The complete interview guide: before, during and after

Interviews feel like a test. They're really a conversation where both sides are checking for fit. Here's how to walk in ready.

Before: the 90-minute prep plan

30 minutes: know them

• Read their website's "About" page and their latest news.
• Read the job ad twice. Highlight the 3 things they mention most. Those are what they'll ask about.
• Look up your interviewers on LinkedIn. What did they do before? What do they post about?

45 minutes: know your stories

• Write 5 short stories from your work: a win, a problem you fixed, a time you disagreed with someone, a mistake you learned from, a time you led something.
• Use the STAR method for each (see our STAR guide).
• Match each story to one of their 3 big needs.

15 minutes: logistics

• Test your camera and sound if it's a video call.
• Plan your route if it's in person. Arrive 10 minutes early, not 30.
• Prepare 3 questions to ask them (see questions to ask).

During: how to come across well

• First 60 seconds matter. Smile, say their name, and have your "Tell me about yourself" answer ready (here's the formula).
• Answer, then stop. Most answers should be 1 to 2 minutes. If they want more, they'll ask.
• Use numbers. "I grew sales" is forgettable. "I grew sales 22% in a year" is not.
• It's okay to pause. "Good question, let me think for a second" sounds confident.
• Don't trash old bosses. Even if they deserved it.
• Show you want it. Near the end, say it plainly: "I'd really like this job, and here's why."

The questions you'll almost certainly get

1. Tell me about yourself.
2. Why do you want to work here?
3. Why are you leaving your current job?
4. Tell me about a time you faced a challenge.
5. What's your biggest weakness?
6. Where do you see yourself in a few years?
7. What are your salary expectations? (our salary guide)
8. Do you have any questions for us?

See the most common interview questions and how to answer them.

After: the part most people skip

• Within 24 hours: send a short thank-you email (template here).
• Write down what they asked and how you answered. It helps for the next round.
• If you hear nothing in a week: one polite follow-up is fine.
• If it's a no: ask for feedback in one line. Some will reply, and it's gold.

Interview types, quickly

• Phone screen with a recruiter: short, checks basics and salary. Guide.
• Video interview: same as in person, plus tech. Guide.
• Behavioural: "Tell me about a time…". Use STAR.
• Case or task: they give you a problem to solve. Think out loud.
• Panel: several people. Look at the person asking, then include the others.
• Final round: often with a senior leader. Focus on why you, why now, and the impact you'll have.

Zoe preps you for every interview: likely questions for that exact job, answers built from your real experience, and questions to ask them. And for a final round, you can bring in a real Zoe coach.