research to do before interview

12 Effective Ways to Research a Company Before an Interview

• Early Career

In preparation for your next job interview, we’ve gathered insights from top professionals, including HR executives and CEOs, to offer you the most effective strategies for researching a company. From analyzing employee social profiles to utilizing LinkedIn for company insights, explore the twelve comprehensive strategies these experts recommend for a deep dive into your potential employer’s world.

Analyze Employee Social Profiles

Observe active social media channels, check crunchbase for financial history, conduct informational interviews, research interviewers and company staff, study the company’s digital footprint, review website, reports, and employee insights, utilize glassdoor for candid feedback, leverage official channels and employee reviews, read between the lines of company communications, compare company with industry competitors, utilize linkedin for company insights.

Drawing from my dual background as an HR professional with five years of experience and an HR writer with four years under my belt, I’ve developed a keen eye for assessing company cultures and work environments beyond the company’s LinkedIn page and traditional review sites like Glassdoor. 

A key strategy is to closely observe how employees discuss their work environment and culture on their personal LinkedIn profiles. This approach offers authentic insights into the company culture, beyond what is officially presented.

For instance, recurring mentions of overtime, burnout, or high stress levels among employees are clear red flags, indicating a potential culture of overwork. Conversely, posts celebrating team achievements, work-life balance, or professional development suggest a positive, supportive environment. Such nuances provide valuable, candid insights into the company’s real culture, guiding you toward making a well-informed decision about your potential workplace.

Maheen Kanwal , HR Executive, B2B Tech SaaS Copywriter, Founder, Call to Authority

Assess the socials that they’re most active on so that you can really get a sense of what makes them ‘tick’, and what they’re likely to respond positively to. For example, if they have an office dog, then you can share your mutual love of dogs, or if they’re working on a certain project that they’ve shared, then you can comment on that project specifically.

Tracey Beveridge , HR Director, Personnel Checks

If you plan on working for a start-up, a scale-up, or a rapidly growing organization, I strongly recommend looking at Crunchbase to see their financial history. A great many privately owned companies survive almost entirely on venture capital, and the availability of this capital is paramount to their continued existence. 

Crunchbase outlines a company’s investment history, providing powerful insight into where the money is coming from. Consequently, when applying for jobs, it’s always worth keeping an eye on how much funding they have received, and for two reasons. Free-flowing funding means that salaries are likely to be paid as promised, as they are unlikely to run into financial problems in the short term. But also, if venture capital firms are interested in investing, this suggests the organization has something special going on, which is a positive sign.

Oliver Savill , CEO and Founder, AssessmentDay

One strategy I highly recommend for thoroughly researching a company before an interview is to leverage informational interviews with current or former employees. While online resources provide valuable information, speaking directly with individuals who have firsthand experience with the company can offer unique insights and perspectives.

Start by reaching out to your professional network or utilizing platforms like LinkedIn to identify individuals who currently work at or have previously worked for the company. Politely request a brief informational interview where you can ask questions about their experiences, company culture, values, and any other relevant aspects.

During the informational interview, focus on open-ended questions that encourage detailed responses. Inquire about the company’s mission, recent projects or initiatives, workplace environment, team dynamics, and growth opportunities. Additionally, ask about challenges they’ve faced and how the company addresses them, as well as any advice they have for potential candidates.

Listening attentively to their responses can provide valuable insights beyond what you might find in official company materials. Pay attention to recurring themes or sentiments, which can help you better understand the company’s culture and values.

After the informational interview, take notes and reflect on the information gathered. Compare it with other research sources, such as the company’s website, news articles, and employee reviews, to gain a comprehensive understanding.

Daniel Jorge , Senior Consultant, EC1 Partners

At the end of the day, companies are made up of people. It’s super important before an interview to do research about the people you’ll be speaking with. Just five minutes of Googling can do a lot… Look at their LinkedIn page (maybe you have connections or education in common) and find something interesting to discuss.

I’ve interviewed hundreds of people, and many don’t even look at our company website before speaking with us. Those that do just a little bit of research about the company and me really stand out and show they go the extra mile!

Corey Schwitz , CEO & Founder, On-Demand Salesforce, Hubspot and Revenue Ops Customization, Skydog Ops

A unique strategy for researching a company thoroughly before an interview is to study its digital footprint beyond the traditional scope of its official website and social media profiles. This involves a deep dive into various online platforms and resources where the company’s indirect presence can provide insightful context about its culture, reputation, and operational nuances. Here’s how to approach this:

Participate in or review discussions on industry-specific forums and online communities related to the company’s field. These platforms can offer unfiltered insights into the company’s reputation within the industry, emerging challenges it might be facing, and the innovations it’s known for.

Websites like Trustpilot, Yelp, or even product review sections on e-commerce platforms can provide a wealth of information about the company’s products or services, customer satisfaction levels, and how the company handles complaints or feedback. This research can explain the company’s customer service ethos and product quality.

Companies in regulated industries (finance, healthcare, etc.) should check reports and filings with regulatory bodies. These documents can shed light on the company’s compliance history, financial health, and any regulatory challenges it may have faced. This information can be particularly insightful for understanding the company’s operational rigor and market standing.

Vaibhav Kakkar , CEO, Digital Web Solutions

Before your interview, check the company’s website to learn about what it values and who leads it. Look at reports and financial statements for information on its finances and performance. Check news and social media for recent projects and how the company is perceived publicly. Read what employees say on sites like Glassdoor to understand how people feel about working there. 

Also, check LinkedIn for key people and connect with current or past employees if possible. This will give you a good understanding of the company, and during the interview, you can show that you know about its goals and values.

Eva Toledo , Senior Researcher, Kepler Search Pte Ltd

I would highly recommend using Glassdoor or any other tool that will provide candid feedback about an organization. While organizations can pay to try to have bad reviews removed, the on-the-ground feedback and how an organization responds can show a lot.

In my consulting practice, I was burned by this previously. A client that I was going to work for had really bad reviews about the culture, the owner, and red flags that would have been a tip-off of things to come. However, I ignored the data in front of me. They turned out to be very much like the reviews, and I should have heeded the warnings. I ended up leaving the client after about six months.

Ben Madden , Owner, HR Action LLC

I highly recommend utilizing the company’s official channels, particularly its website and published materials. Start by reviewing the About Us, Mission Statement, and Values sections to grasp the organization’s foundational principles and culture. Examine annual reports and financial statements for insights into the company’s financial health and performance. 

Additionally, explore recent news articles, press releases, and social media profiles to understand current developments and employee interactions. Leveraging employee review platforms like Glassdoor can provide valuable perspectives on the work environment. Connecting with current or former employees on platforms like LinkedIn can offer firsthand insights. 

This comprehensive approach ensures that candidates not only understand the business’s objectives and financial standing but also its culture and employee experiences, facilitating a more informed and tailored interview preparation.

