Preparing for your first job interview
The questions you will almost certainly be asked, how to prepare answers without memorising a script, and what to do on the day.
Know your CV inside out
Every line on your CV is a possible question. Read it the night before and be ready to talk about each role, project and skill for about a minute: what you did, how you did it and what you learned.
Research the employer
- What the company does, its main products or services, and who its customers are.
- The role: read the advert again and note the three skills it stresses most.
- Recent news: a new branch, product launch or award you can mention naturally.
Prepare three stories
Most interview questions can be answered with a short, real story. Prepare at least three:
- A time you solved a problem.
- A time you worked in a team, including a disagreement.
- A time you handled pressure or a tight deadline.
Tell each one in four parts: the situation, your task, the action you took and the result. Practise out loud, but do not memorise word for word.
Questions you will probably hear
- Tell me about yourself.
- Why do you want to work here?
- Why should we hire you?
- What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- Where do you see yourself in a few years?
- Do you have any questions for us?
Prepare your own questions
Ask two or three thoughtful questions at the end: what a typical day looks like, how success is measured in the first six months, or what training new joiners receive.
On the day
- Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early, or join an online interview early and test your camera and microphone.
- Bring printed copies of your CV, your CNIC, and copies of your degree and transcripts if asked.
- Dress one level smarter than the office's everyday dress.
- Switch your phone to silent.
After the interview
Send a short thank-you message or email the same day, mentioning one thing you discussed. If you have not heard back by the date they gave you, a polite follow-up is fine.