How to prepare for a job interview

So, you’ve been invited to interview for your dream job. It can be daunting, and there is often a lot of competition for the most exciting or sought-after roles – so how do you set yourself apart from other candidates.

With good interview preparation, your experience, knowledge and personality can truly shine. Here are our top job interview tips and advice, grounded in real insight and tailored for UK jobseekers.

1. Know what they are expecting and what you can offer

Re-read and really interrogate the job description to make sure you know exactly what the company is looking for in their new hire. The more you can understand the interviewer’s expectations, the more you can make sure your answers meet or exceed them.

You also need to know your CV inside and out, as you never know what the interviewer might pick up on. Not only is it important to refresh your memory of how you presented yourself, you can also think about elements of your CV that fit with the job description, allowing you to offer the most relevant examples and experience during the interview. This is the essence of solid interview preparation and a key part of your interview preparation checklist.

2. Be prepared to give specific examples

Being able to bring past experiences into the present is crucial in an interview. What are your most significant achievements? Will they illustrate key technical and soft skills the interviewer is looking for?

You don’t always have to have done the same thing previously, but you should be prepared to talk about something similar, the skills you used, and how you can apply that experience and skills to the task at hand.

It is not always easy to remember everything you have done previously, sometimes it can be helpful to prepare to talk about three or four very strong examples that show multiple skills and could be used as examples for a wide range of questions.

Even if your experiences don’t match the role perfectly, showing how your abilities are transferable demonstrates resourcefulness and clarity in thought. These are often the tips for a successful interview that candidates overlook.

3. Style as well as substance

Your personality is just as importance as your technical abilities, and it is important that it shines through even if you are nervous. Simple things like asking the interviewer how they are or how their day is going can be a great opportunity to show more of yourself, as well as your soft skills. First impressions matter, so try to think specifically about how you will appear in the first thirty seconds of the interview. Make sure you’re dressed appropriately and start with a smile. It is also important to think about what else may be seen during the interview, so choose a neat, undistracting background if possible and a smart notepad if you have notes.

4. Remember your reasons

Be prepared for commonly asked interview questions. It is almost certain that you will be asked tell me about yourself, why did you leave your last job? and why you are interested in the role? at some point during the process. It is important to be respectful and positive about your current employer. Try to talk about a limitation of your current role and why you think working with the new company will address that issue. If you’re telling the interviewer why you want to work there, use specific points that are unique to their organisation.

5. Show your interest

Interviews are a two-way street. You are being interviewed for the position, but you are also assessing if the business is somewhere you want to work.

Asking questions, whether they are about the role, the business or even about the interviewer’s experience of working at the company, can help you work out if a role is right for you, and shows interest in the business that will set you ahead of other candidates.

Knowing what to research about a company before an interview also allows you to shape smarter questions and deeper conversation during the interview itself.

6. Know your terms

Be prepared to give details about your salary expectations and notice period, and to do so with confidence. It shows the employer that you have seriously thought about joining the organisation and you will be more comfortable in the interview if you have already thought about what you want. Instead of giving a specific salary, give a range that starts above your bottom line – it helps the employer measure their expectations against your own.

And remember, if you’ve made it to the interview stage, you are starting in a strong position. Those shortlisting applicants must have seen something in you and felt that you had what they were looking for, so you should be confident about your chances. Don’t worry, you’re going to be great.

Preparing for an interview: Frequently asked questions

What should be on my interview preparation checklist?

Preparation should include reviewing the job description closely, planning examples that align with the role, choosing appropriate attire, confirming logistics (venue or video platform), and preparing thoughtful questions. Following up promptly with a thank-you note can also make a lasting positive impression.

What’s the right way to introduce myself in a interview?

Begin with a friendly greeting, state your name and professional background clearly, then describe what excites you about the role. For example: “Hello, I’m Alex. I have a background in marketing with a focus on digital campaigns, and I’m particularly interested in this role because of your company’s innovative work in the UK tech space.”

What things should I avoid doing in an interview?

Avoid showing up late, speaking negatively about previous employers, using vague or unfocused answers, or failing to ask any questions. Underpreparing (such as not researching the company) is one of the most avoidable missteps you can make.

Are you thinking about leaving your current role? The recruitment experts at Robert Half can support you every step of the way, with advice on the resignation process, expert job matching, and helping you through the interview process. Upload your CV now, or start looking for open roles.