Out of all the seemingly weird questions that may be darted at you during an interview, the question about your interview preparation is sure to top the charts!
This question is bound to leave you overwhelmed, but every question has its answer, including this one. This article will guide you on how to tackle the situation maturely and not get overwhelmed at all.
Let’s understand the psyche of an interviewer who asks the question, “How did you prepare for the interview?”
There are two sides to this seemingly innocuous question:
1. An interviewer wishes to check if you were sincere enough to prepare well in advance for the interview and to what extent you have prepared.
They want to assess your seriousness toward the job search, this particular job, and your career as a whole.
2. An interviewer would also try to gauge if you are spontaneous in decision-making and can act impromptu.
Depending on the job profile and its specific requirements, an interviewer may either like or dislike your level of preparedness. Let’s understand this concept with the help of an example:
Interviewer: “Have you prepared for this interview? How did you make your interview preparations?”
Interviewee 1: “Well, I made quite an effort to do that. I browsed through the website of the organization, learned about the various products it offers, and understood the specific roles and responsibilities of the separate teams.
Moreover, I conducted a competitor analysis to ascertain the market share, business model, and revenue comparison of your competitors.
Lastly, I tried to reason out how I would be able to bring my expertise to the table while bridging the need gap in new markets and retaining our market position.”
Interviewee 2: “I browsed through the online product catalog and familiarized myself with the specific features of each one of them.
I am all set to differentiate the company products from that of competitors’ and sell across.”
Though the first interviewee seems to be well-prepared and well-read, both interviewees have an equal chance of getting selected.
Why? If the interviewer is looking for a Business Strategist or a Marketing Sales Manager, then perhaps the first interviewee would be best suited. However, if they are looking for a Sales Executive in the FMCG sector, they would prefer someone who is more spontaneous and “street-smart.” Thus, in this case, interviewee 2 would be selected.
By understanding the motives behind this question and tailoring your response based on the specific job requirements, you can showcase your preparedness and suitability for the role.
Remember, being sincere and demonstrating your ability to adapt to different situations can significantly impact the interviewer’s perception of your candidacy.
Enhancing Your Interview Preparation: Tips and Strategies
Preparing for an interview is crucial to present yourself as a well-informed and qualified candidate. To help you navigate this important phase, this section provides valuable insights and practical tips to enhance your interview preparation.
By following these strategies, you can confidently tackle questions about your preparation process and demonstrate your dedication to securing the desired position.
Let’s explore effective ways to prepare for an interview and increase your chances of success.
Here are some additional insights and tips to help you prepare effectively for an interview:
1. Research the Company: Take the time to thoroughly research the company you are interviewing with. Explore their website, read about their products or services, and familiarize yourself with their mission and values. This will demonstrate your genuine interest in the organization and your dedication to understanding their business.
2. Understand the Role: Gain a clear understanding of the job description and the specific requirements of the role you are applying for. Analyze how your skills, experience, and qualifications align with the position. This will enable you to showcase your suitability and explain how you can contribute to the company’s success.
3. Review Common Interview Questions: While you can’t predict every question you’ll be asked, it’s beneficial to prepare for commonly asked interview questions. Practice your responses to questions about your strengths, weaknesses, past experiences, and career goals. This will help you articulate your thoughts more confidently during the interview.
4. Prepare Examples: Prepare specific examples from your past experiences that highlight your achievements, problem-solving skills, and ability to work in a team. These examples will add depth to your responses and provide tangible evidence of your capabilities.
5. Stay Updated: Stay up-to-date with the latest news and trends related to the industry and the company you are interviewing with. This demonstrates your enthusiasm and commitment to professional growth.
6. Practice, Practice, Practice: Conduct mock interviews with a friend or family member to practice your responses and refine your communication skills. This will boost your confidence and help you become more comfortable during the actual interview.
Remember, preparation is key to a successful interview. By investing time in research, self-reflection, and practice, you can confidently answer questions about your interview preparation and impress the interviewer with your commitment and suitability for the position. Good luck!