Steven Mostyn , Chief Human Resources Officer, Management.org

The most important thing is to read between the lines on a company’s website and public communications to figure out what they really care about. Study their About page, press releases, leadership bios, and so on. Look for signs that they value innovation, people, or social responsibility in a way that appeals to you. Understanding what motivates a company will help the conversation flow better in interviews, beyond just your qualifications.

Additionally, check out news articles and reviews to get balanced inside perspectives from employees. Approach learning about a company as an interesting research project where no detail is too small. Doing this groundwork will allow you to assess if it’s a good fit, align values, and show how you can contribute.

I’ll admit I didn’t always do enough research early on and stumbled in interviews. But being your real self, focused on helping people more than profits, makes connections that the right organization will recognize.

Lou Reverchuk , Co-founder and CEO, EchoGlobal

One very effective tactic when researching the company you are about to interview with is not only studying the company’s history, products, services, and culture but also the company’s competitors to get a broader view of the industry and how the company stands against those competitors.

You can find company intelligence in industry reports, news articles, or in financial statements. This can help you to understand the competitive dynamics, current market trends, or present challenges. A good way to impress the interviewer can be to refer to their competitors and how they might be able to take account of this in the job you are applying for. It would show that you can think strategically and that you tend to be proactive.

An interviewer may ask you to describe some ways you might contribute to the company if you got hired. It’s a way of asking, “What can you do for us?” It can also be a way to determine your motivation and commitment to the company. Answering this question can help build your credibility and show the interviewer that you are excited to help the company grow. Some possible ways you might be able to contribute to the company that you’re interviewing for include bringing in new trends, being knowledgeable about the company, and being innovative.

Blake Smith , Marketing Manager, ClockOn

LinkedIn provides a wealth of information about companies, including their mission, values, products or services, and recent news or updates. Additionally, you can explore the company’s culture page on LinkedIn, which often includes employee testimonials and insights into the work environment. 

Another valuable aspect of LinkedIn is the opportunity to leverage your professional network. If you know anyone, past or present, who has worked at the company, you can reach out to them for insights or information. 

Connecting with current or former employees can provide you with firsthand perspectives on the company’s culture, work environment, and overall experience. They may be able to share valuable insights that go beyond what you can find through public sources. This knowledge will help you prepare for your interview and demonstrate your genuine interest in the company.

Heidi Hauver , Chief People Officer

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• The Pre-Interview Research...

The Pre-Interview Research Checklist

5 min read · Updated on October 12, 2022

Looking for creative ways to research a prospective employer beyond checking out the website? Let us help.

Everyone knows that candidates are supposed to research a company before heading into the interview. However, what exactly does that mean? Is looking up the company's website enough, and if not, how much more should you do?

What amount of research is appropriate and expected isn't just an idle question; candidates are often applying to more than one company. Combine multiple applications with full-time work at the current employer and it's clear that time is limited. How can you structure your research to yield maximum value and give you the edge you need — without spending hours online?

Begin with the company basics

The company website is a great place to start. Keep in mind that, much like your own resume and cover letter, a corporate website presents a professionally-curated image. You will find awards, carefully-worded brand messaging, feedback from happy customers, and other strategically-developed materials. That is not a negative thing, but it helps to understand why you shouldn't check off the “research” box after this step is completed.

If you are interviewing at a public company, find and read its most recent 10K Annual Report (you will find it under the “Investor” section on the company website, as well as on the  SEC website ). Annual reports may not sound like exciting reading, but they can deliver valuable information about the company's strategy, competitors, performance, risks associated with the business, and much more. Those who are short on time (or who find that reading the entire report cover to cover puts them to sleep) should focus their attention on management discussion and market segment sections.  

If you are interviewing at a startup,  Crunchbase will provide similar information about funding rounds, recent hires, company news, etc.

Next, look at social media

Most companies these days have a social media presence.  LinkedIn should be your first stop . Look up the company profile, as well as the profiles of key executives. You may also want to look for the head of the department you would be reporting to, as well as the person you will be interviewing with. If the corporate or individual pages include links to published articles, you can get a glimpse into “hot button” issues for the company. Take note, as these make excellent ideas for interview questions.

Other social media websites, including Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and messaging sites like Telegram , may offer different angles on the company and the people who work there. What do they choose to post about? How do they interact with customers? Do you see incessant advertising? Is the content reflective of thought leadership? Be sure to take notes so that you can easily refresh your memory prior to the interview.  

Run an internet search

A quick online search will produce a list of press releases, articles that mention the company, interviews with executives, and much more. If you are interested in a specific company and have some lead time before the interview, you may consider creating a news alert for the company name, as well as the names of key executives. When new materials that meet your search criteria are published, you will automatically get an email with the link.

Check company reviews online

Glassdoor.com has both positive and negative feedback from current and past employees for thousands of companies. Think of it as a virtual water cooler and gossip room. Reading Glassdoor reviews and comments can be insightful, entertaining, and thought-provoking. On that note, remember that Glassdoor allows its contributors to remain anonymous. Most users are honest, but virtually everything you read on Glassdoor is self-reported, subjective, and hard to verify. Look for patterns without focusing on any one experience and maintain a measure of professional skepticism no matter what you read.

On that note, you may get more reliable feedback by reaching out to the company's vendors and customers. This may not apply in every industry, but if you are able to connect with real people who interact with the company you are interested in, you can get a valuable look behind the curtain.

Don't neglect human research

Social media and internet research will only get you so far. Successful candidates find that LinkedIn and other virtual connections are most powerful when used as a stepping stone to real conversations. Look for professionals who have worked in the company and are open to speaking with you. Come prepared with questions, use their time wisely, and remember to send a thank-you note after the conversation — no matter how brief.

Your checklist for acing the pre-interview research

As you plan your deep-dive into the company website, LinkedIn, and other sites, remember that this research phase of the job-search process isn't just a fact-collecting assignment. Research should solidify your decision to pursue the opportunity — or give you warning that this position isn't right for you.

Look for patterns in everything. Based on the track record of individuals in leadership positions, what skills and experiences do the company value? What can you deduce about its culture? In a perfect world, the research you do should fuel your excitement about the company and energize you for the interview!

You've done your research, now make sure you can answer the questions. Learn more about our interview-coaching services .

Recommended Reading:

Interview Deal-Breakers That Could Cost You the Job

How to Prepare for a Software Engineering Job Interview

Struggling with Interview Anxiety? Here's How to Overcome It

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The 8 Best Questions to Ask in an Informational Interview

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9 Essential Things to Research Before a Job Interview

You have worked hard to earn your degree, and now you find yourself looking for a career. However, there is another challenge to face: the job interview. The first step to preparing for an interview with a company is to do some research. If your interviewers see that you have done your research, then they will appreciate that you have a genuine interest in working for them.

When you interview with a company, preparation is vital. The knowledge you gain before an interview can give you an advantage over other applicants and determine your overall success.

