You’ve filled in your CV, you’ve been called for interview and now it’s time to show who you are and what you can do.
It could be your first job, an internal interview as you work your way up the company or your dream role.
How you perform will have a direct effect on the rest of your life – no pressure.
Your CV gets you in the door, your interview allows you to stay. It’s that simple.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to prepare, present, and perform at your best.
From job interview tips and interview techniques, to understanding common interview questions and the STAR method, we’ll arm you with the tools and confidence to succeed.
This article is designed to be your go-to resource — especially if you’re in the US job market — and reflects real experience, expert insights, and proven strategies used by career coaches and hiring managers alike.
Table of Contents
- How to Prepare for Job Interviews
- Job Interview Techniques That Work
- How to Answer Interview Questions Confidently
- Using the STAR Method in Interviews
- Interview Body Language Tips
- What to Wear to a Job Interview in the UK
- Virtual Interview Tips
- Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Real-Life Examples and Case Studies
- Interview Follow-Up Tips
- Final Takeaway and Next Steps
How to Prepare for a Job Interview
Proper preparation is half the battle won. Here’s how to get started:
1. Research the Company
- Visit the company’s official website, LinkedIn page, and read its recent press releases.
- Understand its mission, values, products/services, and culture.
- Prepare to discuss how your goals align with theirs.
2. Understand the Role
- Before interviews, review the job description in detail.
- Highlight key responsibilities and required skills.
- Match these with your own experience and strengths.
3. Practice Common Interview Questions
Examples include:
- “Tell me about yourself”
- “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”
- “Why do you want this role?”
Prepare concise answers using the STAR method (covered below).
4. Prepare Your Questions
Interviewers expect you to ask questions. Consider:
- What’s a typical day like in this role?
- How do you measure success in the first 3 months?
- What are the team’s biggest challenges right now?
5. Logistics
- Confirm the time, location (or video platform), and interviewer’s name.
- If in person, plan your route and aim to arrive 10 minutes early.
- If virtual, test your tech: internet, camera, and mic.
Job Interview Techniques That Work
Active Listening
Let the interviewer complete their question before responding. Nod, maintain eye contact, and engage naturally.
Mirror Their Energy
In interviews, if the tone is formal, stay professional. If relaxed, it’s okay to match that energy while staying respectful.
Structure Your Responses
Use the Problem-Action-Result (PAR) or STAR method to give logical, memorable answers.
Sell Yourself Subtly
Back up claims with examples:
- Don’t say: “I’m great at team leadership.”
- Do say: “In my last role, I led a team of 8, improving productivity by 20% in 6 months.”
Be Honest — With Tact
If asked about gaps in employment or a lack of experience in a certain area, focus on what you learned or how you’re addressing it.
How to Answer Interview Questions Confidently
Answering questions well isn’t about rehearsed scripts — it’s about storytelling, self-awareness, and matching your experience with what the employer needs.
Types of Questions You’ll Encounter:
- Competency-based: “Give an example of when you worked under pressure.”
- Situational: “How would you handle a client disagreement?”
- Motivational: “Why do you want to work here?”
Top Tip:
Practice with a friend or use video recordings to critique your delivery, tone, and content.
Use this framework:
- Understand the question (don’t be afraid to ask for clarification).
- Structure your response.
- Highlight results and impact.
- Keep it concise — aim for 1-2 minutes per answer.
Using the STAR Method in Interviews
The STAR method helps you respond to competency questions in interviews clearly and effectively.
S – Situation: Set the scene
T – Task: What was your responsibility?
A – Action: What did you do?
R – Result: What was the outcome?
Example
Q: Tell me about a time you solved a problem.
A:
- S: “At my last job, a supplier missed a critical delivery.”
- T: “I was responsible for ensuring the product launch wasn’t delayed.”
- A: “I found a local supplier, renegotiated pricing, and coordinated overnight shipping.”
- R: “The launch went ahead as planned and saved the company £12,000.”
Interview Body Language Tips
Studies suggest that 55% of communication is non-verbal. Here’s how to project confidence:
- Handshake (if in person): Firm but not crushing.
- Posture: Sit upright, shoulders back.
- Eye Contact: Maintain it, but don’t stare.
- Gestures: Use hands naturally but sparingly.
- Smile: It creates warmth and approachability.
What to Wear to a Job Interview
Dress standards vary by industry, but here are some general rules:
- Corporate roles: Formal business attire (suit, tie, blouse, tailored dress).
- Creative/tech roles: Smart casual is usually fine — neat trousers, button-down shirt, or smart dress.
- Retail/hospitality: Uniform-like clothing (e.g. polo shirts, black trousers) often works well.
Tip: When in doubt, slightly overdress. Appearance is part of the first impression.
Virtual Interview Tips
With remote work on the rise, virtual interviews are increasingly common.
Setup:
- Choose a quiet, well-lit location.
- Use a neutral background.
- Position your camera at eye level.
On the Day:
- Join the meeting 5 minutes early.
- Speak clearly and smile.
