How to Prepare for Your Next Interview: Insights from 20 Years in Recruiting
Over the last two decades as an executive recruiter, I have spoken with thousands of individuals across every professional level from entry-level roles to Director and C-level positions.
Through this experience, I’ve learned exactly what hiring managers are looking for. While expectations shift slightly as you move into executive leadership, the core of a successful interview remains the same: preparation.
Whether you have interviewed 100 people yourself or are just starting out, being the one answering the questions is a completely different skill set. Here are my top tips for preparing for your next big opportunity.
# 1. Actually, read the job description (yes, really)
- Match your experience to the responsibilities: Review each item the company says you will be doing and prepare to say, “In my prior experience, I’ve done this and describe how and when”.
- Match your experience to the requirements: If the description asks for specific experience, such as SAP, be ready to explain exactly where and how you used that skill.
- Job Description Nuance: Every job posting and company is different; ensure you are speaking to the specific requirements of that individual posting.
# 2. No matter the level, you need to practice
It is a common mistake for experienced managers to assume they don’t need to prepare because they interview others regularly. However, the skill of evaluating a candidate is entirely different from the skill of being one. No matter how many interviews you have conducted from the head of the table, you still need to practice your own delivery.
# 3. Practice your Interview answers out loud
- Hear Yourself: Practice your answers out loud so you can hear your pace and inflection.
- Record Video: If you are heading into a video interview, record yourself. This allows you to monitor your facial expressions, your tone, and your pace.
- Rehearse the Basic Interview Questions: Make sure you have practiced your answers to standard interview questions out loud before you arrive.
#4. Let the interviewer lead (especially if you’re a leader)
- Avoid “Bulldozing”: Be careful not to take over the meeting or “bulldozer” the person sitting across from you.
#5. Answer the question first (then add context)
- Lead with the answer: It’s that simple. If the question is yes/no, start with yes/no in the first sentence—then explain. Even if it is not yes/no, answer the question within your first sentence. Then provide more detail and insight.
- Don’t take the interviewer “around the block” with a long story only to give the actual answer at the very end.
I hope these tips help you feel more confident heading into your next interview. If you have any questions or would like to reach out, please use the contact information below.
Good luck on your interview!
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About The Resource Link
For almost two decades, The Resource Link has strategically placed Accounting, Finance, & Human Resource talent with some of the best companies in Arizona! We consult with our hiring managers and candidates to dive into the best solutions and outcomes and we provide advice and feedback along the way. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions or just pick up the phone! We would love to hear from you to help you build the best team or find the best career.
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