Complete Interview Preparation Checklist: Land Your Dream Job
Preparing for a job interview can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive checklist ensures you're ready to impress.
1 Week Before
Research the Company
- Read company website, mission, and values
- Review recent news and press releases
- Check social media presence (LinkedIn, Twitter)
- Research competitors and industry trends
- Find employee reviews on Glassdoor
Understand the Role
- Re
- Identify required skills you possess
- Prepare examples demonstrating each skill
- Research typical salary range
- Understand growth opportunities
Prepare Your Stories
- List 5
- Prepare examples of challenges overcome
- Have failure stories with lessons learned
- Practice explaining career transitions
3 Days Before
Technical Preparation
- Review technical skills mentioned in job description
- Refresh knowledge on relevant tools/technologies
- Prepare portfolio or work samples
- Test video call setup (if remote)
Question Preparation
- Write 5
- Prepare answers to common questions
- Practice out loud (record yourself)
- Prepare salary expectations answer
Day Before
Logistics
- Confirm interview time and location
- Plan route (add 15min buffer time)
- Check weather forecast
- Prepare outfit (professional, comfortable)
- Gather materials (resume copies, portfolio, notepad, pen)
Final Review
- Re
- Review company website
- Rehearse introduction
- Get good sleep
Interview Day
Morning Of
- Eat a good meal
- Arrive 10
- Turn off phone notifications
- Final appearance check
- Deep breathing exercises
During Interview
- Make eye contact
- Listen actively
- Take notes
- Ask prepared questions
- Express genuine enthusiasm
- Clarify next steps
After Interview
Same Day
- Send thank
- Note down questions asked
- Reflect on what went well
- Identify areas for improvement
Follow-Up
- Save interviewer contacts
- Track follow
- Prepare for potential next rounds
- Continue other job applications
Pro Tips
Red Flags to Notice: - Vague answers about role or team - High turnover mentioned - Unprofessional interviewer behavior - Pressure to accept offer quickly
Green Flags: - Clear career growth path discussed - Team culture emphasized - Detailed onboarding process explained - Interviewer enthusiasm
The Bottom Line
Preparation is the difference between average and exceptional interviews. Use this checklist to ensure you're fully prepared.
Remember: Interviewing is a skill. The more you prepare and practice, the better you become.