Step 1: Start with the real problem
Most people prep for interviews like they’re studying for an exam. They cram, memorize lines, and rehearse until they sound like a bad robot. Then they get one question they didn’t expect… and everything falls apart.
Real talk: your goal isn’t to remember perfect lines. Your goal is to show you’re the right person for the job.
That means: less “script”, more clarity. Less panic, more plan.
Step 2: Know your own story
If you only prep one thing, prep this. A lot of interview anxiety comes from trying to sound impressive. Don’t. Just know your story clearly.
Jot down quick bullet points for:
- Where you started (school, first job, first real experience)
- What you’re good at (skills, strengths, things people rely on you for)
- What you’ve actually done (projects, wins, problems you solved)
- Why this job makes sense as your next move
One time I coached someone who kept stumbling over basic questions. Turned out he was trying to memorize “perfect” answers he found online. Once he dropped that and just told his real story, he nailed the interview.
Step 3: Learn the company in 10 minutes
You don’t need to stalk every corner of their website. But you also can’t walk in blind. Here’s a simple company research checklist:
- Homepage: what do they brag about first?
- About / mission page: what words do they use to describe themselves?
- Job description: what skills and responsibilities show up the most?
- Social media or recent news: what are they talking about right now?
You’re not collecting trivia. You’re looking for a few sentences you can connect your story to: “I noticed you’re focused on X — that really lines up with my experience in Y.”
Step 4: Prep your “Big 5” answers
Most interviews are just different versions of the same few questions. If you’re ready for these five, you’re in solid shape:
- “Tell me about yourself.”
- “Why do you want this role / company?”
- “Tell me about a challenge you overcame.”
- “What’s your biggest strength?”
- “Do you have any questions for us?”
Keep each answer short — around 30–60 seconds. No life story. No TED Talk. Just:
- Headline: the main point
- 1 example: a quick story or proof
If you want to go further, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for your challenge and strength questions.
Step 5: Prep 3 smart questions to ask them
When they say, “Do you have any questions for us?” that’s not a courtesy. They’re still evaluating you. “No questions” can look like “No real interest.”
Here are three solid options:
- “What does success look like in the first 90 days?”
- “What challenges is the team currently facing?”
- “How do people in this role typically grow over the next year or two?”
Questions like these show you’re thinking beyond “please hire me” and into “how can I actually help?”
Step 6: Build a simple pre-interview routine
Nerves are normal. What matters is whether you let them run the show. Instead of hoping you feel calm, create a 5–10 minute routine you use every time.
For example:
- 3 slow deep breaths (in for 4 seconds, out for 6)
- Scan your notes: your story, the role, your Big 5 answers
- One positive line: “I’m prepared. I’m here to see if this is a good fit — on both sides.”
Confident people don’t feel zero nerves. They just have a system for handling them.
Step 7: Plan the logistics so you’re not rushing
Nothing destroys your focus like running late, getting lost, or fighting with your webcam two minutes before the call.
Run through this quick list:
- In person: know the route, parking, and how long it takes. Aim to arrive 10–15 minutes early.
- Online: test your internet, webcam, mic, and meeting link ahead of time.
- Materials: have a copy of your resume, any requested documents, and a notepad + pen ready.
Step 8: End strong — and follow up
Don’t fade out at the end like your battery died. When things wrap up, you can say something simple like:
“Thanks for your time today. Based on everything I’ve heard, I’m confident I can bring real value to this role.”
After the interview, send a short thank-you message within 24 hours and note:
- One thing you appreciated about the conversation
- One line reinforcing your interest and fit
Quick recap
You don’t need to become a different person for an interview. You just need a clean routine:
- Know your story
- Understand the role and company at a basic but solid level
- Prep your Big 5 answers
- Have 2–3 smart questions ready
- Use a simple routine to calm your nerves
- Lock in logistics so you’re not flustered
- End strong and follow up