Landing a job Interview is the first big step toward securing new employment, but showing up ready to impress is essential for increasing your chances of getting the job. Being well-prepared can help calm nerves and allow your qualifications to shine through. With some strategic pre-interview planning, you can present your best, most confident self when the big day arrives.

Whether you have two days or two weeks to get ready, follow this interview prep checklist to ensure you have covered all the key bases:

• Research the company and your interviewers: Learn about the company’s history, mission, products/services, competitors, and recent news. Look up your interviewer(s) on LinkedIn to understand their role and background.
• Practice answering common interview questions: Prepare answers for questions about your strengths, weaknesses, achievements, failures, and reasons for interest in the company. Practice delivering responses aloud.
• Prepare questions to ask the interviewer: Having thoughtful questions ready demonstrates your interest in and enthusiasm for the company. Ask about challenges, growth opportunities, company culture, etc.
• Review the job description: Refresh your memory on the position’s desired skills, qualifications, and duties. This will help you explain how you are a strong fit.
• Print extra copies of your resume: Bring clean, up-to-date copies of your resume free of errors. Expect to reference it during the interview.
• Plan your interview attire: Dress professionally – clean, pressed outfit that aligns with company culture. The safe bet is traditional business formal.
• Confirm logistics: Verify the interview time, location, and contact person. Allow plenty of time to arrive early.
• Prepare and eat a healthy meal: Eat a nutritious meal so you have energy and focus. Avoid heavy foods that can make you feel sluggish.
• Get a good night’s rest: Rest properly so you are refreshed, alert, and ready to make a great impression.

Following this pre-interview checklist takes dedication and time, but the investment will pay dividends. Preparation builds confidence, reduces nervousness, and allows your qualifications shine. While you can’t predict exactly what will happen once the actual interview starts, thorough advance planning gives you the tools to better think on your feet.

Doing your homework shows the employer how serious you are about doing an excellent job should you be hired. With practice responses in your pocket and information to draw upon, you can focus on showcasing your fit through thoughtful, engaging discussion rather than worrying about freezing up. Walking into that interview room ready to succeed increases the likelihood that you will soon be walking out with a new job offer in hand. Stay centered on presenting your best professional self and let your hard preparation work pay off!