Interview Preparation

Today, the ability to access information through the internet allows people to fully prepare to meet anyone. Companies and people have made it easy to find this information.  The search engines today put you in the driver’s seat if you allow ample time to fully prepare.  One of the first questions you may be asked is “Tell me what you know about us”.  Understand that interviewing is a skill; as with all skills, preparation and practice enhance the quality of that skill. Preparation can make the difference between getting an offer or being rejected.

1)     Research the company and be prepared with knowledge about the company, management team, products and competition.  Review the company website and learn about their mission, products and services (if available, download the product); read press releases; learn about the management team, investors and partner relationships. Who are their potential customers and what problems their products solve?  Who are their competitors are and how are they positioned in the market?

2)     Search the web for additional company information and online business journals.

Use http://www.bizjournals.com/boston/. 

3)     Search for the names of the people you will be interviewing.  The bio pages or press releases may give you some insight into their roles in the company.  Use LinkedIn or do a web search to find more background information.  You might find some common ground (for instance, a shared alma mater) you can bring up in conversation.  You may also find that you have industry connections in common.

4)     After you have completed your research, you can begin to construct thoughtful, insightful questions of interest about the company, their market and products.  How can you impact the growth and success of the business?

5)     Learning about the people in the interview process and their position in the company will also prepare you for how to approach each meeting. What are their expectations of this position.