How to prepare for your next job interview.

Whether you’re just starting in your career or seeking new opportunities, preparing for an interview can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Approaching interviews with a Catholic mindset means conducting yourself with integrity, humility, and a commitment to excellence. By preparing thoroughly, demonstrating enthusiasm, and staying true to your values, you can navigate the interview process with confidence. Here are eight tips to help you prepare for your next interview:

1. Research the company beforehand.
   Before your interview, take the time to research the company thoroughly. Understand its mission, values, and culture, and then find ways to demonstrate your knowledge and interest in the company during the interview. This will also help you confirm if the company aligns with your values and goals, and whether or not you really want to work there.
   

2. Study the job description.
   Become very familiar with the job description and language used there, and do your best to use some of the same words during the job interview. Then you'll be more prepared to discuss how your skills and experiences make you a strong fit for this specific role. (It's great to do this ahead of time and already include some of the job description language in your resume and cover letter, too.)
   

3. Prepare for the most common interview questions.
   Having already thought-out answers to the most common interview questions can give you more confidence going into an interview and prevent you from looking like a deer-in-headlights when they put you on the spot with the dreaded "What's your biggest weakness?" Reflect on your experiences and be ready to articulate how they have prepared you for the position, and remember to incorporate examples that showcase your skills and accomplishments. You can find a good list of common interview questions here.
   

4. Describe your aspirational self.
   Instead of solely focusing on your past job experiences, paint a picture of your aspirational self: who you want to be in this next role. Share your vision for how you can contribute to the job and the organization’s mission. Emphasize your passion and unique qualities suited for this role, whether it comes from your past experiences or is an intrinsic part of who you are (character, values, personality traits, and natural gifts).
   

5. Show enthusiasm for the role (even if you're still not sure).
   Showing excitement for this job opportunity, even if you’re still exploring other options, is so important. If the interviewer doesn't believe that you really want the job, even if you're highly qualified, they're likely to pass you up for a more enthusiastic option. Don't pretend, but tap into your genuine enthusiasm for this new role and what the company has to offer (and if you can't find any excitement for this job, it might be a sign that this just isn't the right role for you after all).
   

6. Go in confident.
   Despite any feelings of imposter syndrome, act confident during the interview. Remember that you have unique gifts and skills to offer, and the fact that you made it to the interview means they think you have what it takes. Keep in mind that you can always learn more and grow on the job, you don't have to have it all figured out right now. Approaching the interview with a positive mindset and believing in your abilities will help the interviewers feel confident in you too.
   

7. Bring your own questions.
   Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer that demonstrate your genuine interest and curiosity. Someone who comes into an interview without questions could come off as too desperate for the role, or simply uninterested in the job altogether. The interview process is also a chance for you to learn more about the company and the role, so take the opportunity to ask the tough questions now rather than wishing you had later.
   

8. Express gratitude and follow up!
   Make sure to express heartfelt gratitude to the interviewers for their time and for giving you the opportunity to interview for this job. Always send a personalized thank you email reiterating your interest in the position, summarizing the key reasons you're a good candidate, and thanking them for considering you. It may sound like a small thing, but I've met hiring managers who have completely disqualified an otherwise good candidate simply because they failed to send a follow-up email, so don't skip this last step!
   

Remember to trust in God’s plan for your career journey and remain open to where He may lead you, even if this next job interview doesn't pan out. If you would like more help navigating this process, coaching can help! Check out my coaching packages or schedule a free consultation to learn more.