Get ready to interview

At job interviews, employers will ask about your experience and skills, and observe your personality. Your job is to assess the job opportunity and company. Successful interviews require some preparation and practice. Here’s a summary of how to get ready.

1. Research the employer and job

   Research will prepare you to answer their questions and show your enthusiasm and intent. It will also inform you about the strengths and weaknesses of the organization, and help you form questions to ask the interviewer. Learn about employer research.

2. Practice your answers to common interview questions, on paper and out loud

   It’s often difficult to come up with great responses during an interview. Practicing your answers to typical interview questions will help you think through how to respond clearly and intentionally. Include real-life examples from your education and work experience that illustrate your skills and how you handle challenges. It can be helpful to practice out loud with a friend or on a free interview practice website. Or request a free mock interview at an American Job Center.

3. Make a list of questions to ask during the interview

   When an interview is winding down and you are asked if you have questions, it’s tempting to not ask any. But employers can see that as a sign that you’re not interested, or you’re not a curious person. It’s best to be prepared with some questions to ask.

   Write up questions for the interviewer that will demonstrate your interest in the job and the company. Refer to information you learned in your research and ask a question related to it, such as “I read that the company is working on Project X. How would this job be involved in the Project?” Also ask questions about the job you will be expected to perform, such as:

   • Can you tell me what a typical day is like in this job?
   • How are responsibilities and performance measured in this role? By whom?
   • Please describe any training and professional development opportunities that would be offered through this job.
   • What would you say are the organization's top priorities for the next 1-3 years?
   • Could you summarize what you see as the greatest challenges in this role and how the organization supports employees in meeting them?

4. On the day of the interview

   • Plan your schedule so you arrive 10-15 minutes early, if in person. If the interview is online, prepare your space and equipment so you’re ready to sign on 10-15 minutes early.
   • Dress appropriately for the workplace and the job.
   • Bring a notebook and pen but leave your water bottle or coffee at home or in your car.
   • Mute your phone.

5. During the interview

   • Be confident, but let the interviewer start the dialogue. Send a positive message with your body language.
   • If the interviewer extends their hand, shake hands firmly. Make eye contact and listen carefully. Smile and welcome all questions with openness.
   • Give honest, direct answers. It’s OK if you need time to respond to some questions. If you don't understand a question, ask for it to be repeated or clarified.
   • Avoid saying negative things about your past employers. It’s fine to describe how you turned a negative situation into a positive one but avoid putting blame on the employer.
   • Typically, you will be offered a chance to ask questions near the end. Make note of their responses if needed.
   • When the interviewer indicates they are wrapping up, ask about their next steps in the hiring process. If you want the job, express your enthusiasm. Restate any strengths and experiences that you might not have emphasized earlier.

6. Send a thank-you email or letter after the interview

   • Write a note right away and try to send it within 24 hours after the interview. Even if you don’t think you were a top candidate, it’s not uncommon for candidates to drop out and you could be hired.
   • Address it to the interviewer by name and title; send thanks to everyone you met with.
   • Thank them for the interview and express interest in the job. Restate your key qualifications and skills, add relevant background you haven’t mentioned.
   • Note any websites, books, articles, or contacts you said you’d follow up with them about.

View a Sample Thank-You Note.