How much time do you typically spend preparing for a job interview if you really want the job?

Anonymous

October 31,2023 at 4:36PM UTC

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How much time do you typically spend preparing for a job interview if you really want the job?

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Hannah MaertzOctober 31,2023 at 5:01PM UTC
Depends on the interview type/what stage of the process it is! But generally 1-3 hours.
AnonymousOctober 31,2023 at 6:52PM UTC
Thank you both so much - I think I’ve got slightly obsessive about preparing for this one!
AnonymousOctober 31,2023 at 8:38PM UTC
It depends, really. If it's a role I really want then chances are I'm likely already very familiar with the organization. I don't want to spend too much time preparing for it, because then I will overthink it and that never ends well.
AnonymousNovember 1,2023 at 12:44PM UTC
I've interviewed at so many places over the years I don't even prepare anymore and just wing it.
AnonymousNovember 1,2023 at 12:56PM UTC
I generally spend several hours throughout the application and interview process, but then again, I am very picky. I research the company and try to understand its history, culture, products, services, and purpose for the position I am applying for. I try to go in with at least three specific questions about their business model, products, and company policies. I am interviewing them as much as they are interviewing me. The more attracted I am to the position, the more time I spend, so in that regard, it varies.
ChrishoggNovember 1,2023 at 1:00PM UTC
This is a question that has no answer.
But I would suggest that you (we) should treat every job interview as being for a job we "really want." Otherwise, why are you even bothering?
AnonymousNovember 1,2023 at 1:17PM UTC
Just keep in mind that even if you study hard and get an A on the interview, you still might not get the job.
Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistNovember 1,2023 at 4:49PM UTC
Typically about 30 minutes - maybe 45 if it's particularly complex global company.
The candidates that I interview every day don't seem to spend any time at all.
AnonymousNovember 3,2023 at 9:24AM UTC
Director level here. The further into the process I am, the more I prepare - probably 30 minutes tops. Early interviews are general conversations about mutual fit. Further into the process, like prepping for a full day of interviews, I am making sure I know details about the company cold, and can easily recall and explain details of my relevant training and experience. That prep might be a couple hours.