How to prep for your next interview

So, you’ve perfected your resume, applied for a job and have been called for an interview. What next?

It is time to start preparing. What many people don’t realise is that being well prepared for an interview could be the difference between landing the job, and heading back to the drawing board to start again.

Do some research

There are two key things to keep in mind when you’re preparing for your interview. First, you need to ensure that you know as much as possible about the organisation and your potential job role. Go to the company website to find out who they are, their goals, and importantly, the company culture.

Prepare responses to potential questions 

The second (and arguably most important) step is to prepare responses to the likely questions you will be asked. One of the most used methods for preparing answers is the STAR method. STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action and Response and allows you to demonstrate your skills as opposed to just saying that you have them.

First, we need a list of possible interview questions:

1. Why do you want to work for XYZ?
2. Have you ever been in a position of leadership?
3. What will you bring to the role?
4. Can you name a time when you have had to deal with conflict during a project?
5. What are your strengths and weaknesses?
6. Can you think of a time when you have had to work under pressure to strict deadlines?
7. What are your views on teamwork and individual work?
8. How do you think you will fit into XYZ?
9. What do you want your legacy to be at this organisation?
10. Tell me about your achievements.

When thinking of possible interview questions be sure to think about the company and what specific questions they may ask. Then, use the STAR method to formulate possible answers (just be sure not to sound rehearsed on the day).

A STAR example (simplified):

Question: Have you ever been in a position of leadership?

S – During my third year of university I was part of a volunteering group which organised events for new students to help them adjust to university life.

T – My role was to help as an event assistant, but on the night of the event the host was sick and there was nobody to manage the event.

A – I volunteered to take the position as manager for the event to ensure that it went ahead smoothly.

R – It was a challenging evening where I was taken out of my comfort zone to take on a new leadership role. However, I felt it helped me grow as a leader and prepared me for situations that could occur on a daily basis in a position with XYZ. For example, just last year when XYZ hosted a charity dinner, I could use my skills to assist with similar situations.

Careers and Employment Services

Finally, if you want some more help to prepare for your next interview, just head over to the Griffith University Careers Service website for helpful tips or to book an appointment with a careers advisor.

-Hayley Payne is a final year PR & Politics student.