10 Steps to Prepare for Your Best Job Interview Ever!

10 Steps to Prepare for Your Best Job Interview Ever

If you’re looking to take the next big leap in your career right here in Michigan, preparing for an interview is more than just showing up on time. It’s your chance to stand out, impress future employers, and land a role that fits your ambitions. Whether you’re applying for a tech startup in Ann Arbor, a health system in Kalamazoo, a manufacturing role in Grand Rapids, or a fintech role in Detroit, these 10 practical steps will help you walk into any interview with confidence.

1. Dress for Success—and for Confidence: What you wear to your interview can influence how you feel and how others perceive you. Choose an outfit that’s professional, polished, and most importantly, makes you feel confident and competent.

• Make sure your clothes are clean, well-fitted, and pressed (yes, now’s the time to dust off the iron).
• Pick shoes that are comfortable but appropriate.
• If you're unsure, opt for business casual—it’s a safe bet for many Michigan industries.

2. Know the Interview Setup.

Onsite Interviews

• Confirm the address and know where to park—especially in city centers like Lansing or Detroit.
• Bring multiple copies of your resume.
• Carry a notebook and pen for notes.

Online Interviews

• Test your tech setup specific to the platform being used (i.e. Zoom, Teams, Google Meet).
• Choose a quiet, well-lit space with a neutral background—or use a virtual one.
• Practice looking at the camera and eliminating background distractions.

3. Bring the Energy: Your energy matters. Interviewers often remember enthusiastic candidates.

• Practice in front of a mirror to fine-tune body language and facial expressions.
• Smile! It not only conveys confidence but also helps ease nerves.
• Stand or sit up straight to project focus and engagement.

4. Prepare 3-5 Questions for the Interviewer: Do your homework because asking thoughtful questions shows initiative and curiosity.

• Research the company culture, recent news, and leadership on LinkedIn.
• If you know who’s interviewing you, learn about their role and background.
• Ask about growth opportunities, team dynamics, and company goals.

5. Rehearse Common Interview Questions: Don’t wing it. Practice answering common questions like:

• “Tell me about yourself.”
• “Describe a challenge you’ve overcome.”
• “Why do you want to work here?”
• Record yourself on your phone and watch it back. Yes, it’s awkward—but you’ll spot things to improve like tone, speed, or filler words.

6. Reread the Job Posting—With Purpose: Review the job description line by line.

• Highlight where your experience matches up.
• Jot down work examples that prove your fit.
• Be ready to talk about your accomplishments in terms of results.

7. Reflect on the Company’s Mission and Values: Most companies in Michigan—from big players like Ford and Spectrum Health to smaller local startups—share their mission online.

• What resonates with you?
• What excites you about the role or the company?
• How do your personal values align with theirs?

8. The Day Before: Get in the Zone. Prepare both physically and mentally.

• Eat nutritious meals and hydrate.
• Get a full night’s sleep—don’t underestimate the value of enough sleep!
• Visualize success: picture yourself thriving in this role. This mental prep boosts confidence and reduces stress.

9. One Hour Before: Final Touches. It’s game time!

• Get dressed, get your materials in order, and set your environment.
• Have water nearby.
• Sit down a few minutes early, breathe deeply, and smile while you wait—it calms nerves and sets a positive tone.

10. Own the Introduction: First impressions count, whether in person or online.

• Offer a firm handshake and make eye contact.
• For virtual interviews, position a small mirror near your screen to remind you to smile.
• Avoid fidgeting. Stay grounded and attentive.

Bonus Tip 1: Reflect on the Interview. While it’s still fresh in your mind, note answers to some reflection questions:

• What did you learn about the company?
• What did you do well in the interview?
• What would you improve next time?

Bonus Tip 2: Follow-Up After the Interview Within 24 Hours:

• Thank the interviewer(s) for their time.
• Restate your interest in the position and the company.
• Mention 2–3 things you learned and highlight what makes you a strong fit.

Final Thoughts
Job interviews are your chance to showcase who you are, not just what’s on your resume. With preparation and self-awareness, you’ll stand out for all the right reasons. Your next big opportunity might be just one great conversation away.

Robert Magee is Executive Director of The Engineering Society of Detroit. ESD represents over 3,000 engineers and 140 companies in Michigan. The Society promotes and celebrates innovation, excellence, collaboration, and professional growth across the spectrum of engineering disciplines. He is a passionate advocate for providing pathways for emerging engineers and works extensively with the ESD student chapters at 13 universities in Michigan. ESD runs fall and spring Engineers Get Hired events where hundreds of engineers get the opportunity to meet with Michigan’s leading employers. The Society also hosts the annual Link in the D event for engineering students looking to network with engineering staff at a broad array of companies in Michigan.