HOw to Prepare for Interview
Introduction
Preparing properly for an interview is the best way to calm nerves, boost confidence, and increase your chances of making a lasting impression. Whether you're interviewing with a large company or a small, fast-growing business, preparation signals professionalism, enthusiasm, and respect for the opportunity.
At Bold New Recruitment, we’ve helped countless candidates walk into interviews feeling prepared, polished, and purposeful. Here's our step-by-step guide to ensure you're interview-ready from the moment you’re invited.
Before Interview
Understand What the Employer Wants
Start by thinking like a hiring manager: What problem is this company trying to solve by hiring you?
Re-read the job description and underline the qualities or experience they’re prioritising.
Match those to your own achievements, especially the ones you’ll talk about in the interview.
Focus on how you can add value from day one.
Look up everyone you are meeting on LinkedIn the night before. They will know you have and be impressed you are doing your homework.
Plan Logistics the Night Before
Know exactly where you’re going, how long it takes to get there, and who you’re meeting.
If it's a video interview, check your tech the day before (camera, mic, internet, platform login).
Aim to arrive or log in 10 minutes early.
Practice Makes Progress
Use the STAR Method
Prepare answers to likely questions using STAR:
S – Situation
T – Task
A – Action
R – Result
This gives your answers structure and makes your impact clear.
Try These Techniques:
Write down common questions and practise answering them out loud.
Record yourself and play it back. Listen to tone, clarity, and whether you’ve answered the question.
Practise in front of a mirror, notice fidgeting or distracting mannerisms.
Ask a friend or mentor to do a mock interview. It’s awkward but hugely helpful.
For example questions, see our blog: The Most Commonly Asked Interview Questions.
Do Your Research
Study the company’s website, team bios, news coverage, and social media.
Look at Companies House for size, structure, or recent changes if applicable.
Understand their values, recent achievements, and what sets them apart, but don’t recite their entire homepage in the interview. The goal is to show you’ve done your homework, not impress with trivia.
Dress the Part
Dress in line with the company’s culture, but always lean towards smart, polished, and professional.
If in doubt, ask your recruiter or research the company’s tone of voice online.
For video interviews, check your lighting, background, and attire the same way.
First Impressions Count
Arrive early, smile, make eye contact, and shake hands confidently if offered.
Sit with relaxed, open posture. Hands in your lap, no fidgeting.
If you tend to fiddle, remove rings, bracelets, or anything that might distract.
Bring a notebook—taking notes shows you’re engaged and gives you a moment to collect your thoughts.
Talking and Listening: Strike the Right Balance
Talking:
Speak clearly and with calm energy.
Be concise, but give enough detail to showcase your strengths.
Keep it positive and professional.
Listening:
Don’t interrupt.
Take a moment before answering.
Active listening means absorbing, not just waiting to talk.
Focus on your skills and how they match the job, not your knowledge gaps or what you “used to do.”
What to Avoid
Negativity: Never criticise a previous employer or team.
Oversharing: Avoid personal commitments, time restrictions, or salary expectations too early.
Showing off: Confidence is good but arrogance isn’t. Credit team efforts where appropriate.
Trying too hard with research: You’re not there to prove you know everything about the company. You’re there to explain why you are the right fit.
If there’s something you don’t know, say so, write it down and when home look it up.
Questions: Ask Thoughtfully
Only ask questions that are relevant to the role, the team, or the company’s future.
Avoid anything you could’ve found on their website.
Think about asking:
“What does success in this role look like?”
“How would you describe the company culture?”
“What are the biggest priorities for the person in this role over the next six months?”
After the Interview
Email the interviewer that same day to thank them for their time.
Keep it short, polite, and reiterate your enthusiasm.
If you forgot to mention something important, you can include it here.
A thoughtful follow-up keeps you top of mind.
Keep Safe
While negative experiences are extremely rare, it’s always important to prioritise your safety, especially when meeting a new contact in person.
Always meet at the company’s office.
Ensure the interview is scheduled during working hours.
Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.
Never share personal information beyond what’s on your CV.
If anything feels wrong please leave immediately and go somewhere safe. You are not obliged to explain yourself.
If you feel unsafe or threatened at any point, call 999.
Final Thought
Interviewing is a two-way process. You’re being assessed, yes, but you’re also assessing whether this is the right role, company, and culture for you. Preparation gives you power, confidence and presence.
Want More Personalised Support?
At Bold New Recruitment, we take the time to understand you. Our approach is grounded in integrity, individuality, and culture fit, so whether you’re new to the job market, returning after a break, or seeking a fresh direction, we’re here to support you with tailored guidance, CV reviews, and introductions to roles that truly match who you are.
Good Luck!