The Company

First, check the company’s website. The “About Us” section is a good introduction to the company’s history and work. Also, look at the company’s Mission Statement. A mission statement refers to the company’s founding, purpose, and values. So, if a company pledges to do charity work, mention your interest in this in the interview.

The Position

The more you know about the position, the better you can express your qualifications. If the position requires you to be a mentor to other employees, then you can mention how you mentored younger students in your program. This type of leadership is something companies look for.

Here are some questions to ask yourself as you research:

• What are the essential job requirements?
• What are the qualifications?
• Who will be your supervisor?

These questions will help you learn whether this is the right position for you.

The Interview Team

It is good to know  people at the company , especially the interview team. This will give you an advantage in establishing common ground. For example, if you share a similar school or work experiences, you can mention this to make a connection and display your strengths.

Gain the Extra Advantage

Remember: You are not the only person being interviewed. So, you need to do everything you can do to gain an advantage and set yourself apart from everyone else.

Company Culture

You feel like you are qualified for this position. However, would you be a good fit within the company culture?

Check the  company’s social media pages . This will give you more familiarity with the company and make you more comfortable in the interview. Does the company share videos and photos of office events and company outings? Often, the more social a company is, the better the company culture. Once you gather this information, you can explain to the interviewers how you would be a good fit –  not just as a person but as an employee.

Recent News

Research current news about the company. Most companies have a page on their website that lists press releases and events. Showing that you are knowledgeable about the company will make an excellent impression. For example, if the company launched a new product, you should discuss your views on it and how you will contribute to its success.

Important Business Information

Products and Services

You should know what products and services are related to the position. For example, for a pharmaceutical company, you will need to know the different medicines and services you will be working with. This will give you a better opportunity to describe your qualifications and experiences.

A big part of understanding your role within the company is to know its client base. Who uses the company’s products and services? Who is the focus of the company’s marketing strategies? Since this will be an integral part of your job, you should display this knowledge in the interview.

Industry and Competitors

It is important to know about the  industry, competitors, and challenges the company is facing. For example, does the company have public relations concerns? Is the company growing? You can offer your thoughts on how to meet new challenges. It shows that you are a forward thinker and problem solver.

Unique Selling Proposition

A Unique Selling Proposition (USP)  is the unique benefit that a company offers to make it stand out from its competitors. The USP must highlight how a product or service benefits clients and customers. Discussing this information in the interview will show the company that you have already begun thinking like an employee.

What are your experiences with a job search? Have you prepared for an interview and done the research mentioned above? Please share your thoughts in the comments section.

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How to Research a Company for an Interview: 10 Steps

By Biron Clark

Published: November 8, 2023

Interview Preparation

Biron Clark

Writer & Career Coach

In the next 10 minutes, I’m going to show you exactly how to research a company for your job interview.

You want to go into the interview feeling ready and confident, and you don’t want to embarrass yourself.

That’s what good pre-interview research can do for you.

But what’s the fastest and easiest way to get enough information about a company to avoid interview mistakes and make a great first impression? And what exactly should you be researching?

Keep reading for everything you need to know…

How to Research a Company for a Job Interview

1. research the company website.

Go to the business’ website and find out about what products or services they provide. What do they sell and how do they make money? Why might the company’s clients choose them?

Learn anything you can about the company culture , too. Click buttons like “About Us” or “Meet Our Team” when you’re on the company website.

Then visit their “Careers” section to see what jobs are posted in general. Make sure you’re familiar with the job description and get a feel for the other jobs they’re hiring for.

Finally, see if the company has a mission statement. Knowing the company’s mission will help you understand what they care most about, so that you can show these traits in the job interview.

This is the longest step in the process of researching a company, but it’ll give you a ton of information you can use in your answers, and knowing more about them will help you explain why you wanted to apply for the job .

2. Search Google News for Recent Company Developments

This is a relatively short step, but still important for how to research a company before your interview.

As you conduct company research, go to Google News to read some recent developments and press releases, so you can get a sense of what the company is working on.

Find a piece of good news, a recent change, acquisition or new project, or anything else you can find about the company online.

You’ll notice more info available for large companies, but you may still find valuable news articles and stories for smaller companies, too.

Your goal in this research, for each of your target companies, is to find one action they took recently that you can ask about in the interview.

For example, you’d ask, “I read you recently did ___, can you tell me more about that?”

They’ll be impressed that you know the latest news about them.

Most job seekers are asking boring, generic questions in the interview (like, “What is your company’s mission?”)

So if you can ask a question about a recent news story, it’s going to set you apart.

Here are 27 more unique questions job seekers can ask in the interview.

That brings me to one other piece of job search and career advice: Never ask a question that could be answered on the company’s website.

3. Review the Company’s Social Media Accounts

Next, research the company’s Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and other social profiles to see recent news you might have missed on Google News in step 2. You might see pictures of employee outings too, etc. You’ll get a great sense of the company culture and the type of people who work there.

This will give you more fuel and ideas for questions you can ask in the interview too.

For example, you could ask, “I saw on Facebook you recently had a company charity event. Can you tell me about what else the company does to facilitate team-building and/or charitable giving in the community? It’s great that those are a part of your company’s values. That’s something I’m looking for in an employer.”

You can also look for the company on YouTube. Do a quick search and see if they have a channel.

More and more companies are sharing video content, so this is a worthwhile step in terms of how to research a company very thoroughly before you talk to them.

You might also see their office in a video which will make you more comfortable when you arrive for an interview. You’ll feel like you’ve been there before.

4. Competitor Research

If you really want to impress the company with how much you researched them before the interview, head over to similarweb.com , type the company name or website into the search bar, and then find the button that says “similar sites”.

Click it and you’ll see companies that are similar to the company you’re interviewing at. Try to find a few key differences and similarities, so you can show you understand the whole marketplace and industry, not just the company you’re interviewing with.

If you do this, most hiring managers will be VERY impressed.

If you’re interviewing in a new industry this becomes even more important. But it’s a great step for anyone who wants to research a company before a job interview.

5. Research Employees on LinkedIn

Search on LinkedIn to find employees of the company. Better yet, find people in the same type of group or role that you’re interviewing for. What type of background do they have? You might spot a trend for the type of person a company likes to hire.

This research will help you understand what the company looks for in the hiring process, so that you’ll be better prepared for questions they throw at you in the interview.

LinkedIn isn’t just a great job search resource , it’s also a powerful research tool. If you don’t already have an account that’s active and up-to-date, you should definitely make one. If you’re not convinced, here are 5 reasons you should use LinkedIn .

6. Research the Hiring Manager

Next, use LinkedIn to research the hiring manager’s background.

How long have they been with the company?

What’s their educational background?

What previous jobs have they worked to get to the point they’re at?

This is a great way to prepare to pass your interview . You might even see something you have in common with the hiring manager, such as a sport you played in college.

And if not, you’ll still know more about them than most candidates going in for the interview. So it’ll be easier to bond and build rapport, or talk about topics that they’re familiar with.

