both, so I hope it’s going to be possible to move up from the position of an “intern” within the next few months!

Still not sure how to answer this one? We don’t blame you! Sometimes, you might not know what you’re doing next week, let alone next year! Check out our guide to answering the “ Where do you see yourself in 5 years? ” job interview question to find more possible answers.

How to Answer 18 Situational Job Interview Questions

You’re past the hard part.

You already know the most common job interview questions, and can probably deflect whatever the interviewer throws at you.

Depending on your specific situation, though, you might also need to learn how to answer these situational job interview questions...

1) Why haven’t you gotten your Master’s Degree/Ph.D.?

As a start, keep in mind that the interviewer isn’t judging you for your decision.

After all, if they were looking for someone with a better degree, they wouldn’t have invited you to an interview. The degree is not the dealbreaker here, but your answer to the question might be.

When asking this question, the interviewer is trying to see your reasoning for pursuing a career instead of getting another degree.

Heck, there’s a chance that if you give them the right answer, they’re even going to like you more than someone with 3 Phds!

So, simply explain why you didn’t think that another degree was the right thing for you at the time.

Don’t say you were lazy or didn’t feel like it, or that it’s a waste of money (even if that might be the case).

Instead, give compelling arguments, such as…

You wanted to see whether your field was the right one for you.
You didn’t have the financial resources at the time.
You wanted to get some practical work experience before committing to another degree.

At this stage of my life, I decided to pursue my career instead of further education. On the one hand, I want to make sure that Marketing is what I want to do with my life.

On the other hand, I believe that in my field, practical work experience is a lot more valuable than academic.

So far, my decision has paid off pretty well - I’ve already gotten a lot of experience doing online marketing for 3+ companies and delivering awesome results to boot.

I might eventually decide to pursue a masters, but at this point, I really don’t see the point in that.

Because it’s not in sync with my future career path. I believe that for software engineering, practical experience matters a lot more than having a degree.

I’ve already done an internship as a Junior Javascript Back-end Developer, and I believe that it gave me a lot more knowledge than my B.A. in Computer Science.

While I am eventually planning on getting a Masters, it’s going to be in a more theoretical field, such as Artificial Intelligence.

2) Why have you switched jobs so many times?

If you’ve switched jobs in a very short period of time (2 or more full-time positions in 1 year), the interviewer is bound to ask about it.

After all, job-hopping is one of the biggest red flags for HR managers.

True, you might have had a reasonable cause. Maybe the second company you got hired in just wasn’t a good culture fit for you.

Well, you’ll have to communicate that.

Companies tend to be skeptical because of the following reasons…

You might be a job hopper . Some people tend to switch jobs the moment they get a better salary offer.
You might be unqualified for the job and you quit because you couldn’t deliver.
You get bored easily and your solution to that is quitting.

So, your job here is to convince the interviewer that you don’t belong to any of those 3 categories.

You need to make them realize that you will not jump ship a few months after getting hired just because some recruiter PM’d you on LinkedIn with a better offer.

The best way to answer this question is to explain the reason you switched jobs. It could be one of the following:

The company culture wasn’t a good fit. This happens to the best of us - sometimes, the company just isn’t the right one.
The job description was misleading and you ended up doing something you either didn’t enjoy, or were not qualified for.
You learned that you simply didn’t enjoy the job, and are not willing to try out something different. While this isn’t the best potential answer, it’s honest and chances are, the HR manager will understand.

The last company I got hired in just wasn’t what I expected. The hiring manager didn’t communicate the role well enough.

As you already know, I’m a copywriter - I write sales copy. I work with:

-Landing pages

-Email marketing

-And sales pages

Around a week after I started work at the company, I realized that they were actually looking for something completely different. They asked me to write generic blog and social media posts, which is pretty far off from what I do.

This was really not what I expected, and not something I find interesting.

Well, as a start, my first job was in a big corporation straight out of university. While I did learn a lot there about Software Engineering practices, I also learned that a huge company with lots of regulations, rules, and the like isn’t for me.

So, at the end of my internship there, I decided to try working at a startup. I enjoyed that job a LOT more, as it gave me a lot of freedom when it comes to problem-solving. I wasn't told HOW to do it. Rather, I was given the option of coming up with my own solution.

Unfortunately, the company went belly-up after failing to raise money, putting me back on the job market.

And here we are - [Company X] is pretty much THE place I’ve always wanted to work in. I’ve heard a lot about your company culture, and thought I’d really belong there.

3) Why did you change your career path?

If you recently changed your career path , the interviewer is sure to ask about it.

Don’t worry - there’s nothing wrong with this.

A lot of people go through a career change . Some even do it several times in their lifetime!

As long as you’re good at what you do, no one cares if you were a pediatrician in one year, and a professional chef in another.

When asked this question, all you have to do is answer truthfully. Explain how your old job just wasn’t for you, and how the job you’re applying for is so much more interesting.

Sample Answer

I realized that being a doctor is not for me. While I did enjoy my 3 years in med school, the 6 year study period was too much.

I wanted to start making money and help out my family way before that, so I dropped out of university and started taking online courses in accounting.

At this point, I’m pretty good at it, having done 2 internships so far in [Company X] and [Company Y].

Sample Answer 2

Simply because I enjoy doing sales much more than accounting. After 5 years of working as an accountant for Firm X, I decided I wanted to try something new.

I asked my boss at the time to let me transition to the sales team, and I ended up liking it AND being pretty good at it.

4) Why did you decide to leave your previous/current job?

When asking this question, the interviewer wants to learn:

Did you have a good reason for leaving your last job? The HR manager doesn’t want someone that just jumps ship the moment things go bad.

“Oh, well, the company started bleeding cash and was on its way to bankruptcy.”

“I felt like it was time - I got to a point where everything I was doing felt monotonous. I learned as much as I could at this position while delivering amazing results. It was, however, time to switch to something new.”

Did you leave on good terms? Meaning, did you go through the offboarding process, instructing your coworkers on how to take up your responsibilities? Or did you just say “Adios” and stopped showing up at work?

“Things started to get really boring, and the boss man was kind of mean. I totally deserve better, so I just ghosted them and now I’m looking for a new company. Hi!”

“I didn’t feel like the company’s values coincide with mine. The management was too controlling and micromanaging. I prefer to have some control over my work, and being able to contribute by going above and beyond my requirements.”

Of course, I went through the off-boarding properly. Meaning, gave a timely resignation notice , and transferred all the essential company knowledge to my replacement.”

Did you leave voluntarily, or were you fired?

“I got fired for missing work for a week without an excuse.”

“I was fired, actually. The fault was in my communication skills at the time. I misunderstood my supervisor’s instructions and ended ended up setting a higher monthly spend on ad account for the client. The losses were not more than 3-figures, but apparently, the relationship with the client was already strained, so they ended up leaving.

Of course, I really took this to heart and worked very hard on improving my communication skills, to ensure that I don’t make any mistakes of this nature ever again.”

5) Why is there a gap in your work experience?

In most cases, a gap in your work experience doesn’t really mean anything. You probably have a very good reason for it.

The interviewer, however, will definitely ask about it, and you should answer adequately.

There’s no secret sauce to answering this question, just let the recruiter know about your situation, whatever that may be:

Maternity leave
Health issues
Caring for a sick family member
Time off to pursue further education
Relocating to a different city
Working on a personal project

Whichever the case may be, just explain the situation in brief and move on.

One thing to keep in mind, however, is that if you were laid off at work, or you quit and had trouble getting a new job , you should be very subtle about it.

If the interviewer knows that you’re struggling to find a job , you’re going to give them the upper hand in salary negotiations.

“I had a baby and had to take maternity leave.”

“My father was sick, so I had to be the one to take care of him full-time over a few months.”

6) Why were you fired?

Now this is a tough one.

Getting fired is pretty much never good.

Keep in mind that we’re talking about getting fired, not getting laid off. There’s a huge difference between the two:

Getting laid off means that you got let go for something that had nothing to do with your competence. I.e. budget cuts, company down-sizing, etc.
Getting fired , on the other hand, means that you got let go for a reasonable cause. And chances are, it’s probably your fault.

If you got fired and the interviewer asks you about it, you should be honest. After all, they can easily check-in with your previous employer.

Your best shot here is to be critical about your mistakes, and explain what you’ve done to improve.

“None of it was my fault. My boss is a total tool, and he hates me for no real reason. He yelled at me for no real reason!”

In the example above, the interviewee gets defensive. That’s a pretty huge red flag for the HR manager.

Instead, try saying something that shows that you’re aware of your mistakes.”

“The main fault was in miscommunication. The interviewer was unclear about the job responsibilities - from what I understood, they were looking for a senior-level marketer to oversee their email marketing operations.

