Mastering the art of the interview: strategies for success 

A human resources expert shares tips on how to crush that job interview.

In today’s competitive job market, acing an interview can make all the difference between landing your dream job and continuing the job hunt. With the right preparation and mindset, you can navigate this crucial step with confidence and poise.  

I spoke with Emma Hunt, an Ontario-based human resources generalist in the tech industry with over five years of experience. She has reviewed hundreds of resumes and conducted numerous interviews. She shared practical tips and expert advice to help you succeed in your next in-person or virtual interview.


Preparation is key 

Research the company: Before the interview, it’s important to take time to learn about the history, mission, values and recent achievements of the company you’re applying to. 

“Familiarize yourself with their products, services, and industry. This knowledge not only shows your genuine interest but also helps you tailor your responses to align with the company’s goals. For instance, review resources like the company website, reach out to someone from the company on LinkedIn, and do a quick Google search. This can provide valuable insights,” Hunt says. 

“Preparation is everything. Candidates who research our company and understand our values always stand out. They can connect their experiences to what we’re looking for, which is impressive,” she adds.  

Understand the role: Carefully review the description of the job you’re interested in. Identify the position’s key skills and the experience it requires. According to Hunt, “It is important to think about how your background matches these requirements and be prepared to discuss specific examples that demonstrate your qualifications.” 

Practice common questions: While you can’t predict every question, there are common ones you can prepare for. Hunt suggests practicing and having prepared answers for some common interview questions, such as: 

  • Tell me about yourself. 
  • Why do you want to work here? 
  • What are your strengths and weaknesses? 
  • Describe a challenging situation and how you handled it. 


Effective communication 

Be clear and concise: During the interview, articulate your thoughts clearly and concisely. Avoid rambling and stay on topic. The STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) can help structure your responses effectively. 

“Confidence comes from preparation. Practice answering questions out loud and get comfortable with the format of virtual interviews,” Hunt explains.  “This reduces anxiety and helps candidates present themselves better.” Ask questions: Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer. This shows your interest in the role and helps you gather information to determine if the company is right for you. 

“Remember, as much as you are being interviewed, you are also interviewing the company. You want to see if the job and culture are the right fit for you, and by asking key questions back, you can see if it is a fit,” Hunt says.  

Gabby Altman
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Gabby is a contributing writer for a variety of publications. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her traveling the world, trying new food and hanging out with her puppy named Mochi.

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