7. Industry Research

Next, if you’re attending a job interview in an unfamiliar industry, you should go beyond researching the company and also dig into the industry overall.

Browse social media accounts of other businesses in the industry, read a few trade publications online, see what types of jobs are posted in this industry, and more.

What types of products and services does the industry provide in general?

What are some of the latest developments happening?

What are some common types of jobs in the industry?

You can look at industry news in Google, check company social media accounts, and more to gather this information.

8. Research the Company’s Job Interview Process

There are a variety of websites that allow job seekers to write about their job search experience and which interview questions they faced. So I recommend searching Google for terms like “<Company Name> interview questions” and “<Company Name> interview process.”

You won’t find information about this for every employer, but you should find some hints about the interview process for most large employers, which can be a big aid in your job search.

Then, you’ll know how to better prepare for your job interview to show you’re a fit for the company’s culture and role.

9. Read Employee Reviews

Next, consider visiting a site like Glassdoor.com to read reviews from current and past employees.

This may give you more hints about how the company operates, which will help you prepare great interview answers.

You’ll also gain valuable information to help you decide if you do or don’t want to work for this company!

You may spot a red flag or two that you’d like to ask about in the interview.

You wouldn’t have found this on a casual visit to the company’s website. So reading reviews from real employees will give you a better understanding of what your life will be like if you accept their job.

Those are the best steps you can take for pre-interview company research. I recommend doing everything above if you have time.

10. Additional Research for Public Companies

If a company is publicly traded, it must release an annual report, quarterly financial statements, and more.

You can see their stock price, read recent stock news, and more.

For public companies, you’ll often see an “investor relations” button when you visit the company website (usually in the site footer).

You can also search for the company name on a website like Google Finance to read about their financial health and explore recent financial data and statements.

This doesn’t need to be an in-depth, time-consuming step when researching a company, but it’s worth noting whether they’re publicly traded or not, and how the company’s stock is doing.

Final Step: Review Your Company Research

Now you know what to research about a company before the interview.

As a final step, make sure you can answer these questions about a company:

• Who is the CEO ?
• When/why was the company founded?
• Does the company have one or multiple locations? And where are they headquartered?
• How does the company make money? What do they sell and who is their typical customer?
• Why do their customers choose them?
• How are they different from their competitors?
• How would you describe the company culture?
• Does the company have a mission statement or a reason why they were founded?
• What do you know about the hiring manager’s background? How long have they been with the company?

Use that as a checklist to make sure you’ve researched the company enough before your interview.

Now that you know how to research a company before a job interview, you’re going to be able to make a better impression on recruiters and hiring managers, and turn more interviews into job offers !

About the Author

Read more articles by Biron Clark

2 thoughts on “How to Research a Company for an Interview: 10 Steps”

This was VERY resourceful. Thanks so much for the helpful tips.

Great list. Thank you!

Comments are closed.

30+ Best Tips on How to Prepare for a Job Interview

Preparing for an interview requires more effort than just Googling a list of common interview questions (though, yes, you should 100% be ready for those). In today’s job market, recruiters are flooded with resumes and applications within hours of a post going live, so if you manage to land a meeting, it’s worth putting in the time to ensure you ace it.

Every company has a different process for interviewing potential candidates—and to some degree, that process is unpredictable. For instance, even if you find a ton of sample interview questions for that specific organization, there’s no guarantee you’ll be asked the exact same ones.

The goal of interview prep is to learn and practice as much as possible so you can feel confident and ready for anything (even questions you don’t have an answer to, which we’ll discuss how to handle later on).

To help you prepare, we compiled a list of our all-time best interview tips—backed by some of the most highly regarded career guides, creators, and advisors out there today. We’ve got 30 plus tips on this list, so strap in, take some notes, and prepare to nail your interview.

1. Research the company

This is first on the list for a reason: It is the single most important step of the interview prep process. You want to research everything about the company from as many sources as you can—including their company profile on The Muse , if they have one! Talk to people in your network to find current and previous employees, read current news stories, and spend time on their website.

“I always tell people to read the company website, including their mission, careers page, and case studies. Then, Google the company to see if they've been in the news recently. If you can ask about those things in an interview, that’s so impressive to the company,” says Erin McGoff, founder of AdviceWithErin .

By looking at multiple sources, you’ll get a broader picture of the organization (along with any negative press), and be ready to talk about why you’d like to work there and what you can do for them.

2. Read the job description carefully

Most organizations use the job description to explain exactly what they're looking for in an applicant—so before your interview, make sure you know said job description almost by heart.

Internalize its key details and try to incorporate them into your answers. “This not only shows that you're well prepared but also that you're a good cultural fit for the company,” says Christian Lovell, of Careers by Chris .

3. Try out the company’s product or service

If the company you’re interviewing with sells a product that you can feasibly check out ahead of time, try it before the interview. For a publisher, purchase a few of their magazines or books and give them a read. If you’re interviewing for a job in retail, engage with some of the goods they sell.

Whatever role you’re applying for, it’s likely that part of your job will be creating value for the people who use that product. So, experiencing it for yourself is a smart move. Plus, it’ll help show the hiring manager that you’re truly interested in the position.

4. Learn about the interviewers

If you can figure out who you’ll be speaking to before the interview, you can do some research on them as well. And if your point of contact doesn’t mention names, it’s totally reasonable to ask for them. Learn about their trajectory at the company and prepare specific questions for them.

During the interview itself, you can ask for details about their role, discuss current events in their field, or bring up a common interest. Just make sure the info you’re referencing is in an easily accessible, public spot, like their company bio or LinkedIn profile, so it doesn’t come off as creepy.

5. Find out the interview type and prepare accordingly

Depending on what role you’re applying for and how far along you are in the process, you might be signing up for a traditional phone call , video interview , or in-person meeting

If the recruiter or HR manager doesn’t specify this, feel free to ask. Also note that some companies might have you meet individually with several different people, while others could arrange group sessions or request an interview presentation .

6. Identify your selling points for this job

Even if you’re a well-oiled interviewing machine, it’s essential to spend time thinking carefully about what skills, accomplishments, and answers will resonate most with your interviewers for this job. Your management abilities? Your creativity? Sam DeMase, founder of A Power Mood , calls these your “superpowers.”

“Know your superpowers before you go into any interview, a.k.a. your value propositions, and how to articulate them,” says DeMase. “Once I figured out how to do that, interviews became very easy for me because I had the confidence to go in and say exactly what I’m good at. I know how to articulate it and sell it.”

7. Be ready to tell the interviewer about yourself

For every interview, you’ll want to have an answer to the most asked question ever: “ Tell me about yourself .” Your response to this should be tailored to the specific job and company you’re interviewing for, and you should know it by heart.

Interviewers almost always ask this question or a similar one—like “ Walk me through your resume ”—to start off the conversation, so you want to make sure you’re getting started on the right foot.

