Before the Interview 

• Research the company: review their About/Values page, what they do, who they serve, the role description, and current trends (if applicable)

• Know who is interviewing you and their role (if provided)

• Review the job description and identify key skills the employer is looking for

• Prepare talking points and anticipate common interview questions

• Practice your interview responses out loud

• Review your resume and cover letter — be prepared to discuss anything you included

• Confirm the interview location (building, floor, unit number) or virtual link

• Plan your route and build in extra time in case of delays

• Prepare an appropriate interview outfit ahead of time

• Bring copies of your resume, cover letter, and references, along with paper and a pen (keep everything organized in a folder)

• Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the employer (avoid basic questions like dress code)

• Get a good night’s sleep

Day of the Interview (Before it Begins)

• Arrive on time — aim to arrive 20 minutes early

• Bring the materials you prepared (resume, cover letter, references, pen, paper)

• Be polite and professional to all staff you interact with — first impressions matter

• Turn your phone off or place it on silent

• Avoid strong scents (perfume, cologne, heavily scented products)

• Enter with a positive, confident attitude

During the Interview 

• Answer questions in complete, thoughtful responses.

• Listen carefully to each question before answering — some questions may have two parts, so make sure you address both.

• If you forget the question, that’s okay — politely ask the interviewer to repeat it.

• Relate your skills and experiences directly to the needs of the company.

• Sell yourself — highlight your strengths with confidence.

• Use clear, direct language (avoid fillers like “um,” “like,” or “you know”).

• Get to the point — be concise and focused.

• Maintain appropriate eye contact.

• Use positive body language (sit up straight, avoid fidgeting, nod while listening).

Behavioural Interview Questions 

Some interview questions are behavioural, meaning they ask you to describe how you handled a situation in the past. Employers use these questions to understand how you may act in the future.

How to Answer: Use the SARA Method

• Situation – Describe the situation or challenge

• Action – Explain what you did

• Result – Share the outcome

• Application – Explain what you learned or how it applies to the role

Example 

Situation: A customer was upset about a long wait time.

Action: Listened calmly, apologized, and offered a solution.

Result: The customer left satisfied and thanked me for helping.

Application: This shows strong communication and problem-solving skills, which are important for customer-focused roles.

After the Interview 

• Send a thank-you email within 24 hours

• Reflect on your performance and identify areas for improvement

• Think about what you learned about the role and organization

• Assess how the position aligns with your priorities, interests, and goals

If You Do Not Hear Back

• If the hiring timeline has passed, send one polite follow-up email

• Reaffirm your interest in the position

• Do not send multiple follow-ups - only one.