You’ll find several internet resources on how to succeed in an interview. They might be helpful to some extent but most will fail to give you an ultimate guide. In this blog post, I won’t be sharing generic interview preparation strategies. Instead, I’ll introduce a universal approach to achieving success.
The typical approach
Every guide on the internet will give you tips on communication skills, code of conduct, and answers to memorize for some common questions. They’ll glorify their tips and tricks by calling them “The secret sauce.” Nothing is a secret sauce if it’s available to the public.
Let’s say you’re able to clear an interview with someone’s so-called secret sauce, you struggle in the actual job. Is there a better way? Yes there is.
What worked for me
Interview processes are designed to evaluate your ability to succeed in the role, not to check if you know the “secret sauce.” If you lack the skills needed to perform the job effectively, no amount of tricks or shortcuts will help. Instead, focus on becoming the best version of yourself by mastering the skills and competencies the role demands.
I participated in multiple technical interviews in 2024 for software developer roles and succeeded in all of them. Instead of relying on the tips and tricks often shared by self-proclaimed interview coaches online, I focused on honing my skills and striving to become an exceptional software developer. Additionally, I built a strong portfolio showcasing my projects and experiences, which played a key role in my success.
When you shift your focus from merely preparing for interviews to mastering the actual job, it has a profound impact on your confidence. Building a strong portfolio of projects and achievements gives you tangible proof of your capabilities. When you deeply understand the skills and tasks required for a role, you naturally feel more confident. You know you’ve done the work, and that assurance shines through in your responses.
This approach doesn’t just prepare you for one interview—it builds the skills and confidence needed for a successful career. Knowing that your preparation benefits you far beyond the interview room creates a deeper sense of purpose and self-belief.
The right way to demonstrate
While technical expertise and job-specific skills are critical, strong communication skills can make or break your chances in both interviews and the workplace. People often confuse communication skills with being able to speak fluently. Communicating well is more than just that.
Communication skills, as defined by Indeed are the ability to convey your messages, thoughts, and ideas.
No matter how impressive your work experience or personal projects are, if you don’t present them well in your resume or interviews, they’re of no use. So figure out your own way of expressing yourself the best.
Conclusion
Interviews are to judge your capabilities to do a job. Succeeding in an interview isn’t about mastering tricks or memorizing standard answers—it’s about demonstrating that you’re genuinely prepared to excel in the role. Focusing on developing your core skills, building a strong portfolio, and honing your communication abilities, you set yourself apart as a candidate who can truly add value to the organization.