This is one spot where people tend to ramble, and you want to avoid that at all costs. “Treat interviews like conversations,” says Lovell. “You don’t want to give a one sentence answer and stare at them, but you also don’t want to share your whole life story.”

DeMase recommends using her W.A.T. method—which stands for “What you do, your achievements, and tie it into the role”—to answer the "Tell me about yourself" question. “It boils down to a quick elevator pitch,” she says. “It’s not a whole walkthrough of your resume, and it’s not a walkthrough of your last job.”

8. Know why you’re interested in this position

Hiring managers are looking for people who are passionate about—or at least seem interested in—the role. You will almost certainly be asked “Why are you interested in working here,” or “Why are you interested in this role,” and similar to the above tip, you should have a go-to pitch.

Get specific. What about the role calls to you? And the company? What aspects of the work feel exciting to you? Being able to communicate this succinctly and with a positive attitude will go a long way.

9. Do some salary research

During the first interview, which is typically a phone screen with a recruiter or someone else in HR, you may be asked about your salary expectations . Most experts will advise against giving a hard number, the reason being that you’ll often lowball yourself and providing a specific figure can compromise your negotiating power.

Instead, you could ask about the position's salary range during the interview and then decide if it works for you. But to make an informed decision—that aligns with the market rate for this kind of job—do a bit of salary research ahead of time.

10. Prepare your stories

Most interviewers will ask at least a few behavioral questions , which are questions about how you’ve acted or would act in certain scenarios. It's unlikely to anticipate every possible situation, so prepare a few stories from your past work experiences that could be adapted as needed.

DeMase has another method for answering behavioral questions, known as the “CARE” method —which stands for Context, Action, Result, and Evolution.

“This is the most clutch part of the interview, so you have to be ready with your examples,” she says. “That way, when they ask about a time when your client was difficult, a time you disagreed with your boss, or a time you made a mistake, you have those answers ready and you can tell the story in a way that shows what you learned.”

11. Familiarize yourself with the STAR method

Another helpful acronym is the popular STAR method of answering questions—which stands for Situation, Task, Action, Result.

Whenever you’re answering interview questions with a story, you want to make sure that the narrative is well-structured and the takeaway is clear. Your goal is to give the interviewer all the context needed to understand what happened while still answering the question clearly and concisely.

An example of the STAR method in practice is:

• Situation: Briefly lay out the scenario using just enough detail to make the interviewer understand the stakes and everything else in your answer;
• Task: Talk about what was your role in the situation;
• Action: Discuss what you did and why;
• Result : Tell your interviewer about the outcome and what you learned.

It’s worth noting that for some questions you might want to tweak this structure slightly. For example, if you’re talking about a time you demonstrated leadership skills , consider defining what leadership means to you before jumping into the situation. But the STAR method will ensure your stories always have a beginning, middle, and end.

13. Or try the PAR method

If the STAR method feels a bit too repetitive in your interviews, Christian Lovell encourages job candidates to try the PAR method—Problem, Action, Result.

“You want things to be as simple and streamlined as possible because everyone has nerves when they're going into an interview,” says Lovell. “Even I still get a little bit nervous!”

The PAR Method breaks down into the following:

• Problem: What was the problem?
• Action: What did you do?
• Result: What was the result?

This is an easy-to-remember structure that succinctly, but completely, answers the interviewer’s question.

14. Jot down any important numbers and details you find

While you’re doing your interview prep, write down some revenue figures, engagement numbers, budget or team sizes, percentages of time saved, or anything else you can use to communicate your impact in previous roles.

Throwing in some hard numbers when discussing responsibilities and accomplishments can show to a hiring manager that you’re good at what you do. Even writing them down on a post-it can serve as a quick reference during the interview.

Read more: How to Quantify Your Resume Bullets (When You Don't Work With Numbers)

15. Brush up on your interview skills

How you respond to interview questions is important, but it’s not everything. Hiring managers are also consciously—or subconsciously—picking up on how well you use other skills, such as active listening, small talk, and empathy.

“Recruiters are also looking to see if you're a good fit for the team, and if you are someone that they would want to work with,” says Lovell. “So I tell people to let their personality shine a little bit in their interviews.”

16. Practice—but don’t memorize—your answers

Yes, there are many common interview questions to prepare for, but if you memorize them verbatim, your responses may come out sounding robotic. Instead, jot down a few notes or bullet points and keep them on hand for the interview itself. That way, you’ll ensure to cover the bases without reading from a script.

Also, practice looking in the mirror and answering them out loud. This prep work will help you clarify your thoughts and make you much more comfortable during the interview.

17. Think about body language

While we may think we’re relatively aware of our bodies, it’s a good idea to brush up on what certain body language conveys before an interview. Your posture and stance can communicate a lot—and you want to make sure it’s all positive. (For example, sitting with arms and legs crossed sends a message that you are closed-off or feel defensive.)

Think your movements through ahead of time so you’re not distracted (or distracting) during the interview. If on video, consider how to show active engagement in that format—putting the Zoom window near the camera to avoid looking away from the interviewer, for example, or making non-verbal gestures to indicate that you’re listening without cutting off their microphone.

18. Try some mock interviews

If you have the time, do a few mock interviews with a friend, loved one, or even a career coach. Mock interviews are the best way to practice your tone, body language, and general preparation, plus you’ll become much better at answering, “What would you bring to the position?” This will also allow you to iron out the small details, like where you want to put your hands or how you want to sit.

19. Write down questions you’ll ask them

Most recruiters will wrap up with the interview asking if you have questions for them, and you should absolutely have at least a few prepared. “I recommend three to five questions—ideally five, in case they answer some of your questions during the interview,” says McGoff.

You can start with this list of interview questions to ask , but you should also plan some additional questions. “Make them really specific to the role and company,” McGoff adds. “If they had a merger recently, ask how that’s affected the culture. You could ask them what workflow systems they use or how they measure performance. Act like it’s your first day on the job, and think about what questions you would have.”

Also, be sure to ask questions you actually want the answers to. “A big mistake is trying to ask questions that you think the interviewer wants to hear. How can you use that final parting moment as a way to make yourself stand out? Rather than asking a question aimed at trying to seem like the smartest person on earth, I'd recommend showing that you're a curious person who genuinely wants to learn more about a certain area of the company," says Natalie Marie, of Corporate Natalie .

One particular question I love is: ‘What would a day-in-my-life look like once I'm onboarded?’ Of course this varies by industry, but the final part of an interview is a great way to ask questions that spark an interesting conversation with your interviewer.”

20. Plan for what you’ll do if you’re caught off-guard

You can’t prepare for everything, but you can prepare to handle the unexpected—like an interview question you don’t know how to answer . Most experts say to keep your cool and not be afraid to take a moment to think.

“Take a moment to think and embrace silence. It’s OK to think and even repeat the question out loud,” McGoff says. “You can take a sip of water, or say ‘that’s a great question, let me think about that for a second.’ If you’ve blanked on the answer, you can even ask to come back to it. If they’re professional, they should be totally fine with that.”

