Interview preparation doesn't have to be complicated. These five simple steps will help you walk into any interview in person, on the phone, or on video with all the confidence and clarity you need to stand out. Whether you're interviewing for an internship or a full-time position, these tips will help you present yourself effectively and make a strong impression.
Research the Company Ahead of Your Interview
You don't need to memorize the company's entire history but spending at least 30 minutes getting familiar with their website, social media, and latest news makes all the difference. This research will give you an understanding of what they do and whether it’s somewhere you would want to work.
A helpful tip: look up your interviewer on LinkedIn. Simply knowing their role and some background about them can give you natural conversation starters. You may find out you went to the same school or shared common interests.
Before the interview, research 2-3 recent company achievements or initiatives that interest you. From a new product launch, market expansion, or winning an industry award. When you mention these during your conversation, it shows you are genuinely interested in this specific role and the company.
Rehearse Common Questions and Explaining Your Experience
You can expect many questions in every interview, so it is worth rehearsing your answers. Practicing aloud helps more than just thinking about your responses.
"Tell me about yourself" usually starts every interview off. Have a 60-90 second elevator pitch about yourself that covers where you have been, what you have done, and where you are going next.
When they ask, "Why do you want this position?," get specific. Talk about parts of the role that match what you're looking for in your career. Highlight your thoughts about why this job makes sense for you.
For "Tell me about a time you..." questions, think back to the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result. It keeps your stories focused and clear. Prepare 4-5 examples that show different skills, handling challenges, working with teams, and taking initiative, so you have got options depending on what they ask.
Go Into the Interview With Confidence
How you present yourself matters just as much as what you say. Pay attention to your body language, make eye contact, sit up straight, and if you are meeting in person, offer a firm handshake. These small actions communicate confidence and professionalism.
If you’re doing a remote interview over a video conferencing system, make sure to dress and preset yourself the same as if you were meeting in person. Wear the button down and blazer and style your hair because first impressions still take shape over Zoom.
Approach the interview as a conversation, not an interrogation. You are both figuring out if this is a good fit; they are evaluating you, and you are evaluating them. This perspective helps reduce nerves.
Speak clearly and do not rush through your thoughts. If you need a moment to think about a question, take it. Communicate when you need a moment to think. It’s appropriate to say, “I’m going to take a minute to think about this questions.” Communicating what your thinking and what you are doing helps reduce awkward pauses or misunderstandings. A thoughtful pause is better than a rushed response.
Remember, they invited you to the interview because something about your background interested them. Now it is about showing them who you are and what you bring to the table.
Follow Up After the Interview Accordingly
Do not let the conversation end when the interview is done. Send a thank you email within 24 hours while you are still fresh in their mind. Keep it short and mention something from your conversation that stood out, thank them for their time, and express your continued interest.
If you talked with multiple people, send each one their own email instead of a group message. It takes a few extra minutes but shows you are thoughtful about the process.
You Can Land Your Dream Internship!
Landing a job comes down to preparation and presentation. By researching the company, rehearsing your responses, asking thoughtful questions, communicating confidently, and following up promptly, you will position yourself as a strong candidate. The more prepared you feel, the more natural your confidence will come through.
If you are interviewing for an internship, make sure your housing situation is sorted too. Intern Housing Hub takes the stress out of finding short-term internship housing so you can focus on what really matters—nailing that interview and succeeding in your new role.