Tshidi Careers offers personalised CV and cover-letter support, interview preparation, LinkedIn profile guidance and career coaching. Each service is tailored to your goals, experience level and next career move.

Research helps you understand the company’s mission, products, culture, and recent developments. It also allows you to tailor your answers and show genuine interest during the interview.

Start with the company website and LinkedIn page. You can also review recent news articles, employee reviews, and social media channels.

Review the job description carefully and identify the key requirements. Prepare examples from your experience that directly demonstrate those skills and achievements.

Focus on common interview questions such as:

• Tell me about yourself

• Why do you want this role?

• What are your strengths and weaknesses?

• Why should we hire you?

STAR stands for:

• Situation

• Task

• Action

• Result

It is a structured way to answer behavioural interview questions using real examples from your experience.

Aim to prepare 3 to 5 strong examples that showcase leadership, problem-solving, teamwork, achievements, and handling challenges.

What should I bring to an interview?

Bring:

• Extra copies of your CV

• A notepad and pen

• A list of references if requested

• Prepared questions for the interviewer

Choose professional attire that aligns with the company culture. When unsure, it is usually better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.

How early should I arrive?

Aim to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early for in-person interviews. For virtual interviews, log in a few minutes early to test your setup.

What should I do before the interview starts?

Silence your phone, take a few deep breaths, and review your key points and examples.

How can I make a strong first impression?

Be polite, confident, and professional. Maintain good posture, smile naturally, and make eye contact throughout the conversation.

What if I do not understand a question?

It is perfectly acceptable to ask for clarification or for the interviewer to repeat the question.

How long should my answers be?

Keep your answers clear, focused, and concise. Avoid overexplaining or going off-topic.

Should I ask questions at the end of the interview?

Yes. Prepare 2 to 3 thoughtful questions about the role, team, company culture, or growth opportunities.

How should I end the interview?

Thank the interviewer for their time, express enthusiasm for the role, briefly reinforce your suitability, and ask about the next steps in the process.

Should I send a thank-you email?

Yes. Sending a thank-you email within 24 hours demonstrates professionalism and continued interest in the opportunity.

What should I include in a thank-you email?

Include:

• Appreciation for the interviewer’s time

• A reference to part of the discussion

• Confirmation of your interest in the role

When should I follow up after an interview?

If you have not heard back by the agreed timeline, send a polite follow-up email requesting an update.

Why is post-interview reflection important?

Reflecting on your interview helps you identify strengths, improve weaker areas, and prepare more effectively for future opportunities.

Quick Interview Checklist

✔ Company research completed
✔ CV and STAR stories prepared
✔ Interview outfit ready
✔ Questions for the interviewer prepared
✔ Thank-you email draft ready

Following a structured preparation plan helps you stay confident, focused, and professional throughout the interview process.