21. Prepare for technical interviews or skill tests

If you’re getting ready for a technical interview or you’ve been told there will be a skill test, start preparing as early as possible. Working through a prep book or sample questions will not only provide good practice but also put you in the right problem-solving mindset.

Once you’ve prepped for the content of your interview, it’s time to make sure you walk in looking put together and feeling confident.

22. Figure out what to wear

Unless you’re prepping for a phone interview, you’ll need to take your physical appearance into account. “It’s really important to plan what your outfit is going to be, and you want to make sure it’s professional and clean,” McGoff says.

If you aren’t sure what to wear, you can check out a company’s social media or their Muse profile to see how employees typically dress. Generally, it's recommended to present yourself a bit more professionally than on a typical workday. For example, for a casual environment, business casual is appropriate for an interview.

23. Look appropriate and professional

When it comes to appearance, the smallest details can make the biggest difference. Ensure your outfit is cleaned, ironed or steamed, and tailored if needed. Polish shoes, check for loose hems, and make sure your fingernails look neat.

Do a little pampering, because looking your best helps you feel your best—and that may mean needing a haircut, shave, or even a new interview outfit. Remember: Confidence in yourself is key to landing a job.

24. Print out copies of your resume

For in-person interviews, bring at least enough copies of your resume for everyone you’re meeting with, plus one. (It never hurts to have a few extra copies, just in case.) However, if you have a phone or video interview it can still be useful to print out a hard copy of your resume so you can refer back to it.

25. Prepare a reference list

It’s always smart to prepare a reference list before your interview, whether asked for it or not. For each reference, include a name, title, organization, division or department, telephone number, and email address, as well as a sentence briefly explaining the relationship (e.g., “Carlton was my team leader for two years, during which we collaborated on four major product launches”).

For an in-person interview, print out a hard copy, and for any later-round interview, make sure you’re ready to send off the file as soon as asked for it.

26. Test any needed tech

For Zoom and phone interviews, make sure that all the needed hardware, software, and network connections are working as expected. If you can use headphones with a microphone, do so, and ensure they’re connected before the interview begins.

“A bad WiFi connection or a distracting background can really hurt your chances, so test that ahead of time,” says McGoff.

27. Pack your bag in advance

Whatever purse, backpack, or briefcase you carry should be large enough to hold your everyday essentials, plus interview musts, such as extra resumes and a notepad. We recommend packing a small emergency kit for unexpected situations (think: Band-Aids, a stain stick, an umbrella, and breath mints).

Here’s a general checklist of what to bring to an interview so you’re super prepared. And clean out that bag! If you have to dig past candy wrappers, phone chargers, and old receipts to get that resume, you’re going to look a little disorganized.

28. Plan how you’re getting there

Whether driving or taking public transportation, look up your route ahead of time (including parking if necessary). Buy any needed tickets, add money to your metro card, fill up your gas tank—take care of anything that could slow you down on the way to the interview.

Know how long it should take you to get there and add plenty of extra time for potential traffic or transit delays. And above all, make sure to confirm the location with your point of contact, in case there are multiple offices in the same city.

29. Prepare your environment

For remote interviews, ensure your environment is quiet and free of distractions. Lay out anything you'll need to reference during the interview in front of you, along with a notepad, working pen, and beverage.

“You want a good location that is quiet with a strong WiFi connection and good lighting,” says McGoff. For video interviews, you’ll also need to pay attention to what’s going on behind you, so choose a plain or non-distracting background to sit in front of and make sure your shot is free of clutter and well lit ahead of time.

30. Fill in an interview cheat sheet

Remember study guides in school? An interview cheat sheet is sort of the same. It's a way to compile all the details you want to remember, jot down notes about what you want to say and ask, and check off all the essentials for the meeting. Print one out for every interview, read it over the morning of, and you’ll be good to go!

31. Get a good night’s sleep

Don’t underestimate the power of a good night of sleep—and likewise, don’t underestimate how much a bad night’s sleep can impact you. Sleep plays a key role in memory retention and attention span, so you want to clock at least seven to eight hours the night before a big interview. Start winding down for bed earlier than usual, and pack everything so you’re ready to go in the morning.

32. Calm your nerves and/or get psyched

Immediately before the interview (or as close to the moment as possible), get yourself in the right headspace. Expect to be nervous and plan ahead of time to use whatever tools you need. These methods are different for everyone, so think through what will be most beneficial and effective for you.

Perhaps you need to do some breathing exercises or give yourself a pep talk in your car. Whatever helps you get prepared to go into the interview confident, calm, positive, and ready to ace it.

“I tell people to put on their favorite song,” says DeMase. “Play it through your headphones and crank up the volume—this will help you get into the mindset. You want a song that makes you feel good and confident, that will hype you up before the interview. You can read your notes before going in, but you don’t want to be stuck in your head.”

Read more: 12 Different Ways to Calm Your Interview Nerves (Because You've Got This)

A final word on how to prepare for an interview

Interview preparation takes a good chunk of time and a lot of effort, but it’s all in the name of equipping you with the confidence needed to nail all of your interviews. With the right mindset, and these tips in tow, you’re well on your way to securing a new job.

How to Nail your next Technical Interview

You may be missing out on a 66.5% salary hike*, nick camilleri, how many years of coding experience do you have, free course on 'sorting algorithms' by omkar deshpande (stanford phd, head of curriculum, ik).

The Complete Guide to Researching a Company Before an Interview

Last updated by Ashwin Ramachandran on Apr 01, 2024 at 01:15 PM | Reading time: 20 minutes

If you're coming to do an interview with me, you should know about me. – WizKid

Jill is interviewing at a big social media company for the role of a backend developer. She's pumped, eager, and raring to go. She's taken mock interview sessions and knows her domain of work like the back of her hand.

She pretty much feels she can clinch the job pretty comfortably.

When she gets to the interview, however, she is asked one question that throws her off guard.

'So, Jill, tell us what you know about our company?'

Jill is visibly perturbed. She knows only the very basics, so she wings it and tells them what she knows about the organization. But the interviewer probes a little deeper. He wants to know the number of projects they have been involved in, and the latest steps they've taken to gather more advertisers. Jill is lost and begins to fumble. It's apparent she doesn't know jack about the company.

To the interviewer, it shows a lack of interest and disrespect to the company itself.

The interview is as good as over.

Jill should have researched the company as assiduously as possible. Why? When you go to work for someone, you should know everything about them so that you are confident your goals are aligned.

If only Jill had taken some interview prep courses where they would have taught her the importance of researching a company thoroughly, she wouldn't have had to go through the disappointment of losing a golden opportunity.

Here's what you will find in this article!

Why is it a good idea to research a company before going for an interview?

