Interview notes & templates

A well-prepared interview can set you apart as a candidate. This guide walks you through key steps, from researching the company and role to crafting thoughtful responses and questions. With practical tips for logistics and follow-up, you’ll be ready to present yourself confidently and professionally.

Step 1: Research
About the Company:

• Mission and values:
• Key products/services:
• Recent news or achievements:
• Competitors/market position:

About the Role:

• Key responsibilities:
• Required skills/qualifications:
• Expectations for the first 90 days:

About the Interviewer(s):

• Names and roles:
• LinkedIn profiles (if available):

Step 2: Prepare Your Responses
Common Questions:
1. Tell me about yourself.
2. Why are you interested in this role?
3. What are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?
4. Describe a challenging situation and how you handled it.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Behavioral Questions (STAR Method):
1. Leadership example:
o Situation:
o Task:
o Action:
o Result:
2. Teamwork example:
o S:
o T:
o A:
o R:
3. Problem-solving example:
o S:
o T:
o A:
o R:
Technical/Role-Specific Questions:
1. Key technical competency 1:
o Example:
2. Key technical competency 2:
o Example:
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Step 3: Prepare Questions to Ask
1. About the role:
o What does success look like in this position?
2. About the team:
o Can you describe the team dynamic?
3. About the company:
o What are the company’s goals for the next 5 years?
________________________________________
Step 4: Logistics and Presentation
• Interview Format:
o In-person or virtual:
o Tools/platforms (e.g., Zoom, Teams):
• Documents to Bring:
o Printed resume:
o Portfolio or work samples:
o References:
• Attire:
o Dress code:
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Step 5: Follow-Up
Thank-You Email Template:
Subject: Thank You for the Interview
Dear [Interviewer’s Name],
Thank you for taking the time to speak with me about the [Position Title] role at [Company Name]. I enjoyed learning more about [specific detail discussed] and am even more excited about the opportunity to contribute to [specific goal/project].
Please let me know if there’s anything further you need from me. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
________________________________________
Checklist
1. Research completed: [ ]
2. Responses prepared: [ ]
3. Questions to ask: [ ]
4. Documents organized: [ ]
5. Attire ready: [ ]
6. Follow-up email drafted: [ ]