You’ve been juggling work, family, and the job hunt, so when that long-awaited interview invitation finally lands in your inbox, it’s completely normal to feel a mix of excitement and nerves. As a busy working mom, your time is limited, but thoughtful preparation can make all the difference. In this post, we’ll walk you through practical, time-efficient steps to take before, during, and after your interview, so you can feel confident, prepared, and one step closer to your next opportunity.

Pre-Interview Steps

Interviews are a crucial part of the hiring process, offering employers a chance to evaluate your qualifications, personality, and fit for the role. Depending on the company and the type of position you’re applying for, interviews can take many forms, ranging from phone screenings and virtual interviews to panel or technical interviews. Understanding the type of interview you’re walking into can help you better prepare, reduce anxiety, and make a stronger impression.

Before any type of interview, make sure to follow these steps:

1. Research the company goals, vision, and mission.

You must have knowledge of the company you want to work for.

• What type of work is done?

• What accomplishments have they achieved?

• What are they proud of?

• How is the company culture?

Many employers ask the question, "Why do you want to work here" or "What do you know about X company" to ensure you have done your research.

2. Practice behavioral questions using the STAR method.

The STAR method is a structured way to answer behavioral interview questions by outlining your experiences clearly and effectively. It stands for:

S - Situation: "At my previous job, a key team member unexpectedly quit right before a major project deadline."

T - Task: "As the team lead, it was my responsibility to redistribute the workload and ensure the project stayed on track."

A - Action: "I immediately held a team meeting to assess our progress and reassigned tasks based on everyone’s strengths. I also worked overtime to help fill the gap."

R - Result: "We completed the project on time, and the client was very satisfied. My manager praised my leadership and problem-solving skills."

The STAR method answers the following questions:

• How do you find solutions to problems?

• How do you react in certain situations?

3. Practice job specific questions.

Always review the job description carefully to understand what qualifications and experience the employer is looking for. Talk to professionals in the field to learn what types of questions are commonly asked in interviews. You can also search online for sample interview questions to help you prepare.

Note: If you lack specific experience with a software application or task, try to think of a similar experience you’ve had. Alternatively, explain how you would approach the situation based on your skills and knowledge.

4. Time yourself.

You should aim to answer interview questions within a reasonable time frame. For example, when asked, 'Can you tell us about yourself?' try to keep your response to around 1 minute. If it takes longer, it should not exceed 2 minutes. Focus on your education and job-related experiences.

The length of your answers will depend on the question’s context. Simple questions may only require a 30-second response, while more detailed questions may take 1 to 3 minutes to answer.

5. Decide on something professional to wear.

Decide on something professional to wear. Choose an outfit that is both appropriate for the company culture and makes you feel confident. Make sure the clothes are clean, well-fitted, and free of wrinkles.

 6. Prepare question for the interview committee.

Asking questions during an interview not only shows your interest in the position but also gives you a better understanding of the company and its culture. Here are some good questions to ask the interview committee:

1. Can you describe a typical day or week in this role?

2. What are the immediate challenges or priorities that you would like the person in this role to address in the first 3 to 6 months?

3. What opportunities for professional development or growth does the company offer?

4. How does the team typically collaborate, and what is the management style in the department?

5. Can you tell me more about the team I would be working with?

These questions can help you assess if the company and role align with your values and goals, while also showing that you’ve done your homework and are thinking critically about the opportunity.

7. Check the interview location ahead of time.

If it is an in-person interview, visit the location beforehand to familiarize yourself with the route and parking options. Check traffic patterns to plan your arrival time, allowing extra time to avoid delays. For a virtual interview, ensure you have the necessary software installed and test it beforehand to avoid technical issues. Lastly, save the contact information of the recruiter in case of an emergency.

Interview Day Steps

1. Dress professionally even if it is a virtual interview.

Avoid overly casual or distracting clothing, and opt for neutral colors or subtle patterns. Stay away from tank tops, see-through shirts, short skirts, tennis shoes, or flip-flops. It's essential to feel comfortable in your attire, as this can impact your confidence during the interview. Ensure your hair and nails are neat, and be ready to make a positive first impression. While this may seem obvious, during my time working at a recruiting company, I actually saw candidates wearing inappropriate clothing.

2. Be on time.

Leave your house with enough time to avoid delays and ensure you arrive on time. It's better to be an hour early than to risk being late for your interview.

3. Have a positive mindset.

Stay positive and do your best. If you've practiced, you can be proud of yourself for giving it your all. I always view interviews as valuable practice opportunities, where I strive to do my best. If I’m not selected, it simply means I wasn’t the right fit, and a better opportunity is out there waiting for me.

4. Have good manners.

Start with a polite greeting, such as 'Good morning' or 'Nice to meet you.' Listen carefully before responding. Avoid using slang or casual language that you would use with family, especially in a formal setting. Also, do not talk on your phone or wear headsets during the interview.

After the Interview

After the interview, be sure to send a thank-you note. Express your appreciation for the opportunity to interview, highlight something you enjoyed discussing, and reiterate your enthusiasm for the position. This gesture shows professionalism and reinforces your interest in the role.

Final Thoughts

Interviews can be both exciting and intimidating, whether you're advancing in your current field or transitioning into a new one. By reviewing and applying the steps outlined in this blog, you’ll be better prepared to succeed. Do your best, and take pride in the effort you’ve made, it’s a meaningful step toward your goals.

Best wishes,

Mel