Advantages of researching the company before going for an interview

How to perform research on a company

Final step: The complete checklist before you hit the interview

Tools for researching companies

How to prepare for technical interview

Researching about the company should be a part of your pre-interview preparation. It shows commitment, eagerness and willingness to become part of the family, and that is something employers are seeking.

As a person looking for employment, you should realize that the competition is cut-throat and only the very best of the crop are gleaned from working at prestigious companies. If you want to be a part of them, you must take pre-interview preparation very seriously. Google interview questions, along with doing your research on the company and practice answering these points at home.

One of the rudiments of pre-interview preparation is to learn everything about the company at which you were going to interview. Doing so signals many more in-depth notions about you.

Firstly, it shows that you want to work with them , not just gain employment.

Next, you will try to fit into their work culture, and understand what that work culture is.

Thirdly, you are interested in sticking around to build a career with them.

• It Shows Excitement for the Job and Company

When you are excited about something, you put your heart, mind and soul into knowing everything there is to know about it. It's the same with a job.

Job research and intimately knowing the company could work in your favor even at a start-up, as the panel will be impressed that you took the time to learn whatever you could about them.

• It Allows You to Answer According to the Company's Needs

Take this as some career advice, which you should keep with you throughout your life:

Employers are looking to hire someone that will fit into their company, and a big part of the interview will be your trying to convince them that you can fit into their team without any hitches.

So, know what you bring to the table and make sure that it is something they are looking for; otherwise, it is just the case of misaligned stars.

For example, if their need is to make websites with a better user experience, then talk about your experience in that particular field. And how would you know that need unless you researched them beforehand?

• It Shows That You Want A Long-Term Career With The Company

There is a significant difference between getting a job and having a career. If you are looking to work for the sake of 'working', it will show in your shoddy researching about the company . But if you want a long-term career with the company that translates into many years of service, then you will go in-depth into the research.

Employers are looking for someone to stick around past the two-year mark. They spend a lot of money on training and hiring you, so they want their money's worth. They will keep a lookout for those who are just there to ride the high tide for a few years and then move on and immediately reject them.

• It Helps You Answer 'Why Do You Want To Work For Us?'

At some level, this question is philosophical. It plumbs the very depths of your soul. Suppose you want to come up with an answer to this question, you have to do your interview preparation . Identify some pain points of the company that you can help to solve.

If it is a web design company that hasn't been doing too well, then say that you can help to design the front end-user experience better so that they perform in this aspect. Remember, the employer knows you need the money, but he or she wants to know how hiring you can help solve their need. They are hiring because they have a big vacuum somewhere in their structure. If you can help fill the vacuum, then it's a date!

That is why researching about the company provides you with information about the various roles they need someone to play and how you can fill that role.

• It Lets You Ask Probing Questions

There comes a time in the interview when the floor is opened to you to ask questions. Do not jeopardize this time. Ask such vital and probing questions that get them to sit up and take notice of you.

Here is where knowing how to research a company comes in handy. If you have done a meticulous study on the company, then you can air the knowledge you have gathered through pertinent, short questions that cut to the heart of the matter.

• It Helps You Know Your Interviewer

As a part of your pre-interview preparation, do some research on the person who will be conducting the interview. That will help you to break the ice and have some common ground on which you can build the interview .

Your interviewer has probably already googled you, so it is all right for you to do the same. Do not, at any cost, sound like a crazy stalker that knows what their favorite breed of dog is or where their children go to school.

Learn something light about them like their alma mater or their favorite football team Keep your pre-interview preparation meticulous but do not border on crazy.

Here are three wacky interview questions meant to tease the interviewee!

• How would you solve this problem if you were from Mars?
• What do you think of garden gnomes?
• Why are maintenance holes round?

Want to find the right job for yourself? A large part of being safely ensconced in a job that you love is to look for the right organization.

You won't fit in everywhere, so look out for those companies that match your goals and outlook.

Here are some tips on how to research a company before you apply for a job there.

• Look for companies that share your values

It is sound career advice to work for people who share the same values as you, as later, during work, there won't be any clashes on morality or ethical issues.

Also, the nature of the work you do should be meaningful to you. If you are not creatively onboard, the job is probably a waste of time for you as your end games do not coincide.

Read the About Us pages of the company and go through the section on goals and outlook. These should give you an idea into what makes them tick, and your interview preparation will become that much easier.

• Look into the employee benefits the company provides

What makes a workplace better than its competitors? It is when the company offers perks and various benefits like flexible work schedules or stock options.

Even something small like a gym or a cafeteria can significantly boost employee retention and make working for them a dream. So do considerable research into the company and find out its various perks and benefits.  

• Learn about how the company makes its money

One of the items to check off your list while researching how to prepare for job interview is to learn how the company of your choice stays in business.

What are they making? Who is buying what they are making? These two are the main questions you should ask.

Following this, there are other questions like: is the company a start-up or an established company? Who are the company's investors, and how does it plan to stay in business in the future?

You will get this information from the public documents that the company releases. Their annual reports are a great source of data as well. Go through these documents and glean as much information you can about their finances.

• Look into the company's leadership

You might have taken technical interview prep mock classes to work in the same company where your coding idols are working. But during your how to research a company, you failed to research the various leaders in that organization adequately. And now find yourself working under a boss that is quite unlike the pioneer that helped to found your company.

To avoid disappointments such as this, research those who hold the top leadership positions in the agency. Visit their social media pages and LinkedIn profiles to see what they post and how they help the field they work in advance

if you are wary, back off immediately. If you are smitten, however, then take the plunge.

• Research the Company's YouTube and Research Employees on LinkedIn

For a better shot at how to research a company , have a look at their YouTube posts. You will know the latest news and updates that the organization has posted. It will help to broaden your view of the set-up and be updated regarding their work.

Even employees' LinkedIn profiles have a great way of giving you clues into the company's social life and work ethic. So before interviewing, check out the firm on LinkedIn and especially check the suggestions. The suggestions are most likely to be the employees.

• Research into news and recent events, local news stories, forums and business journals

A great tip on how to prepare for job interview is to scour the social media handles and the blogs, websites of the organization. Doing so gives you an idea into what the company is recently working on, as well as what their achievements, awards, and latest innovations are.

In addition to this, follow the regular news and find out what others are writing about the company. Read product reviews on forums. With a fine-toothed comb go through the news and see what the most recent developments on the organization are. All this will keep you updated on the happenings.

• Know the company's strong points

You should know how the company stands out among its competitors. Why? Every company looks to be fulfilling a unique market need. If you do not know that, you do not know them.

What are its USPs? What makes it able to withstand the test of time? Read the company's About Us page and understand how well they have managed to stick to their mission and goals.

Sometimes you may even be pointedly asked: Tell us why we are the best cloud computing firm around? At times like this, you must not wonder whether they are the best cloud computing firm or not. You should know .

• Check the financial health of the organization

The financial health profile of every company is out there on their website. All you have to do is access it and draw intelligent conclusions. While no one expects you to know the stock prices, it does help if you know how much money they are bringing in and how much they are spending. Where do they rank on wealth? How much are they projected to grow? Where do their assets stand?