At the end of the day, though, it turned out that the company was looking to experiment with email marketing, and specifically for someone to set it up from scratch.

While I did my best to deliver, in the end it turned out that their niche doesn’t actually need email marketing. This was against the management’s vision, so that decided to let me go.”

7) How do you feel about working weekends or late hours?

You’re gonna get asked this question in one of the following 2 cases:

1) You’re applying for a job that requires working odd hours.

In this case, your answer is pretty straightforward - since you’re applying for such a job, you probably don’t have any problems working odd hours.

“Sure! I’m OK with working late hours or weekends, as long as you let me know about it at least a few days in advance.”

2) You’re applying for just about any other type of job.

Now, you should look at this as a red flag. Is the employer just checking your dedication, or are they looking for someone that’s going to work 24/7 with no overtime pay?

In this case, ask them to clarify what they mean.

“Given enough warning, sure. Is that something I’ll be required to do often? Do you offer overtime pay for this kind of situation?”

8) How would your boss or coworkers describe you?

This question is pretty much the same as “ what are your greatest strengths ,” the only difference is that it should be from the point of view from your boss or coworkers.

Here, you want to focus on your traits and achievements that you’ve previously been praised for (After all, the interviewer might ask for a reference!).

There are at least 2 ways to answer this question:

1) Describe a specific situation where you excelled at work (and received praise from your boss and coworkers)

“They’d say I’m super hard working. During my weekend-off, not one, but three of my coworkers got sick, and I had to spot for them.

The weekend was peak season in Nantucket, so the restaurant was getting seriously overwhelmed. All of a sudden, we went from being very prepared for the season, to complete panic.

Had to jump between serving, bussing, and line-cooking, but overall, managed to survive through the weekend successfully.”

2) Quote a performance review

If you’ve previously worked in an office job, you’re probably all too familiar with these.

Did your boss give you a glowing performance review? Make sure to mention it here!

“Well, in my last performance review in September, my boss described me as someone who takes initiative.

My position as a PR manager involves constantly keeping track of our clients brand reputation, and if something goes wrong, dealing with it as fast as possible.

In a lot of cases, you need to be very proactive - if you wait for your entire team to have a meeting on how to deal with the issue, it might already be too late.

There were 4-5 different situations where I had to take charge and react to problems literally the moment they arose, whether it was during my work hours, or not.”

9) Do you have any serious medical conditions?

When asking this question, the interviewer wants to learn if you have any medical conditions that could impair your ability to do the job correctly.

In most cases, you’re not obliged to give an answer. If you do have a health condition, and it doesn’t have anything to do with your career, you can simply choose not to answer, or to say “No.”

However, you might want to disclose anything that could potentially have an impact on how you perform.

For example, if the job requires you to lift heavy boxes, for example, and you’re not able to do so because of a condition, you should let the HR manager know.

[Sample Answer 1]

“I don’t have any serious medical conditions”

[Sample answer 2]

“I’m unable to lift heavy objects because of issues with my back, but it won’t have any impact on how I perform at an office job”

10) What would your first 30, 60, or 90 days look like in this role?

If you’re applying for a senior or leadership role, you’re probably going to get asked this question.

Chances are, at this stage of the interview, you already know a lot about your future position and the company.

Now, it’s time to show off your knowledge in your field, and explain how you’re going to start making things happen at the company.

So, here’s how to answer the question:

You’re probably going to need to get to know the company first. You’re going to be learning as much as possible, including information on:

What does the company do?
What are the key processes?
What does your department do?
What are the current problems and challenges?
Where can you help?

You’ll start start making things happen. From all the info you gathered, suggest a handful (3 to 5) initiatives you could take on:

You’d audit the company email marketing strategy and suggest improvements
You’ll help come up with better ad copies for Facebook marketing
You’ll help the team with their ongoing marketing initiatives

You’re already have started making an impact. Describe several things you think are going to be functioning better:

Online ads are going to be performing better by 10-20%
Email marketing operations are going to be more streamlined, taking significantly less manpower

11) Are you a team player?

Wherever you’re applying, the answer to this question should be a “Yes!”

Even if you’re applying for a completely solo role, chances are, you’re still going to have to work in a team occasionally .

We’d recommend being very specific about your answer here - don’t just say yes. Give the interviewer an exact example of when you excelled at working with a team.

“I’m much better at working in a team than alone, actually. That’s what I love about working in advertising - everyone has their own specific type of a creative spark, and when you combine it all, magic happens!

I’m good at both leading and following in terms of creativity and brainstorming. I’m also super receptive to others ideas, and do my best to help them execute it without nay-saying or criticism.”

“Yep, definitely. I excel at team-work.

This one time while working at [Company X], I was assigned to an existing team working on a web application for a business process management company.

They were working on a tight deadline, and needed help on the API side.

I optimised their development cycles and oversaw a team of three developers while collaborating with the other two dev teams.

Everything went pretty well, and we managed to finish the project on time.”

12) Are you a risk-taker?

This one’s pretty tricky, as the answer here depends on your profession and field.

Ask yourself - is risk-taking a valuable skill for the job?

If you’re a pilot, for example, the answer should be a strict “No!”

If, on the other hand, you’re a day trader, then risk is an essential part of your job.

So, depending on how valuable risk is for your job, answer accordingly.

You could also give a more strategic answer. Let’s say, for example, you work in investment banking. You need to be a risk taker to an extent, but being too risk-friendly might make the entire company go bankrupt.

The strategy in such a case would be to show that you’re all about calculated risk . You’re willing to take chances, but only when the odds are in your favor.

As with most interview questions, you should give examples of situations where you had to take risks, and what the end-results were.

“Yes, I’m a risk-taker. I believe that to achieve real results, you always need to be willing to take a certain level of risk.

Pretty much any marketing initiative you launch is tied to risk. You can plan everything from beginning till the end, but no matter how well you plan it out, things might just not work out.

It’s just part of the job - in order to succeed, you need to take launch risky campaigns on a regular basis, and hopefully, one in every 5 is going to bring you massive results.”

“I’m not a risk-taker, I’m more of a risk-manager. As someone who’s been in finance for years, I can say with a lot of confidence that there’s risk in everything.

The most important things are to one, minimize your risks, and two, minimize potential damages if everything goes very, very wrong.

While working at Investment Bank X, we had a very interesting policy for investing in new fintech projects. We used to avoid moon-shots, high-tech projects, as well as anything that had an experimental business model.

Our strategy was to invest in proven tech. As in, proven product-market fit, business model, etc. In most cases, these were runner up companies. We wouldn’t invest in that one innovative company that was all over the news - we’d instead invest in their latest competitor. More often than not, this ended up being more profitable, and significantly less risky.”

13) How do you deal with pressure or stressful situations?

If you’re applying for a high-stress job, you’re guaranteed to get asked this question.

The aim of this question is to see if you’re the type of person who’d survive working at the job, or fall through the cracks when the first signs of trouble show up.

Obviously, you wouldn’t answer with the following…

“Well, I end up having a panic attack, crying, and running away from work.”

Instead, answer as follows…

Say that yes, you do tend to perform well during stressful situations
Give 1-2 examples of a situation where you had to perform well under pressure

Now, let’s go through some real-life examples:

“Though I can’t particularly say I enjoy stressful situations, I AM very good at working under pressure.

During chaos and panic, I tend to take a step back, think, plan, and prioritize.

For example, there have been times I’ve had to juggle multiple university projects and assignments at the same time. I would break up large assignments into small, individual tasks, and prioritize based on:

How fast I could complete each task
Figuring out which task would take the longest
Which project had the earliest deadline

This way, my work became a lot more manageable. The most times I had to experience such situations, the better I performed overall.”

“I actually prefer working under pressure. I look at it as a challenge - a situation where I really have to up my game to succeed.

As a cook, working under pressure is pretty much part of the job. I’ve been in several situations where the restaurant was understaffed for the occasion. Heck, it’s pretty much a constant thing during peak season.

When there’s a ton of orders coming in and we can barely keep up, I tend to get significantly more productive than usual.”

14) Do you prefer hard work, or smart work?

By definition, hard work is when you, well, work hard. It’s when you’re willing to put in a lot of work to get the job done.

Smart work on the other hand, means doing the work efficiently. If you manage to get the job done in 2 hours instead of 5, with the same end-result, you’re doing smart work.

Keep in mind, though, that by asking this question, the interviewer is looking to understand what your work ethic is like. Meaning, they’re looking for a healthy combination of both, not just one.

That is, they want you to be the candidate who not only thinks smartly but works hard as well.

So, your answer here shouldn’t be one-sided...

