Preparation is everything. If you prepare well, you have a greater chance of success. In fact, the preparation bit is as important as the actual interview itself.

This list is not exhaustive but it covers the necessary basic things that you need to prepare.

1. Pick what you are going to wear wisely

I had a candidate who went for an interview with an international cosmetic and skincare company recently. I’m not sure what got into him but he picked a bright pink shirt for the occasion. It was too flashy even for that industry. That was the first comment I received from the employer immediately after the interview. So, give a bit of thought on what you are going to wear. It’s not vain but absolutely the wise thing to do. Pick the right color, with the right matching skirt or pants and the accessories. You can read more here.

2. Check your resume and know them by heart

I encountered many times when I read something from the resume, the reply was, “Did I write that?” or “Oh, I’m sorry. That should not be there. I forgotten to take it out.” In order to avoid such embarrassment, vet through your resume and know what you have written there so that you are ever ready to give a good reply if further clarification is required. By replying confidently, it shows you know your stuff well and it certainly boosts your chances.

3. Prepare your answers to some common interview questions

If you do not know by now what are some of the most common interview questions, find out here. Be clear on what you are going to say. If possible, anticipate some of the follow-up questions from the replies that you will be giving, preempting any inconsistencies resulting from your unpreparedness.

4. Research the company and the position you are applying

You can know almost everything about a company by a click now. So, there is really no excuse why you can’t arm yourself with some information about the company. Any interviewer would look forward to interview a candidate that is serious about the job and what better way to show your sincerity by giving the impression that you have been researching about the company and your interest in knowing more.

5. Get the location right

If you have a GPS, use it. If not, print out a hard copy of the map. And if need be, call up the company and ask for landmark and other information such as the shortest route to the office and etc. Always allow enough time to get there. It’s better to be too early than late, even by five minutes. Store the company’s telephone number or interviewer’s hand phone number in your phone in case you need to call them.

Interviewers always appreciate a candidate that is well-prepared. All the best, job seekers :)