Interviews
How to Prepare for a Job Interview
6 min read · Updated 17 June 2026
The candidates who get hired are usually not the most talented, they are the best prepared. Walking into an interview ready and calm tells the employer exactly what they want to know: that you take this seriously and you can be relied on. Use this checklist in the days before, and on the morning of, your interview.
The day before: research and plan
- Research the company. Know what they do, their main products or services, and where they are based.
- Re-read the advert and list the skills they asked for, with one example of yours for each.
- Plan your route. Know exactly where to go and how long it takes. Aim to arrive 10-15 minutes early.
- Pick your outfit and check it is clean and ironed.
- Charge your phone and save the interviewer's contact in case of delays.
What to bring
Pack a neat folder with:
- Several printed copies of your CV
- Your ID (and a copy)
- Certificates and qualifications (and copies)
- A list of references with phone numbers
- A pen and small notebook
- The job advert and any reference number
Having your documents in order makes a strong first impression and means you can hand over anything they ask for on the spot.
What to wear
Dress one level smarter than the job itself. Clean, neat and conservative always wins.
- Office or professional roles: formal - collared shirt, smart trousers or skirt, closed shoes.
- Retail, hospitality, call centre: smart casual - neat and tidy, no torn or dirty clothes.
- General worker, warehouse, security: clean, practical, presentable clothing.
Whatever the role, be well-groomed, avoid strong perfume, and make sure your shoes are clean.
Practice your answers
Rehearse out loud, ideally with a friend asking the questions. Prepare for the classics: "Tell me about yourself", "Why do you want this job?", "What are your strengths and weaknesses?" and a couple of "tell me about a time" stories using the STAR method. Our interview questions and answers guide covers each one in detail. Also prepare two questions to ask them.
On the day: nerves, body language and timing
- Arrive early, but not more than 15 minutes.
- Switch your phone to silent before you walk in.
- Greet everyone politely, including reception and security.
- Offer a firm handshake, make eye contact and smile.
- Sit up straight, listen carefully, and take a breath before answering.
- It is fine to pause. A short think looks better than a rushed, jumbled answer.
Nerves are normal. Slow your breathing, remember you prepared, and treat it as a conversation, not an interrogation.
Frequently asked questions
How early should I arrive for an interview?
Aim to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. Earlier than that can be awkward for the employer; late is the worst impression you can make.
What should I bring to a job interview?
Several printed copies of your CV, your ID and copies, certificates, a reference list, a pen and notebook, and the job advert or reference number, all in a neat folder.
What should I wear to an interview in South Africa?
Dress one level smarter than the job. Formal for office roles, smart casual for retail and hospitality, and clean, neat, practical clothing for general worker or warehouse roles. Always be well-groomed.
How do I calm my nerves before an interview?
Prepare thoroughly, arrive early, slow your breathing, and treat the interview as a conversation. Knowing you have rehearsed your answers and packed your documents removes most of the stress.