“Oh, I looove smart work. That’s when you come up with what to do, and make other people do it, right?”

Instead, explain how you excel at both:

“I don’t particularly have a preference - I believe that both hard and smart work is important to get the best results.

Smart work, on one hand, lets you figure out the best and most efficient way to get things done.

Hard work, on the other hand, means that you’ll do the job right. Even if there’s no way to do it smart or efficiently, you’ll be willing to put in long hours of work to get it done.

I’m the type that does both.

For an example of smart for, during my time at [Made Up Corporation], I was in charge of the sales department. As a process improvement initiative, I migrated from an outdated, in-house CRM, to Pipedrive. This improved the department’s productivity by around 20%.

On the other hand, the whole migration process took around 3 months of hard work. As the software we were using was outdated, trying to learn how to map and migrate our data was a lot more complicated than we’d expected.”

15) How quickly do you adapt to new technology?

Today, whether you’re applying for a software engineering job, or as a cashier in a supermarket, you’re going to need to use technology at least on some level.

It’s very common for a company to adopt new tech - new point of service system, self check-out kiosks, customer management software, and whatever else.

So, you should be able to pick up new tech ASAP . Any new change shouldn’t completely disrupt your work.

So, when answering this question, you should talk about how tech-savvy you are.

Sample Answer:

“I’m pretty tech-savvy. I’ve worked with a lot of different Point of Service systems so far, and have zero difficulties learning how to use new ones.”

As a given, I own a PC, have used Office 365, and all the usual stuff.”

“I’ve always been interested in tech. In fact, I’m the type of person to actively seek out new software to help solve business problems at work.

I’ve worked with 3 different Customer Management Software in the past, such as PipeDrive, SalesForce, and Zoho CRM.”

16) Do you have any interests outside of work?

If the interviewer asks you this question, take it as a good sign!

It means that they liked your professional background, and now they’re just trying to get to know you and see if you’re a good fit for the company culture.

It’s pretty hard to go wrong here, unless you’re going to answer something like:

“I have literally no hobbies.”

“All I do is play video games all day.”

Just talk about your hobbies and interests , and you’re all set!

Bonus points if you can mention something that’s also relevant to your job (creative writing if you’re applying for a copywriting job, for example).

Sample Answer 1

“I’m a big fan of creative writing. I have my own personal short-story blog, and contribute actively to several online writing communities (such as Writing Prompts on Reddit).

Oh, and I’m also a huge fan of the New York Giants.”

“Well, I’m very interested in all sorts of sports. I like to keep active, as it really helps keep me productive. Over the past 2 years, I’ve done a bit of everything - fencing, archery, hiking, and several other things.”

17) What do you think our company/organization could do better?

Well, this one’s interesting!

While not too common for most organizations, it’s a favorite amongst tech companies.

How come? Well, answering this question shows a couple of things…

That you’re really passionate about the organization, and have done your research
Are not afraid of giving feedback

Obviously, you should be very political about your feedback. You can’t just say that:

“Well, a lot of things really. I’m not enjoying this interview right here, for example.

And your product kinda sucks, no offense. But hey, there’s always room for improvement, am I right?”

Instead, you want to show off the research you’ve done. Talk about anything that might seem off about their product or business:

“I actually went through your resume builder before coming to the interview, and found several things that seemed kinda counter-intuitive.

Not to say that it’s too hard to understand, or something, but it took me a while to figure out some stuff.

If you want, I can open up my laptop and show you what I mean.”

How to Answer 3 Most Common Behavioral Questions in an Interview [w/ Possible Answers]

Finally, behavioral job interview questions are questions that focus on how you’ve performed in the past, or how you’d perform in a specific situation.

They’re used to understand your thinking patterns, and whether you can think on your feet.

Remember the STAR interview method we discussed all the way up? Well, it can be used to answer just about any behavioral interview questions.

To brush up your memory, the main idea behind the STAR method is that each answer should involve the following:

Here are 3 of the most common behavioral interview questions (with sample answers):

1) Give an example of how you have handled a challenge in the workplace before.

What the interviewers want to know in this case is how well you handle conflict and difficulties.

So, the answer here should be pretty straightforward. You should describe a challenge you faced at work, and explain how you solved it.

“During my last job as a Google Ads expert, one of the company clients had accidentally butchered their own ad account. I noticed this over the weekend and saw that they were basically wasting money on nothing.

I took the initiative and immediately got in touch with the client to let them know about the issue. Then, we set up an impromptu meeting on the same day, and fixed the account before any real damage could be done.”

“During my last job, I was managing the creative and web dev team in charge of creating an online store for a client. Two days before deploying, we found a major bug that messed up the whole front-end user experience.

Now, we could have pushed the deadline a bit, but that would have messed up the relationship with the client. The project was already postponed once because of unforeseen circumstances, so this one was a do or die.

I assembled a task force consisting of web developers from my team, as well as some software engineers from another department. We focused 100% of our time on fixing the issue, and actually managed to launch on time at the end.”

2) Give an example of when you performed well under pressure.

For any high-stress work environment, you’re guaranteed to get asked this question.

“I actually perform a lot better when under a lot of pressure. The sense of urgency and importance really motivates me to up my game and make sure everything works out right.

When I worked as a Financial Analyst at [MadeUpFinanceCompanyInc], most of the work was very high pressure. I had to go above and beyond the line of duty to make sure we met the tight deadlines set by our clients. This often meant working 12 hour work days, and sometimes, working over the weekend.”

“As a seasonal worker, my entire career is high-pressure, haha... My last position was as a line cook during the summer at the SomeRestaurant in JacksonHole, Wyoming.

Around 3 out of 4 of the months were super high stress - there was a LOT of work, and the restaurant was pretty much always full. Heck, I’ve even had to skip breaks just to make sure we wouldn’t be understaffed.”

3) Give an example of when you showed leadership qualities.

Applying for a leadership position? You’ll definitely get asked this behavioral interview question.

Keep in mind, though, that this question doesn’t necessarily mean that you should have held a managerial position.

What the interviewer is asking for is a situation when you took the initiative and led a project or an initiative.

“As an entry-level marketer, there was not much expected of me at SoftwareCompanyInc.. My main to-dos involved doing research, and completing whatever tasks were assigned to me.

During a content marketing brainstorming session, I came up with an awesome idea to market the company. The gist of it was, we’d interview company clients who were very successful at using the software, create case studies on what exactly they’re doing, and include it in our email marketing strategy.

The Chief Marketing Officer loved the idea and put me in charge of executing the project, which I did with flying colors.”

[BONUS] Job Interview Infographic

Now, it’s time for a quick recap! Check our our new infographic on some of the most common job interview questions (and how to answer them):

interview questions and answers info graphic

Additional Interview Preparation Tips

And we’re finally here!

If you managed to get to this point, you definitely deserve a high-five!

Now, before we wrap up the article, let’s go through a couple of essential tips on acing your interview…

Make sure you’re prepared to answer all the common job interview questions. Wherever you’re applying, you’ll likely be asked several of these questions.
Think of the answers you’ll give for the situational interview questions (whichever ones apply to you). I.e. gap in your work experience, why were you fired, etc.
Understand how to answer behavioral job interview questions. If you know how the STAR method works, this shouldn’t be difficult at all.
Follow basic interview etiquette. Make eye-contact with the interviewer, but polite, and so on.

And finally, good luck on the interview! You got this!

How to Answer Job Interview Questions About Your Resume

Options for Talking About Your Resume

Be selective about what you share, focus on your accomplishments and skills.

You Don't Have to Cover Everything on Your Resume

Be Sure to Get Your Facts Straight

Interviewers frequently start a job interview by asking you to provide an overview of your employment experience. This will often take the form of a request such as "Can you walk me through your resume?" or “Please tell me about your work experience.”

What’s the best way to discuss your resume during a job interview? Here are options for answering questions about your resume, and what (and what not) to share with prospective employers.

Candidates will often recount their work experience in chronological order from the past to present, and focus their response on the jobs they have held and the names of their employers. However, there can be a better approach than simply relaying your work history.

Show Why You're a Good Fit for the Role

Simply stating the facts doesn't tell employers much that they don't already know—and you miss out on an opportunity to show the hiring manager why you’re a perfect fit for the job.

Highlight How You're a Match

Rather than summarizing what’s on your resume, consider your response an opportunity to highlight the aspects of your resume that show that you're a great match for the role.

Use the time to tell the interviewer about your related achievements and what you accomplished at each position you’ve held. Here’s how.

Analyze the Job and Your Qualifications

Prepare by analyzing the most critical requirements for the job for which you’re interviewing. Then select the aspects of your work, academic, and volunteer history which best demonstrate that you have the qualifications and experience to excel in that position. Remember, this is the time to show off what you’ve done, and it’s important to match your qualifications to the job .

