The Ultimate Interview Preparation Checklist

Preparation separates successful candidates from the rest. Here is everything you need to do before, during, and after an interview to maximize your chances.

Before the Interview

Research the company thoroughly including their mission, recent news, products, and culture. Review the job description and prepare specific examples for each requirement. Practice common interview questions out loud. Prepare 5-10 thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer. Plan your outfit and ensure it is clean and professional. Confirm the interview time, location, and format. Test your technology if it is a video interview.

During the Interview

Arrive 10-15 minutes early for in-person interviews or 5 minutes early for video calls. Bring multiple copies of your resume. Listen carefully to questions before answering. Use the STAR method for behavioral questions: Situation, Task, Action, Result. Show enthusiasm and genuine interest. Take brief notes if appropriate. Ask your prepared questions.

After the Interview

Send a thank-you email within 24 hours. Reference specific conversation points from the interview. Reiterate your interest and qualifications. Follow up after one week if you have not heard back. Reflect on what went well and what you could improve.

Common Interview Questions to Prepare

Tell me about yourself. Why are you interested in this role? What are your greatest strengths and weaknesses? Describe a challenging situation and how you handled it. Where do you see yourself in five years? Why should we hire you?

The ApplyFlow Interview Advantage

ApplyFlow generates customized interview guides based on your optimized resume and the specific job description. You get tailored talking points that align your experience with what the interviewer is looking for.

Prepare for interviews with confidence using ApplyFlow interview guides.