- Avoid looking at yourself on screen — focus on the camera.
- Keep notes handy (but don’t read from them).
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Avoiding mistakes is just as important as giving the right answers.
1. Rambling
Keep answers structured and concise.
2. Poor Research
Generic responses about the company show lack of interest.
3. Being Negative
Don’t speak badly about former employers, even if asked.
4. Not Asking Questions
This can suggest disinterest or lack of initiative.
5. Overconfidence
Confidence is key, but arrogance turns interviewers off.
Real-Life Examples and Case Studies
Case Study 1: From Redundancy to Rehire
John, a marketing manager, was made redundant during COVID-19.
He studied interview techniques using YouTube tutorials and practiced the STAR method weekly. After six interviews, he landed a senior marketing role with a 15% salary increase.
Case Study 2: The Power of Follow-Up
Emma, a law graduate, emailed a follow-up message within two hours of an interview. She thanked the panel, addressed a question she fumbled, and reiterated her enthusiasm. The hiring manager later said it was the email that secured her the role.
Case Study 3: What Not to Do
Mark, a sales executive, showed up in a hoodie for a banking interview. He also answered “Why do you want this job?” with “It pays well.” He didn’t get a second interview.
These examples highlight the importance of preparation, professionalism, and polish.
Interview Follow-Up Techniques
How you follow up can reinforce a strong impression — or fix a weak one.
Email Structure:
- Thank them for the opportunity.
- Reaffirm interest in the role.
- Clarify anything you wish you’d answered better.
- Keep it short — 3–5 sentences is enough.
Example:
Subject: Thank You – [Your Name], [Job Title] Interview
Dear [Interviewer Name],
Thank you for taking the time to meet today. I enjoyed learning more about the role and the team. Our conversation confirmed my enthusiasm for the position and how my skills in [relevant area] can contribute to your goals.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Final Takeaway and Next Steps
Mastering job interviews isn’t about being perfect. It’s about preparation, self-awareness, and knowing how to communicate your value clearly. To recap:
- Research the company and role thoroughly.
- Practice structured answers using the STAR method.
- Watch your body language and dress appropriately.
- Avoid common mistakes like rambling or underpreparing.
- Follow up professionally to leave a lasting impression.
Whether you’re actively applying or just planning ahead, bookmark this page and revisit these tips before every interview.
Next Step: Browse current job vacancies or visit WhatJobs Career Advice for more expert insights.
Looking to go even deeper with your interview prep? These expert-backed resources offer trusted advice, tools, and insights tailored for job seekers in the U.S.:
- CareerOneStop – Interview Tips
A resource from the U.S. Department of Labor featuring sample questions, tips, and follow-up strategies. - Glassdoor – How to Prepare for an Interview
Real interview questions and company-specific insights submitted by candidates. - The Muse – Job Interview Preparation Guide
Step-by-step advice with a focus on behavioural questions and confidence-building. - U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Career Outlook
Data-driven insights into job trends, employment projections, and career planning. - LinkedIn – Interview Success Tips
Advice from hiring professionals and career coaches to help you stand out.
These links offer additional context and support, whether you’re facing your first interview or aiming to sharpen your technique for a competitive role.
FAQs
What are the 5 C’s of interviewing?
The 5 C’s of interviewing are Competence, Confidence, Communication, Compatibility, and Commitment—five traits that help candidates leave a strong impression. Competence proves you have the skills and experience needed to do the job well. Confidence shows self-assurance and helps build trust with the interviewer. Communication reflects how clearly and professionally you share your thoughts, both in what you say and how you say it.
Compatibility highlights how well you’d fit with the team and company culture. Commitment shows your interest in the role and your willingness to grow with the organisation.
When combined, these qualities give employers a clear picture of your potential and suitability for the job. Preparing examples that show each of these traits in action can make you more memorable and improve your chances of success.
What is the 80/20 rule in interviewing?
The 80/20 rule in interviewing means the candidate should speak for around 80% of the time, with the interviewer speaking for the remaining 20%.
This gives the interviewer enough information to assess your skills, experience, and personality.
For candidates, it’s about giving clear, relevant answers without going off track or talking too much.
The goal is to share enough to highlight your value while still letting the interviewer control the flow and ask follow-up questions.
To apply this well, focus on structured, well-paced responses, stick to the point, and avoid long-winded answers.
Be ready to take the lead when answering but stay responsive to the interviewer’s cues.
What is the 10 second rule in interviewing?
The 10-second rule in interviewing refers to the idea that first impressions are formed quickly—often within the first 10 seconds of meeting someone.
In an interview, this means the way you enter the room, greet the interviewer, shake hands (if appropriate), make eye contact, and carry yourself can heavily influence how you’re perceived.
Even before you start answering questions, the interviewer is already forming an opinion based on your appearance, body language, and demeanor.
To make the most of those crucial 10 seconds, arrive on time, dress appropriately, smile genuinely, and show confidence without arrogance. A strong, positive start sets the tone for the rest of the interview and helps establish early rapport.