Here’s how to decipher a job posting to learn what the employer is looking for in a perfect applicant.

Take advantage of this opportunity to create a favorable impression early in the interview by leading the interviewer through your resume in a more selective manner.

Focus on Your Related Experience

Start by highlighting the most compelling elements of your experience first. You don't need to share everything you have done at each job, describe every class you took, or go through every bullet point on your resume. Remember, the interviewer is likely holding a copy of your resume during the interview and will have a broad sense of the facts around each job, such as your job title, the company name, and the basics of your role.

Keep it Concise and Don't Ramble

Aim to speak for a few minutes when you’re responding to this question, but don’t talk for so long that your answer becomes tedious. Avoid rambling or delving into too many details, and try to tell a coherent story in your response . The best way to accomplish this is to take some time to get ready ahead of time. Have examples and stories ready to share with prospective employers.

Rather than a simple rendition of your position, titles, and responsibilities, cite your key accomplishments and reference the skills that enabled you to achieve those successes. Be sure to mention how you impacted the bottom line in those roles, and how you added value to your employer.

Did you help the company save money or work on a team that finished a major project? Be ready to explain these achievements in a succinct but interesting manner. Try to present your points in the form of stories that portray problems you solved and challenges you met.

This part of the job interview is also a great opportunity to explain job movement as it relates to your career.

For instance, you might say, "Working at ABC Company taught me a great deal about product marketing, but I ultimately made the move to XYZ Company because it offered me the opportunity to manage a team. Working in this kind of leadership and team-building environment is a real priority for me."

You Don't Have to Cover Everything on Your Resume

Feel free to leave out jobs that are not relevant or impressive, and it’s fine to deviate from a chronological presentation.

At the end of your presentation, the interviewer should have a clear understanding of five to seven assets in your background that will enable you to perform at a high level in the job for which you’re interviewing.

It's important to be accurate when you're recounting your work history . Forgetting about when and where you worked at any given time may not seem like something that might happen. But when you're stressed about interviewing, it can be easy to forget the exact details of your employment history .

Review your resume before you go in for your interview. It’s also a good idea to bring a copy of your resume with you to the interview. If you’re not sure about what your interviewer needs to know, here’s information on sharing your work history during job interviews.

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Resume Preparation

How to Present a Resume in an Interview

Last Updated: February 21, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Colleen Campbell, PhD . Dr. Colleen Campbell is the Founder and CEO of The Ignite Your Potential Centers, Career and Life Coaching based in the San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles. Colleen received her MA and PhD in Clinical Psychology from Sofia University and has been career coaching since 2008. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 84,543 times.

The interview is one of the most important parts of the process of finding a job. Notably, it’s also a great opportunity to present your resume in a way that will make you stand out as an applicant and will emphasize the strongest aspects of your career experience. By following simple formatting techniques and assembling your resume in a professional way, you can make sure your resume is presented in a way that makes you a strong contender for the job you’re applying for.

Assembling and Presenting Your Resume

Step 1 Make sure your resume is formatted correctly.

For example, consider centering your name and contact information instead of having it extend from the left. Your name should also be in a slightly larger font than the rest of the resume.
Make your resume as skimmable as possible. The people reading your resume may have to read dozens, or even hundreds, more like it and inevitably will have to skim them. Thus, making your resume easily skimmable will make the reader appreciative and give you and your resume more attention as an applicant.

Step 2 Get a portfolio or folder to hold your resume and other papers.

For example, if the company is more artistic and expressive in its content, consider using a portfolio with creative designs or that you can personalize with your own designs. If you want to appear organized and professional, use a simple black portfolio.

Step 3 Print your resume on quality paper.

Use this paper to print out your references sheet and any other materials you plan to bring to the interview.

Step 4 Purchase business cards on paper that matches your resume.

Make sure your business cards are printed on the same type of paper that you used to print out your resume. This will give your documents a consistency that will reflect positively on you during your interview.

Step 5 Place your resume, references, and card in your portfolio and bring it.

If your portfolio doesn’t have a card-holder slot, simply bring your business card with you and give it to the people interviewing you if the opportunity arises.

Step 6 Bring multiple copies of your resume and cover letter.

You should also bring multiple copies of your cover letter and any other relevant documents you plan to bring to your interview.

Discussing Your Resume During the Interview

For example, ask your interviewer something like, “What part of my educational background or work experience is most interesting to you?”
To be even more precise, you can also ask your interviewer how much time they would like you to spend discussing specific portions of your resume.

Step 2 Prioritize discussing your most relevant work experience first.

This strategy has the added benefit of preventing you from being rambling in your answer. Moreover, if your interviewer remains interested in other aspects of your prior experience, they will most likely ask about them in a follow-up question.
In any case, do mention your two most recent jobs and explain why you ultimately ended up leaving them and applying for this new job.

Step 3 Emphasize the parts of your resume that highlight what you bring to the position.

For example, if one of your previous jobs was very similar to the job you’re currently applying for, talk about the relevant experience and skill sets you acquired through that job and how you could bring them to bear on the new position.
Don’t try to summarize each prior position or educational experience in its entirety; instead, focus on describing those aspects of the job or training that are most relevant to this position.

Colleen Campbell, PhD

Address what the interviewer is looking for. Colleen Campbell, CEO of Ignite Your Potential, says: “When building your resume and preparing for the interview, look at the posting and address what they’re looking for in some way. Build a list of your wins at other companies and create a narrative around them to prepare yourself for the interview. Always have things to talk about that are related to the elements in the posting .”

Step 4 Avoid skimping on the details of your resume.

For example, spend ample time discussing any previous jobs that were similar in responsibilities and required skills to the job you’re currently applying for. Meanwhile, spend as little time as possible on prior jobs that aren’t relevant to this position at all.
If you skimp too much on the details of your resume, your answers may come across to the interviewer as superficial.

Expert Q&A

↑ https://www.wikihow.com/Present-a-Resume-in-an-Interview
↑ https://www.thebalancecareers.com/how-to-include-your-contact-information-on-your-resume-2063308
↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/build-your-work-portfolio
↑ https://careertrend.com/how-4517241-present-resume.html
↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/walk-me-through-your-resume
↑ https://news.efinancialcareers.com/us-en/272689/how-to-nail-the-walk-me-through-your-resume-interview-question
↑ https://www.monster.ca/career-advice/article/walk-me-through-your-resume

About This Article

Presenting your resume in an interview is an important part of making a good impression. It’s also a good way for you to highlight the strongest aspects of your career experience. Bring a basic, black portfolio to the interview with multiple copies of your resume, cover letter, references, and business cards. That way, if there are multiple interviewers they’ll all be able to follow along. If you know which aspects of your resume the interviewer is most interested in, focus on those areas. If not, don’t be afraid to ask! In general, you’ll want to focus on your most relevant work experience to the position you’re interviewing for. Instead of summarizing each of your prior positions, focus on specific examples of skills you learned. For example, if you led a successful project at your last job, explain how you managed it, what you learned, and how you could apply those skills to this new position. To learn how to ensure your portfolio matches the company vibe, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Things to do Before, During, and After Your Interview

An employer will invite you for an interview if they believe that you have the skills to succeed at their company. In the interview, they will seek to evaluate your genuine interest in the company and the role, your preparedness for the position, and your potential to add value to their team.

Your answers to the questions they ask will help them assess your skills, experience, and motivation.

Below, you will ﬁnd suggestions on how to prepare for the interview, show yourself in the best light during the interview, and follow up after the interview.

Before the Interview

Research the company and industry.

Employers gauge your interest and motivation by how much you know about their organization. Do your research on the position, company, and industry.

Reread the job description and think how you can communicate why you would be a good ﬁt for the position.
Review the organization’s website and social media activity.
Learn about current trends and events that might impact your future employer.
Try to get insider knowledge of the organization by speaking with LinkedIn contacts, alumni, peers, faculty, family, or other contacts who may have a deeper understanding of the organization.

prepare the key points you want to communicate during the interview

Prepare responses around these themes so that you will be ready for a wide variety of questions.

Why are you interested in this position? Evaluate how your past experiences (academic, professional, co-curricular, personal) have contributed to your interest in this role. Think about why you want to do this kind of work at this particular organization.

Why are you a good candidate for this position? Assess for how your work experience, personal qualities, academic accomplishments, and co-curricular activities make you qualified for the position. Identify the transferable skills and knowledge that you would bring to the position. Be prepared to demonstrate your skills with examples using the SARA method (Situation, Action, Result, Application) .

