5 keys in preparing for a job interview

By Gabriela Gamboa, psychologist.

Preparing for a job interview is simpler than we imagine. Although it's natural to feel nervous or anxious, it's crucial to be prepared whether we've been waiting for this opportunity or if we're about to enter the workforce. In this article, we'll explore five steps that will help you understand what recruiters are looking for during this process.

The interview is a key moment for both the candidate and the company, which prepares by assigning expert recruiters who have carefully studied the profiles and have prepared specific questions to get to know the candidate as well as possible. It's important to remember that we've already passed the first filter. Now, with greater confidence and focused on reaching our ultimate goal, we must consider the following steps:

1. Review the vacancy we're applying for. The company's job posting will guide us on what they're looking for. There are keywords placed in the advertisements that can indicate whether they are seeking a professional to perform specific tasks or to be part of a team that carries them out. We can recall situations in which we implemented these competencies to have them clear in case they are asked about in the interview. Additionally, it's essential to be clear on which aspects of what they are looking for match our profile. We shouldn't arrive at the interview without information that allows us to answer questions like: 'Why do you believe you would be a good candidate for this position?' 'What skills do you have that could contribute to it?'
2. Researching the company. The question 'What do you know about us?' has become common and aims to gauge our interest in the company's business and the role we would play in it. Both aspects demonstrate our professional maturity. It's important to gather information about the company, what products or services they offer, whether it's a local company, what is said about it on social media, and what image its organizational culture, values, and principles project. This will allow us not only to understand the type of company we're dealing with but also to ask informed questions at the end of the interview.
3. Personal presentation is key. Regardless of the company's dress code or whether employees usually dress casually, we must remember that we are not yet part of the company and that the first impression is fundamental. It's important to dress according to the business sector, avoiding overly tight clothing, deep necklines, or sheer fabrics. In any case, maintaining impeccable personal hygiene is essential and avoiding wearing flashy accessories that may distract the interviewer. Additionally, we must remember the importance of punctuality, which will allow us to arrive calmly, observe the culture of the place, and enter the interview with confidence.
4. Before arriving at the location, it's important to remember that we are still in the preparation process and that, in the eyes of those interviewing us, we are unknown individuals. Therefore, punctuality is indispensable. Arriving before the agreed time will allow us to locate the place, parking (if not available), walk without hurry, calm our nerves, and avoid any mishaps that may arise. It will also give us a few minutes to mentally review the previous steps and enter the interview with confidence and preparation.
5. Preparing does not mean inventing a speech or exaggerating our achievements. We should focus on telling our story clearly and concisely. We must remember that recruiters invite us to the interview because they want to get to know us better. It's important to answer questions directly, using accessible language and avoiding giving more information than required. If it's necessary to use technical terms, we must ensure that the interviewer is following us and, if not, provide a brief explanation.

When preparing for an interview, we must be authentic, inform ourselves about the position and the company, and make a good impression in all aspects. Even if the position is not for us on that occasion, leaving a good impression can open doors for future recruitment processes or referrals. It's important to remember that recruiters build networks that allow them to access the best talent. These tips should be adapted to each circumstance, for example, if the interview is virtual rather than in person.