By: The Capella University Editorial Team
Reading Time: 4 minutes
Strong interview prep includes researching the employer, practicing common and behavioral answers, preparing your own questions to ask, testing virtual-interview tech, discussing compensation and following up. Candidates who prepare can enter the interview calm and confident. Just follow these steps.
Know your audience before you walk in
Research the company, industry and specific role before the interview. This research shapes your answers and helps you prepare specific questions for the interviewer. If you know who’s interviewing you, look them up on LinkedIn; understanding their background shows a level of preparation that stands out. If the interview is virtual, treat the setup like part of the prep: test your camera and audio in advance, find a quiet, well-lit spot and have a copy of your resume and notes nearby, just as you would on paper for an in-person interview.
Prepare your answers, but don’t sound scripted
Draft answers to the questions you expect, then practice saying them aloud without memorizing them word for word. An answer that reads well on paper can sound stiff aloud, and interviewers may notice when a response feels rehearsed. Aim for 30–60 seconds per response and time yourself as you practice.
Master the questions you can predict
A handful of questions come up in almost every interview. Here’s how to handle the toughest ones:
- “Tell me about yourself.” This isn’t small talk – it’s part of the interview. Give a short answer that covers your current role, relevant experience, key strengths and the type of role you want next. Connect those details to the job so the interviewer can see why your background fits the position. For example: “I’m a graphic designer who specializes in retail packaging. I’ve worked with Fortune 500 clients and built most of my business through referrals. I’m now looking for an in-house role with a company whose values match my own.”
- “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” Be specific, not generic. Instead of “I’m adaptable,” say “I can quickly shift focus when something urgent comes up – for example, [specific situation].” For weaknesses, name a real one and immediately follow it with how you manage it. If you’re not sure how to articulate your strengths, an assessment like Gallup’s CliftonStrengths (formerly StrengthsFinder) can help you find the language.
- “Tell me about a time when...” These behavioral questions ask for a specific example, not a general answer. Use the STAR method to organize each answer: describe the Situation, explain the Task, state the Action you took and share the Result. Prepare two or three stories in advance, such as resolving a conflict, meeting a deadline or leading a project, then adapt them to the question.
- “Why did you leave your last job?” Give a brief, factual reason for leaving, then explain what you want in your next role. For example: “My company downsized, and my position was eliminated. I am looking for a role where I can use my experience in [relevant skill] and contribute to [relevant goal].”
- “Why should we hire you?” Summarize the experience and strengths that match the job’s main needs, then name the result you can help deliver. Avoid generic answers such as “I’m the right candidate.” For example: “My experience managing retail packaging projects would help me coordinate launches and meet production deadlines for this role.”
Come with your own smart questions
An interview is a two-way conversation – you’re evaluating the company just as much as they’re evaluating you. Asking thoughtful questions shows you’ve done your homework and helps you decide if the role is right for you. Prepare at least five questions in advance, since you may only get to ask a few:
- About the role: What would a typical day look like? What are the team’s priorities for the first 90 days? How are performance expectations set and reviewed?
- About the company: What is the company’s biggest priority over the next year? What do you enjoy about working here? What challenges does the team face, and what support is available to address them?
Ask about compensation and benefits during the interview process. If the employer has not covered them, ask when the salary range, benefits and any other relevant terms will be discussed. You can also follow up with HR afterward.
Close by asking, ‘What are the next steps in the process?’ Ask when the employer expects to make a decision and whether there is anything else they need from you. The answers give you a timeline for following up.
Avoid these common missteps
- Don’t lie. If an interviewer asks about an employment gap or a difficult situation, answer honestly and briefly.
- Don’t skip the homework. Even for a last-minute interview, research the employer, the role and the interviewer when that information is available.
- Don’t undersell yourself. Be ready to speak clearly about your accomplishments – the resume only tells part of the story.
- Don’t dress casually. Keep it professional and arrive a few minutes early so you can settle in. Before a video interview, choose a quiet location and test your internet connection, camera and microphone.
- Don’t sound desperate. Wanting the job is fine; sounding like you need it can work against you.
- Don’t overlook the basics. Silence your phone completely, listen respectfully, consider taking notes and always thank your interviewer at the end.