Practice your interviewing skills

Many people practice for an interview by writing answers to common interview questions . While organizing your thoughts on paper is helpful, you should supplement it with verbal practice, alone, or with a friend, mentor, or career counselor. You can schedule a practice interview with a career counselor to get feedback on your interview responses and presentation. We also host a Practice Interview Program each semester that allows you to practice and get feedback from a Columbia alum.

For independent practice in a virtual format, we recommend Big Interview , which you have access to for free through our office. You can practice answering interview questions by industry or job function, record yourself, and use their tool for self-assessment or share any video with a mentor for feedback.

The interview is also a chance to learn more about the employer and the position. Think about what you’d like to learn more about the role, division, organization, and industry. Identify questions to ask the employer that will help you determine if this is the right position for you.

Day Before the Interview Checklist

Review your notes, resume, cover letter, job description, and company/industry summaries.
For an in-person interview, know the route you will take to the interview location and how much travel time you will need. Build in additional time to ensure you will not be late.
Prepare an appropriate interview outfit. Our Clothing Closet is a resource for students in need of professional attire for an interview, career fair, or professional networking event.
Make note of the name and title of the interviewer or the person you will check-in with.
Have the following items prepared: copies of your resume, a list of references, a notepad, and pens.
Get a good night’s rest.

The Day of the Interview

Before the interview begins.

Be on time! Aim to arrive at least 10–15 minutes early.
Bring the supplies you prepared the night before your interview.
Be considerate and polite to all staﬀ members.
Put mobile devices on silent.
Avoid any scents that may be distracting to the employer.
Enter with a positive attitude.

during the interview

Listen carefully to the interviewer and make sure you answer the question your interviewer is asking.
Relate your skills, accomplishments, and objectives to the needs of the company.
Provide speciﬁc examples when possible using the SARA method (Situation, Action, Result, Application) .
Focus on the positive aspects of your training and experience. You don’t have to apologize for any perceived lack of experience or background.
Use clear and direct language. Avoid using filler words such as “um” or “like.” Make your point and don’t ramble.
Maintain eye contact with your interviewer(s). If there are multiple interviewers, remember to engage with all of them.
Be aware of your body language. Convey confidence and engagement with your posture.
Observe the people and oﬃce space to get a sense of the company’s culture.
If you do not have the interviewer’s contact information, request a business card so that you can send a thank you note.

After the Interview

Send a thank you note within 24 hours of the interview. Check out a sample thank you note for inspiration.
Evaluate your performance. Did any questions stump you? Consider how you can improve your answers for the next interview.
Think about what you learned about the position and employer during the interview. Assess how the position would meet your priorities and goals.
After a ﬁrst round interview you may be called back for additional rounds of interviews depending on the employer’s process. Check out our resource on what to expect at a second round interview to help you prepare.
If a job oﬀer is provided on the spot, which is uncommon, it is appropriate to thank the employer and to tell them that you need more time to consider the offer. Ask about the company’s timeline and deadline for your answer.
If you do not hear from the employer after the hiring timeline they initially indicated, follow up once. Call or email the interviewer or human resources contact. Reaffirm your interest in the position and inquire about the new hiring timeline.

Related Resources

Young man shakes hands with his potential new boss

You Got a Second Interview! Now What?

Congratulations—you made it through your ﬁrst-round interview! It’s likely that the ﬁrst round interview was conducted by phone or virtually—now they want to meet you in person.

Interviewer and interviewee shake hands across the interview table

Common Interview Questions and How to Answer Them

Preparation is the key to interview success. We’ve included examples of the most common interview questions and how to answer them

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What to Bring to an Interview: The Ultimate Checklist

Klara Cervenanska ,
Updated October 30, 2023 9 min read

Navigating the job market can feel like a maze, and when you finally secure that interview, you might ask yourself, "What to bring to an interview?"

Whether you're a fresh graduate, a teenager stepping into the professional world, or someone eyeing a shift in career, preparation is key.

While nailing your responses and being mentally prepped is crucial, the items you bring along can also make a significant impact .

Wondering what to bring to an interview as a teenager? Or perhaps not sure about the documents you should bring to an internship interview?

Being clear about what to bring can be the difference between appearing organized and professional versus seeming unprepared.

So, let's delve into the specifics and help you walk into that interview room with confidence.

Click on a section to skip

Must-haves checklist

What to bring to an interview as a teenager, what to bring to an internship interview, what documents should you bring to an interview, what not to bring to a job interview, general job interview tips, how to prepare for an online interview, key takeaways: what to bring to an interview.

Every interview, regardless of the job or industry, requires certain staples. These are your non-negotiables, which show you’re both organized and serious about the role.

Here's a checklist of 7 must-have items to bring to an interview:

Professional folder or portfolio. A consolidated space to keep all your materials. Presents an image of someone methodical and structured.
Multiple copies of your resume. You might meet multiple interviewers. Handing each a copy not only saves them time but highlights your preparedness. It also helps when referencing specific experiences.
Professional references. This isn't just a list of names; it's a testament to your professional journey. Ensure you've given your references a heads-up — they might get a call soon.
Identification and other documents. Often overlooked, but some companies need these for verification. Whether it's a Driver’s License, Passport, or any other ID, it’s better to be over-prepared than caught off-guard.
Questions for the interviewer. Crafting a few thoughtful questions saves you from that cringe-worthy silence that usually follows the "Do you have any questions for us?" moment. It shows you've done your homework and genuinely care about the role and company.
Pen and notepad. It's more professional than pulling out your phone every few minutes. Plus, it's perfect for quickly scribbling down key names, dates, or those "aha!" insights that pop up during the conversation.
A watch. Time management speaks volumes. While phones are great, a watch is a more subtle and professional way to keep track of time.

Each of these items not only serves a functional purpose but also crafts a narrative about who you are and how you operate. So the next time you're preparing for an interview , revisit this checklist.

First off, let's address the elephant in the room. As a teenager, diving into the professional world can be overwhelming.

Whether it's a summer gig, an exciting internship, or a volunteer opportunity, there’s a first for everything.

And hey, feeling a bit lost or unsure? Totally normal! We've all been there.

But being equipped with the right items can be a small yet powerful step in easing those nerves.

Now, onto the golden checklist of what to bring to an interview as a teenager :

Educational achievements or certificates. Just aced that algebra test or completed a coding course? They shout out your dedication and skills.
Extracurricular activity evidence. Whether you're the captain of the debate team, part of the school play, or into sports, these activities reflect your teamwork and leadership skills. Photos, certificates, or even newspaper clippings – they all count.
Part-time job or volunteering experience. Even if it was just helping at your local library or a stint at the ice cream parlor, it gives a sneak-peek into your work ethic and responsibility levels.
How often do we get paid? Weekly, monthly?
Who's the person to go to if I have questions?
What are your expectations from me in the first few days?
I'm not 18 yet – do you need my parents to sign any paperwork?
Your first resume. Even if it’s brief, it matters. No stress if you're unsure how to start or what to include! Online resume builders can help you whip up a pro-looking one in no time.

With this checklist in hand and a sprinkle of self-belief, you're all set to ace that interview. Go on and show them what you've got!

Internships are not the same as regular jobs. They're your sneak peek into the "real world" but without the full commitment of a 9-to-5.

And since internships often lean more towards learning and less about what you've done, what you bring should reflect that.

Here's what to bring to an internship interview:

Course Syllabus . It's a quick way to show how your education aligns with the internship and fills in the "experience" gaps.
Academic projects. Got a group project you're proud of? It’s proof you can work in a team and take initiative.
A list of skills you want to learn .This isn't just about what you can offer them, but what they can offer you. Show them you're eager to grow.
Tech or tools you've played with . Maybe you've dabbled in a new software for fun, or you've played around with some cool apps related to your field.

And if you're left wondering how to kickstart the process in the first place, you can apply for an internship via email using these email templates.

When it's game day and you're suiting up for that interview, it's not just about bringing your A-game mentally. You've got some physical homework to take along too.

Here's a list of documents you should bring to an interview:

Resume. It's the document they’ve likely seen, but having a crisp copy (or two) on hand is non-negotiable. It’s your professional journey on paper. Plus, you can refer back to it when asked about your previous experience.
Cover letter. Even if they’ve seen it digitally, a hard copy can serve as a quick refresher for the interviewer. It gives context to your resume.
ID card/passport. Most companies require a formal ID for security and verification. It's always good to be prepared.
Driver's license. If the role involves driving or you're applying out of state, this can be a crucial piece of ID.
Social security card. Many employers ask to see your social security card for payroll and tax reporting purposes. It’s handy, just in case.
List of professional references . These are the people who can vouch for your skills and character. Ensure they know they might receive a call!

Gathering up these documents shouldn't be a problem. Chances are, they're either already in your wallet or you've prepped them for the interview.

