The Extreme Interview Prep Process

It may sound extreme, but I recommend up to 10 hours of preparation per company that you are interviewing with. 

Yes, that sounds like overkill, but the average interview process is 2-3 interviews of 40 minutes. Your performance in these 1-2 hours could be the most crucial hours in an entire decade, when it comes to career impact!

Overall, the process runs from learning about the job and company to prepping your interview answers, and then engaging in rigorous practice. What may set the below plan apart from the average interview prep advice is the culminating round of feedback and reflection, taking into account what you’ve learned and where you need to improve.

Hour 1: Study the Job Description and Company Details

• What to Do:
  • Read the Job Description Thoroughly: Go through each section of the job description, including responsibilities, qualifications, and desired skills. Highlight or take notes on key points.
  • Identify Key Skills and Responsibilities: Make a list of the skills and experiences that are repeatedly mentioned. These are likely crucial for the role.
  • Research the Company: Visit the company’s official website to understand its mission, values, and recent news. Look for sections like “About Us,” “Careers,” and “Press Releases.”
  • Explore the Company’s Online Presence: Check the company’s social media profiles (LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook) to see how they present themselves and engage with their audience.
  • Review Recent News Articles: Search for recent news articles or press releases about the company to understand its current projects, challenges, and achievements.

Hours 2-3: Conduct Informational Interviews

• What to Do:
  • Identify Potential Contacts: Use LinkedIn or your personal network to find current or former employees of the company who might be willing to chat.
  • Reach Out Professionally: Send a polite and concise message requesting a brief informational interview. Mention your interest in the company and any mutual connections.
  • Prepare Questions: Develop a list of questions to ask during the conversation, focusing on the company culture, work environment, and team dynamics.
  • Conduct the Interviews: Schedule and conduct the interviews, ensuring you are respectful of the person’s time. Aim for a 15-20 minute conversation.
  • Take Notes: During the conversation, jot down key insights and advice that could be useful in your interview preparation.

Hours 4-6: Develop and Practice “Power” Answers

• What to Do:
  • List Common Interview Questions: Compile a list of common interview questions, including behavioral, situational, and technical questions relevant to the role.
  • Craft Your Responses: Write out responses to each question, using the SPAR method (not STAR) for behavioral questions. Focus on specific examples that highlight your achievements.
  • Practice Out Loud: Rehearse your answers aloud to ensure they sound natural and confident. This will help you become comfortable with your responses. Film yourself. Try otter.ai or rev to record verbal answers and see the transcripts of what you say when you speak naturally.
  • Refine Your Answers: Edit your responses to be concise and impactful. Aim for clarity and relevance, ensuring each answer highlights your suitability for the role.
  • Incorporate Feedback: If possible, get feedback from a friend or mentor on your answers and make necessary adjustments.

Hours 7-8: Engage in Mock Interviews

• What to Do:
  • Set Up a Mock Interview: Arrange a mock interview with a friend, mentor, or career coach. Use video conferencing tools if the actual interview will be virtual.
  • Create a Realistic Environment: Dress professionally and choose a quiet, distraction-free space to simulate the interview setting.
  • Conduct the Interview: Go through the mock interview as if it were real, answering questions and engaging with the interviewer.
  • Record the Session: If possible, record the mock interview to review your performance, paying attention to your body language, tone, and clarity.
  • Gather Feedback: Ask for constructive feedback from your mock interviewer on your answers, demeanor, and overall presentation.

Hours 9-10: Refine Answers and Conduct Additional Research

• What to Do:
  • Review and Polish Your Answers: Based on feedback from mock interviews, refine your answers to ensure they are clear, concise, and relevant.
  • Conduct Additional Research: Deepen your understanding of the company by researching its competitors, industry trends, and recent developments.
  • Prepare Questions for the Interviewer: Develop thoughtful questions to ask during the interview, such as inquiries about the company’s future direction, team dynamics, or specific projects.
  • Practice Final Delivery: Go through your refined answers and questions one last time to ensure you are comfortable and confident with them.
  • Organize Your Materials: Prepare any documents you might need for the interview, such as your resume, a list of references, and notes on key points.

By following these detailed steps, you’ll be thoroughly prepared for your interview, with a strong understanding of the role and company, polished answers, and thoughtful questions to engage the interviewer.