I guess this should help someone out there: Culled from https://www.breanch.com/how-to-prepare-for-an-interview/

An interview is an opportunity to convince a recruiter you are the best person for the job. Most times, you have your first physical meeting with your employer during an interview. Thus, it is a chance to make the first impression. In order to make the most of your interview, you need to prepare well ahead of time. Even if you had a short notice for the interview, you don’t have to panic. The following tips will help you prepare for your interview

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1. Carry out a Research on the Organization:
You need to know as much information as you can about the organization. Most interviewers throw in questions about the organization during the interview. The interviewer simply wants to know whether you did your homework before coming for the interview. You don’t want a situation where you will fail when you are asked questions about the organization. You need to know the following about the organization:

The registered name of the organization (some organizations use brand names)
The goals and objectives of the company
Major products and services the company offers
Know the names of the key people holding key management positions in the company. This includes the CEO, Chief Information Officer (CIO) and other key managers in the company.
Also, know the company’s core values.
How do you Get This Information:
First, you visit the organization’s website. Almost all the information you need about an organization can be found on the company’s website. You will see details of the company’s goals and objectives on the ‘About us’ page.
Look out for latest news updates on the company and recent press release if any.
Finally, you can make use of tools like CareerSearch and Vault to get details about an organization.
2. Review the Job Posting:
This is yet another time to review the job posting before the actual interview. You need to go through the job description once more. Point out the skills, qualities and qualification that the company need from the employee. Crosscheck the list with your skills, qualities, and qualifications. Ensure that you have all the required qualifications outlined in the job description. This should not make you second-guess your worth; it is to ensure that you meet the company’s requirements.



3. Conduct a Pre-interview Research:
You need to get enough information on what the company expects from you for the interview. You need to find out the person to conduct the interview. (Most companies don’t reveal details of the interviewer). Also find out if the interview is a physical/ offline interview or an online interview. The location for the interview, the time schedule, and dress code are other important details you need to know. You may need to call the organization’s HR or the recruiter to get these details.

4. Have a Pre-interview Practice at Home:
There is need to conduct a pre-interview practice session at home before going for the interview. You can practice with a family member or friend. Make a list of probable interview questions you will be asked during the interview. Your friend should pose as the interviewer while you maintain your position. Answer the questions as if you are in the actual interview. You need to repeat this practice a couple of times to build the confidence you need for the actual interview. During the pre-interview session review the basic interview etiquette and be conscious of your body language.

Also read: Complete Guide on How to Write a Resume That Gets You Hired

5. Get Out Materials for the Interview:
You don’t want a situation where you forget a vital document needed for the interview. You need to get these materials ready days ahead of the interview. Place them in a document pack and keep it in a place you will see them. It could preferable be on top of the central table in your living room.

Documents you need to keep ready for your interview include;

Resume (keep extra copies)
Portfolio of your previous jobs
Professional binder or notepad with a pe
A list of references
You can also include a list of questions to ask the interviewer.
6. Prepare your Appearance:
Your appearance matters a lot during an interview. Some organizations give points for appearance. You need to get your clothes and accessories ready well ahead of time. Remember, your clothes give a first impression about you. Ensure that you dress formally to the interview. Get your clothes ready. Wash, iron and hang the clothes you will wear to the interview. Also, you need to groom your hair. For men, a neat haircut is a must. For the ladies, you should ensure that your hairstyle is formal and tidy. No bright hair color.

Also read: How to Write A Cover Letter: Complete Guide for Beginners

7. Sleep Well:
Most people fail to sleep well the night before the interview as a result of anxiety. The night before the interview, ensure you go to bed early, and get at least eight hours of sleep. You will wake up calm and refreshed to face the day.

8. Punctuality Matters:
Ensure that you get to the interview venue at least 15 minutes before the time scheduled for the interview. This will help you recall your thoughts, and maintain the calmness needed to Ace your interview.

Culled from: https://www.breanch.com