Are you getting ready for a job interview?

Carrying multiple copies of your resume is crucial. Don't have one? Time to create it now.

Going into an interview, we usually focus on what to bring. But let's flip the script for a sec.

Here are a few things you'd best leave at home for a job interview:

Overbearing perfume. A little goes a long way. Remember, some people might be allergic or sensitive.
Chewing gum. It might keep your breath fresh, but chomping away during a conversation isn't a good look.
Your entire life in a bag. Bringing a massive bag or backpack can seem messy. Especially when you need to fetch something quickly and can't find it.
Loud jewelry or accessories. While personal style is important, avoid accessories that make noise or can be distracting.
Smartphone (on loud). An unexpected ring or notification can interrupt your flow and distract both you and the interviewer.
Food or drinks. Carrying a coffee or snack might seem harmless, but it's best to consume these before entering. Spills or crumbs can make things awkward!
Too much personal info. Your interview should revolve around your professional attributes. Avoid bringing up personal issues or sharing TMI unless it’s directly relevant.

Remember, interviews are a blend of showcasing your skills and demonstrating good judgment. Every choice, including what you decide not to bring, plays a role in building that critical first impression.

Acing an interview goes beyond just checking off a list. It's the vibe you bring, the homework you've done, and the smart way you connect.

Let's dive into some general interview tips to help you leave a lasting mark:

Research the company. Understand the company's history, values, and current news. It demonstrates interest and initiative.
Rehearse common questions. While you can't predict every question, practicing answers to common ones like " Why should we hire you? " will boost your confidence.
Dress the part. If you're not sure what to wear to a job interview , it's always better to be slightly overdressed than under. Ensure your attire fits the company culture.
Body language matters. A firm handshake, maintaining eye contact, and sitting up straight convey confidence.
Listen Actively. Don't just wait for your turn to talk. Engage with the interviewer and show genuine interest in what they say.
Ask questions. When the interviewer asks if you have questions, it’s your time to shine. Prepare some thoughtful queries to highlight your enthusiasm.
Follow up post interview. A thank-you email after an interview or note can set you apart. It reiterates your interest and shows gratitude for the opportunity.

Prepare for your next interview with AI.

Our AI interview questions generator will help you practice answering the most common interview questions for your job position.

The world is ever-evolving, and the interview process hasn't been left behind.

With a rise in remote jobs and global teams, virtual interviews have become commonplace.

But, how do you navigate this digital domain?

Tech check. Make sure your internet connection is stable. Test your camera and microphone. Use headphones to reduce background noise and offer clearer audio.
Have a backup plan. Technology can be unpredictable. Have a phone on standby in case of any technical issues.
Choose your background wisely. Opt for a clean, clutter-free background. If you're using virtual backgrounds, make sure they look professional and aren't distracting.
Maintain eye contact . Look at the camera, not the screen. This gives the impression of making eye contact with the interviewer.
Prepare your environment. Minimize potential disturbances. Inform household members of your interview to avoid unexpected interruptions.

And if you thought you don't have to bring any items with you to an online interview, you're mistaken.

Your mind is the star of the show. Preparing it is your top priority. But ever felt that mini heart attack when you can't find an essential item minutes before leaving?

We've all been there. That's why we believe in the power of preparation – not just mentally, but physically too.

And that's exactly why we prepared the ultimate 7-item checklist for what should you bring to an interview:

Professional folder or portfolio.
Multiple copies of your resume.
Professional references.
Identification and other documents.
Questions for the interviewer.
Pen and notepad.

With this in hand, you're not just walking into an interview. You're making an entrance. So, keep this guide handy the next time that interview call comes in.

Klara graduated from the University of St Andrews in Scotland. After having written resumes for many of her fellow students, she began writing full-time for Kickresume. Klara is our go-to person for all things related to student or 'no experience resumes'. At the same time, she has written some of the most popular resume advice articles on this blog. Her pieces were featured in multiple CNBC articles. When she's not writing, you'll probably find her chasing dogs or people-watching while sipping on a cup of coffee.

10 things you absolutely must do before your video job interview (infographic), what to wear to a job interview a quick fashion guide, share this article, join our newsletter.

Every month, we’ll send you resume advice, job search tips, career hacks and more in pithy, bite-sized chunks. Sounds good?

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Job Interview Preparation Tips to Help You Stand Out

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Job Interview Preparation Tips to Help You Stand Out was originally published by the WSJ

To prepare for an interview, study up on the role so you can explain how you meet each of the job requirements.
Be prepared to address your biggest weaknesses, such as gaps in your résumé.
The best way to learn how to interview is by practicing your Q&A with someone you trust, on camera or in the mirror.

You have put time and effort into your job application, perhaps polishing up your résumé and crafting a well-constructed cover letter , earning you a coveted interview. Now is your chance to show why you are a great candidate and how you would fit in with your potential team. If you do your homework, you will be prepared for anything the interviewer throws at you.

1. Study the job description.

Get into the right mind-set by reminding yourself what the job entails and reading the employer’s mission statement, if it has one. Make a list of reasons why this job may be the right fit for your career journey, such as the skills, experience and network you would gain . Focusing on how this job will help you achieve your career goals is a good way to get excited about the role—even if it is not your dream job. This will help you to express why you want the job and to convey enthusiasm during the interview.

Think about what makes you the best candidate for this job. Look at your résumé, and pick out which parts of it align with the job requirements. Write down examples of how you tackled particular projects or problems in your previous experience at work, school or elsewhere in your life that demonstrate you have the skills the employer is looking for. As you work through the job description and mission statement, make a list of your proudest accomplishments that could be used as examples. If you are suffering from imposter syndrome , this can also help you recognize why you are the right person for the job.

2. Prepare to address gaps in your background.

Make a list of anything in your background or résumé that makes you feel nervous and prepare explanations for gaps you may have in your experience. “If there’s something that freaks you out, sit down and…think about how you’re going to present it in the best possible way,” says Pamela Skillings, chief executive of BigInterview.com, an interview training website.

If there is a gap of time in your résumé when you weren’t employed, think about what you gained during that time. Perhaps you learned important life skills or experienced personal growth, which you can present as assets. For example:

If you were traveling, you could talk about what you learned from exploring new cultures, and how you would bring those insights into your job.
If you were caring for a child or a loved one, you could discuss how the experience shaped you and gave you fresh perspectives.

“If there’s something that freaks you out, sit down and…think about how you’re going to present it in the best possible way.” — Pamela Skillings, BigInterview.com

Prepare to address any gaps in your knowledge or experience. If the job description mentions anything that you are not fully familiar with, read up on the subject until you are comfortable discussing it at length. If there are requirements in the job description you don’t have direct professional experience with, think about what you have done at work or elsewhere in your life that demonstrates you have the skills required. If a job requires previous management experience and you have never been a manager in title, perhaps you have led a project, mentored and trained colleagues or filled in for your boss while they were away.

If, after carefully considering your work experience, you still have a gap you can’t fill, acknowledge it and prepare to talk about how you would learn this skill on the job.

“Redirect and reframe. Bring up some of the positives that will ease any concerns,” Ms. Skillings says.

Practicing job interview answers in front of a mirror helps you to identify anything that might distract from the substance of what you have to say. PHOTO: TAMMY LIAN AND JAKE ZUKE

3. Practice your interview question responses ahead of time.

Study some of the top interview questions that may be asked of you.

“Practicing is key,” Ms. Skillings says. “A lot of smart people don’t do it because it feels awkward, but it makes such a huge difference.” Practicing talking about yourself is important at any level of your career. Even senior executives who are “great communicators” sometimes struggle to talk about themselves, she says.

You have already compiled a list of all of the reasons you are a great fit for the role. Now it is time to synthesize and communicate them. If you can’t find someone to practice with, do it in front of a mirror or record a video of yourself. If you don’t like to talk up your own accomplishments, focus on communicating, clearly and efficiently, why your skills and experience meet each requirement of the role. Practicing helps you to identify anything that might distract from the substance of what you have to say.

Top tip: Observe the way you present yourself. If there is anything you are not fully comfortable with, now is the time to address it. If it is your posture, practice sitting up straight. If you notice a distracting habit, like playing with your hair or fidgeting, be aware of it and try to avoid it. Find an alternative place for your hands, such as on the table.

Be authentic. A May 2020 study found that people who behave authentically during a job interview do better overall than those who try to cater to an interviewer’s interests and expectations. This is because it takes a lot of mental energy to try to be someone you are not, which ultimately increases anxiety and could ruin your efforts to create a positive, authentic connection with your interviewer.

4. Make your final job interview preparations.

Write down some thoughtful questions , and be prepared to ask them during or at the end of your interview.

