Be assertive at a job interview – tips for preparing for a job interview

Preparing for a job interview should start by finding out about the company, its values, goals, achievements and changes in the organisation. This shows that you are interested in the company and familiar with the operator you wish to become an employee of.

Take advantage of LinkedIn and find out if you have any old colleagues working for the company, for example. If you find people you know, take advantage of your networks and find out what the company expects of its employees and what qualities are particularly valued in the company.

Review the job description and be prepared to explain why you are the right person for the task.

The interviewer has already read your CV, so don't read it to them again in the job interview. Instead, be prepared to explain any gaps and share things that are not mentioned in your résumé.

An important part of getting ready for a job interview is anticipating and preparing for difficult questions. In your answers, try to give concrete examples of your professional skills and achievements. What have you learned from the mistakes you’ve made? It is important to identify and recognise your own development targets.

You should get a good night’s sleep before the day of the interview. You don’t want to be yawning in the middle of a job interview.

This cannot be emphasised enough. Be at the interview at least 10–15 minutes before the start so that you can arrive calmly and gather your thoughts before the interview.

When nervous, the applicant might end up talking about something else instead of answering the question itself. Remember, the interviewer is on your side and wants you to succeed. So try to forget about feeling nervous and just be yourself. Focus on listening carefully to the question that was asked and answer it.

Ask for the contact details of all the interviewers so that you can remember their names better and know who to contact after the interview.

If you agree on follow-up measures with your interviewer, take care of your part as soon as possible. You improve your chances by demonstrating your commitment.