Plan how you are going to show up to the interview. Keep your outfit classic, clean and comfortable so the focus remains on what you are saying, not what you are wearing.

To help combat nerves , visualize a successful interview. Many top athletes use this technique before a big game to focus and reaffirm their positive outlook. Some CEOs have also credited the technique with helping them achieve their goals.

5. Keep the conversation going after the interview.

Sending a thank-you email after the interview can set you apart from other candidates. It is also your opportunity to reiterate why you would be a great fit for the role.

If your interviewer agrees and you receive a job offer, first congratulations! Next, pause and consider whether the offer meets your expectations. Do your research, know what is important to you—from salary to vacation time to other benefits —and counter the offer . Use our guide on the do’s and don’ts for a successful negotiation .

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How to Answer an Open-Ended Question from a Job Candidate

Marlo Lyons

Five strategies for interviewers.

Interviewers should prepare for interviews just as thoroughly as candidates do. Being equipped with compelling stories and setting aside dedicated preparation time, such as 30 minutes beforehand, allows interviewers to mentally prepare and be fully present during the interview. Like with candidates, it’s not only the content of what is said that matters, but also the manner in which it’s conveyed. Demonstrating enthusiasm for the company and the position can leave a lasting impression on candidates, instilling confidence and enthusiasm in their decision-making process.

While interviewers often assume they hold all the power during the interview process, candidates are increasingly asking more insightful questions to assess whether they should make a move to a new company. Just as candidates prepare for interviews, interviewers need to be ready to answer open-ended questions from candidates because the responses could either ignite their enthusiasm or dampen their interest in the opportunity.

Marlo Lyons is a career, executive, and team coach, as well as the award-winning author of Wanted – A New Career: The Definitive Playbook for Transitioning to a New Career or Finding Your Dream Job . You can reach her at marlolyonscoaching.com .

6 common mistakes candidates make during their Amazon job interview—and tips to avoid them

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An image of the back of a man in a suit walking inside The Seattle Spheres at Amazon’s headquarters.

Congratulations! Your resume has piqued the hiring manager’s interest, and you’ve made it past the initial phone screen. You’re now onto the final stages of the interview process, and it’s time to start preparing.

An image of a woman sitting on a chair, smiling for a photo against a white background while wearing a bright blue blazer.

There is a lot of commentary about the Amazon interview process, including over 123,000 videos online and countless blogs, and it can be difficult to know what’s actually factual and relevant. To help you feel more confident and better prepared, we’ve put together this list of common mistakes candidates make during their Amazon interview and some tips on how to best avoid them.

Your interviewers need to be able to follow the stories you are telling about your professional accomplishments, so we recommend candidates format their responses using the STAR method to answer behavioral-based interview questions. The acronym stands for: Situation, Task, Action, and Results. Start with an overview of the Situation, then review the Task(s) and Action(s), and wrap up with an overview of the Results achieved. This will help the interviewers understand your example and allow them to ask the appropriate follow-up questions to learn more. Also, formatting your responses prevents you from rambling and adding unnecessary details that could be distracting. Consider your successes and failures in relation to the Amazon Leadership Principles . Ensure the examples you are highlighting showcase your expertise and how you’ve taken risks, succeeded, failed, and grown.

Amazon is a data-driven company, and we’re looking for candidates who are equally passionate about being able to deliver results. Throughout your interview, make sure you are replacing vague or general responses with specific, quantifiable, and granular information that clearly demonstrates your expertise and involvement. It’s important that you provide enough detail but do not overwhelm the interviewer with too many details. Responses should be four minutes or less. If any information is unclear, your interviewer will then follow up with a question, and you can use this as an opportunity to provide more information. While Amazon is data-driven, we do understand that there are some instances when results can be more qualitative than quantitative. In these instances, make sure you have specific anecdotal feedback that you’re able to share and elaborate on.

That said, a large majority of your examples shared during your interview need to be data-forward. Learning how to describe your professional experience and accomplishments in quantifiable terms is an interview skill that will serve you well throughout your career.

Each Amazon interview is typically 45 minutes to an hour, and within that finite amount of time, we want to hear what you have personally accomplished. It’s difficult to assess a candidate’s skill if they are consistently saying “we” because we are unable to determine the impact you have been able to drive independently.

As a best practice, before your interview think of the professional accomplishments you want to share and write them down. Next, look at those accomplishments and then describe your individual role that contributed to that success. You’d want to share the latter during your interview. We assume that you’re a collaborative team player, but know it’s perfectly acceptable to describe your part in the delivery by saying “I” while at the same time describing what the team achieved to showcase the bigger picture. Use this interview as a time to highlight your accomplishments, not minimize them.

Though it might make sense to elaborate on one particular example to address multiple interviewers' questions, we highly recommend a variety of in-depth examples. Based on the various experiences and examples shared during the final interview, the interview team should be able to gather enough sufficient data points to support their decision on a candidate's success and potential within a specific level and role. If you continue to reiterate the same accomplishment for each interview question, you're not showcasing the depth of your experiences and might leave your interviewer with more questions than answers.

As you begin to prepare for your interview, make sure you have one to two accomplishments to share for each of our Leadership Principles which will then be able to provide a more holistic view into you as a candidate.

You’ve done a lot of hard work to make it to the final round of interviews, and it’s important that you maximize the experience by asking for clarity around a question if you need it. A simple clarifying question that helps you understand what it is that the interviewer really wants to know can make all the difference in success or failure during the interview. We’re invested in your success and welcome the opportunity to provide you with additional details or present the information in a different way.

Asking for additional information is especially important during interviews that include a technical assessment. Before you begin to solve anything, make sure your interpretation is aligned with what the interviewer is asking and then state any assumptions you may have. From there, you can jump into solving the question.

Remember that interviewing is a two-way door, and you should feel empowered to ask clarifying questions both during the interview and before it officially concludes.

Candidates often forget that an interview is not a one-way experience. We encourage you to view the interview as a formal conversation where you and your interviewer are both interested in finding out more about each other. Consider an interview a mutual exchange to explore what value you offer and what Amazon can offer you, be that scope in responsibility, growth opportunities, career development, or other things that are important to you. A job description is a small snapshot of the role, and it’s an even smaller reflection of the company overall. We know you might have questions about our Leadership Principles, culture, and our investment in our employees, and we’re ready to provide what you need. Make sure you come to your interview prepared with questions about things that matter to you so that you are able to get the most out of your time investment.

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If you're interested in learning more about the interview process, find additional tips for interviewing at Amazon and read our hiring FAQs at Amazon.jobs .

Next, learn four ways to improve your resume before applying for a job at Amazon .

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Best tips for preparing for a successful interview

M aking a great first impression and answering all questions with complete confidence is a must to excel in any interview. Before you appear for your next interview, here are some tips that will help you prepare for the upcoming process. If you want to know about the ten top tips, make sure to read this article till the end.

Do your research about the industry:

You must have some sort of information and notion in advance about the company you will give an interview. In this way, we will get some idea about the company, their work, their competitors, and other related factors. So, do your primary and thorough research about the brand before appearing for an interview.

Research about your job role:

The hiring team always looks for a new member who has an appropriate idea about the job role. Unfortunately, job seekers sometimes opt for improper positions and appear for inappropriate interviews. As a result, being unfamiliar with the position, they tend to mess up at the end and do not get selected. To avoid this kind of blunder, make sure to know your job role closely. If you think it is appropriate for you and can ace the interview, begin with the necessary preparation.

Opt for the perfect resume:

Resume matters the most when it comes to job interviews. At first, you have to select the perfect resume formats depending on your experience and skills. However, once you determine which resume format you must choose between chronological, functional, and combination, the journey will become easier.

Another thing you have to remember about a resume is that your resume is customized. Do not go with the same resume again and again. Make sure to rewrite your resume depending on the job position you are looking for. Please note that only a customized, job-appropriate, and good keyword-stuffed resume catches the attention of the hiring team.

Arrive half an hour earlier:

Arriving a few minutes earlier than your scheduled time for your interview is always suggested. If you even have to wait more than half an hour, it is worth it. However, do not make the interviewers wait for you. It is the worst thing! It will show you as a reckless person without any dedication. Additionally, it will create a terrible first impression of you. So, make sure to maintain punctuality and impress the interviewers.

Prepare for common interview questions:

No interview gets started with difficult questions from the very beginning. Interviewers always ask a few normal questions to the job seeker to break the ice. However, without the right preparation and experience, answering these elementary questions may seem quite difficult for you. Some questions like “why do you think you are perfect for this job role?”, “why did you resign from your previous job?”, “where do you want to see yourself in the next five years?” etc., need to be perfectly answered to impress the interviewer.

Don’t do the interview all about yourself:

Job seekers often tend to lose track and speak about themselves throughout the interview. This quality, despite pleasing the hiring team, disappoints them. Since today’s world strives for teams and teamwork, interviewers always look for suitable people who can fit in the position as a team worker. Therefore, it would be wise to practice being a team rather than talking about yourself. Make sure to discuss the importance of teamwork, exhibit your qualities as a team worker, and show your leadership traits to captivate the attention of the front row.

Keep practicing:

Whether it is your first interview or not, practicing is always the key to success. So, keep practicing before your interview, and make your points clear. Then, follow the old methods and stand in front of a mirror. Now, question yourself, and give the answers on your own seriously. Finally, assume it as your final chance of getting the job, and practice hard if you are not satisfied. Remember, the more you rehearse, the more the chances of presenting yourself flawlessly in front of the final hiring team will increase.

Correct your body language:

Body language tells a lot about you. So, make sure to correct your posture before appearing for an interview. Start your interview with a firm handshake, smile, and full of positivity. Opt for the right dress, and enter the interview room full of confidence. Make sure to maintain eye contact with the interviewer throughout the interview. No matter how nervous you are, do not show your nervousness during the session. Avoid wearing cologne or perfume, scratching your head, shaking your hands or legs, and always maintaining the right body posture.

Dress to impress:

A successful interview always needs a perfect dress. However, some people think that dress doesn’t matter, but in a perfect interview out always does. So always opt for a dress that shows your true personality. But remember, do not go for a highly fashion-forward or casual dress. Instead, select something formal since you appear for an interview. If you manage to select the right dress, it will show how much effort you have put into the interview, and, as a result, the hiring manager will consider giving you a chance.

Lastly, be positive:

Last but not least, always be positive. No matter how nervous you are, do not show it. Instead, be positive, answer your questions with positivity, and it will surely secure you a job position in the particular company.

Conclusion:

These were the top ten tips for preparing for a successful interview. So, no matter how big or small the job position you are interviewing for, make sure to follow these tips from top to bottom for a quick and positive outcome. Lastly, be positive, enthusiastic, confident, and always present yourself correctly in front of the interviewers, and you will crack the interview for sure. Best of luck!

Best tips for preparing for a successful interview

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3. Match the job description with your skills. Before sending your resume, it might help to analyze the required skills for the role and then prioritize the skills you have that match the employer's list. This process can also help you during the interview, as it may inspire the interviewer to ask about specific skills.
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9. Tell the truth. Okay, this one is a no-brainer application and interview tip in general, but enough people have lied or "stretched the truth" on their job applications to make it worth mentioning. Don't say you know someone at the company if you've never talked to them before.
Common Interview Questions and How To Answer Them
You might already know that an updated resume and a polished cover letter will help you stand out in a crowd of candidates. ... Understanding the kinds of questions you'll likely be asked during a job interview can give you the opportunity to compose answers that best highlight your qualifications and why you're the right candidate for the ...
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The questions include: Could you tell me something about yourself and describe your background in brief?: Interviewers like to hear stories about candidates. Make sure your story has a great ...
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You have spent time writing a winning resume and applying for jobs, now it is time for the final stage, the job interview.They can be nerve-wracking and there are many traps that candidates fall into during the process. However, correctly preparing for a job interview can significantly improve your chances of success.If you can anticipate which questions will be asked, you will not be caught ...
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22. Tell me about a time you had a conflict at work. " Tell me about a time you had a conflict at work " is a typical behavioral interview question used to evaluate your conflict resolution and people skills. A great way to respond to this prompt is to structure your answer as a short story using the STAR method.
35+ Job Interview Questions and Answers for 2024 [Full List]
Improve a metric, setup a process, etc. Possible answers: Sample Answer 1: Well, as a start, I have all the skills and work experience required for the job. I've worked as a Sales Manager for 5+ years, and over the past 2, I've closed several deals totalling in 6-figures.
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Your resume gets you the interview and your interview gets you the job. So how do you appropriately use your resume while interviewing? In this video, learn the importance of steering the ...
How to Answer Job Interview Questions About Your Resume
You don't need to share everything you have done at each job, describe every class you took, or go through every bullet point on your resume. Remember, the interviewer is likely holding a copy of your resume during the interview and will have a broad sense of the facts around each job, such as your job title, the company name, and the basics of ...
How to Present a Resume in an Interview: 10 Steps (with Pictures)
Bring your portfolio as assembled to use in your interview as a reference. [6] If your portfolio doesn't have a card-holder slot, simply bring your business card with you and give it to the people interviewing you if the opportunity arises. 6. Bring multiple copies of your resume and cover letter.
12 Tips to Ace Your Job Interview
1. Be prepared. Preparing for an interview ahead of time can be the difference between getting the job offer or getting passed up. There are resources online to help you determine the kinds of interview questions you might be asked during your job interview. Whether you find them in a blog post, a YouTube video or from a friend in HR, make a list of the ones you'll prepare for and write down ...
The definitive interview guide. · Resume.io
Preparing for an interview — a quick checklist. A job interview is one of the most important meetings of your life. Below is a summary of the things that will help you prepare to tell your career story and survive what can be a genuinely stressful experience.. Prepare for your job interview by researching the company, rehearsing answers to common questions, and preparing some questions of ...
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Shake your interviewer's hand firmly to show you're a professional applicant. Keep your posture upright but relaxed while sitting so you look comfortable and confident. Make eye contact with the interviewer and smile or nod when it's appropriate. Be polite and keep your tone professional as you're speaking.
Job Interview Tips & Examples for Success
Bring notes to the interview that are compact and easy to refer to while you are answering questions. Throughout the job interview, be as helpful as you can and you will be on your way to selling yourself to the interviewer. 2. Stay positive and confident. The best way to convey a positive image is to smile.
Things to do Before, During, and After Your Interview
Identify questions to ask the employer that will help you determine if this is the right position for you. Day Before the Interview Checklist. Review your notes, resume, cover letter, job description, and company/industry summaries. For an in-person interview, know the route you will take to the interview location and how much travel time you ...
Top 14 Skills for Interview Success (With Examples)
Here are six more in-demand skills to mention during an interview: 9. Negotiation. Negotiation and persuasion skills are essential in roles related to sales and customer service. A good negotiator should have solid communication and interpersonal skills, and a deep understanding of the industry. 10.
50+ Top Interview Questions and Answers in 2023
Walk me through your resume. Like "Tell me about yourself," this question is a common interview opener. But instead of framing your answer around what qualities and skills make you best for the position, your answer should group your qualifications by your past jobs and tell your career story.
How To Write A Résumé That Gets You An Interview
This meant helping her craft a résumé that stands out in the pile, and even more importantly, an elevator pitch so that she's memorable to the interviewer. Here are three ways to make your ...
What to Bring to an Interview: The Ultimate Checklist
General job interview tips. Acing an interview goes beyond just checking off a list. It's the vibe you bring, the homework you've done, and the smart way you connect. Let's dive into some general interview tips to help you leave a lasting mark: Research the company. Understand the company's history, values, and current news.
Job Interview Preparation Tips to Help You Stand Out
Sending a thank-you email after the interview can set you apart from other candidates. It is also your opportunity to reiterate why you would be a great fit for the role. If your interviewer agrees and you receive a job offer, first congratulations! Next, pause and consider whether the offer meets your expectations.
Common Job Interview Questions and How to Answer Them
This common interview question may be hard to prepare for in advance, since details that you learn during the interview itself about the employer's priorities may help you formulate a better, more ...
13 Pro Video Interview Tips and Tricks That Will Get You the Job
The best way to test all of this is to jump on a practice video call with a friend or a family member. #4. Prepare the Environment. You should prepare the environment in which you'll be having a video call to optimize the visual and auditory experience for hiring managers.
How to Answer an Open-Ended Question from a Job Candidate
Just as candidates prepare for interviews, interviewers need to be ready to answer open-ended questions from candidates because the responses could either ignite their enthusiasm or dampen their ...
Amazon job interview mistakes
Each Amazon interview is typically 45 minutes to an hour, and within that finite amount of time, we want to hear what you have personally accomplished. It's difficult to assess a candidate's skill if they are consistently saying "we" because we are unable to determine the impact you have been able to drive independently.
Ex-Google recruiter's best tips for writing an effective resume
When it comes to your resume, there are practices you'll want to weed out. Don't write run-on sentences under your job titles. Don't write general, task-oriented phrases that don't give a ...
Best tips for preparing for a successful interview
Start your interview with a firm handshake, smile, and full of positivity. Opt for the right dress, and enter the interview room full of confidence. Make sure to maintain eye contact with the ...