For a start-up use Crunchbase to find out the company's latest stocks and figures, which will help you to speak intelligently on their finances.

• Keep an eye out on  community interaction

To understand the company's tenor, it is best to scour their social media platforms and find out if they are a very professional or quirky in their approach when it comes to interacting with others.

During the interview you can mention that their World Environment's Day greeting was very on point or their opinion on the presidential election was a refreshing viewpoint. Either way, study how they interact and follow suit. Also, learn if the company addresses any complaints made to it or do they flub. Observe and bring it up in the interview.

• Try some new ways to find information

If the traditional spying routes are not yielding any information, then it is time to go undercover. Ask former employees or else the current employees what the work culture is like at that ecommerce set-up. Glassdoor.com is the go-to place to get any news on an organization.

Stories on the work culture are what you are trying to gain, and while it may not come up in the interview, it will be useful for you to know. One of the vital clues it may throw up are the flaws of the company which you can discuss post-interview.

• Find out about the other competitors in the field

When it comes to how to prepare for job interview, one tip is you want to sound more knowledgeable. How can you do that?

It would help if you studied up on the industry as a whole and learnt about their archrivals and upcoming competition. If you can sound like a specialist, then you can convincingly answer the question "why do you want to work at our company and not at so-and-so?"

When they ask you this question, you can accurately rattle off why you think they are better than their competitors and it what ways.

• Ask your network for opinions

The best way to get accurate discernment into the workplace you hope to join is through people who are already working there. Friends, college alumni and other online contacts can help you to understand the behind-the-scenes of your chosen workplace. Their insider's knowledge can prove invaluable to you.

• Scan the news headlines

Keep a weather eye on the news for any layoffs or mergers that the company might be inking soon. These red flags will help you take a call on whether you want to join them during this period of unrest. Google interview questions but do not forget to check the news!

• Set aside the time necessary to research properly

Researching about the company takes time, and you may not have time to do it. So set aside time before you go to sleep or 20 minutes while on the commute. Here are some details that you should research:

• The company history
• The department for which you want to work
• Work culture
• Business model
• Figure out the type of company you want to work for

Are you interested in social media companies or hardcore tech and network solutions companies or ecommerce firms? Before you learn how to prepare for job interview, you should take time to understand the domain in which you want to specialize. The rest of your career trajectory depends on the choices you make today, so choose wisely.

• Air your knowledge at strategic points

While you may have done a lot of research, there are specific moments in the interview when you should air this knowledge. Usually, when they ask you: "do you have any questions for us?" is an excellent time to ask your questions. Another strategic time to ask questions is when they ask you your strengths or why they should hire you. Cleverly weave in some projects they are working on, and say that you are an expert in those subjects, so the fit is just right.

Image Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/KdeqA3aTnBY

Here is a final checklist you should tick off before you head out to any interview.

• Who is the company's CEO?

Can you answer this one before heading out the door? If you cannot, please take a moment. You need to recheck the company's LinkedIn profile or its Twitter account. If the company is a start-up, then ask the person who introduced you to the job to tell you this piece of information.

• When and why was the company founded?

While this may not be such an essential question for start-ups, it is a pretty important question for those big boys you want to play with. They have been around longer, and it is quite a logical segue to know how many years they have been in the business. Also, find out what was their philosophy before starting up.

• Do they have global or countrywide locations? If so, where.

This tidbit is vital to know so that you are aware of how many countries they are presently working in.

• For which location are you interviewing?

Many times it happens that the interview is being held at one place for a different location. To avoid this misunderstanding, be aware of which branch you are interviewing.

• How do they make their income? Are they selling products or services? What's their target audience?

To easily answer this question, you should be able to know the company's business model and how they make their money. Also, know these questions : What are they selling? Services or products? Who is their target customer?

• Why do their customers like them?

If you can answer this question, you will have a happy board of interviewers. They'd like to know that you have gone through the extra bit of effort to find out why they have satisfied customers and repeat clients.

• How is the company different from its competitors?

Knowing how a company stands out from its competitors proves that you have researched the whole field of work and are eager to take your place as a worthy foot soldier.

There are several tools to research companies. They include a variety of online and offline tools. Here is a quick guide:

• Use social media handles like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram
• LinkedIn profile of their employees
• Reviews on Glassdoor.com
• Check the company's website
• Google News
• Similarweb.com

Take any interview preparation seriously. You have got only one shot, so make it matter. You should know that you have done the best preparation possible and are giving it your 100%.

For the technical round though, you may have to take additional coding interview preparation to really be at the top of the game.

For your convenience, you may also Google interview questions that are commonly asked and prepare those.

But for the class-leading FAANG companies, you should consider technical interview prep mock classes.

These classes will polish you off, and that will help you to stand out among your competitors. Such interview prep courses have a sharp insight into the type of questions that are commonly asked at these interviews. Knowing the questions in advance will boost your chances of answering better.

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How to Prepare for an Interview (Step-By-Step Guide)

Mike Simpson 0 Comments

By Mike Simpson

If you want to land a job, there’s one hurdle you’re essentially guaranteed to face: the interview . After all, hiring managers don’t choose a candidate based on their resume alone in nearly all cases. They want to meet the candidate and learn more about what they bring to the table. And, if you’re going to impress, knowing how to prepare for an interview is a must.

Overall, companies may receive 250 resumes for a single corporate job. Then, they’ll usually invite four to six candidates in for an interview , only one of which will actually get hired.

By preparing for your interview, you’re honing valuable skills that increase your odds of shining during the meeting. Additionally, you’re making sure your interview strategy is on point, and that you’ve learned critical information that can help you stand out.

If you want to make sure you’re on the path toward success, here’s what you need to know about how to prepare for an interview.

What Does “Being Prepared for an Interview” Really Mean?

For many, the idea of being prepared for anything is a bit ambiguous.

Is there a specific point that separates the prepared from the ill-prepared? Do you have to dedicate a certain number of hours to the process of getting ready? Is there a critical step you have to make to cross the threshold?

Technically, the answer to those questions is “no.” In many cases, being prepared means you’ve done some due diligence. You know how to talk about your achievements in a way that entices the hiring manager. You can sprinkle in relevant tidbits of information based on research.

Essentially, being prepared means you’ve taken whatever steps were necessary to set yourself up for success, allowing you to arrive at your interview brimming with confidence. You’ve dedicated time and attention to the process.

Even if the idea of being prepared isn’t highly defined, that doesn’t mean you can’t do what it takes to make it happen. By following the right steps – which we’ll cover in a moment – you can do proper laser focused research , prepare and practice relevant and engaging answers , and increase your odds of handling even the trickiest questions with ease .

Common Interview Preparation Mistakes to Avoid

When it comes to preparing for an interview, the biggest mistake you can make is not doing it at all. Even if you’re a highly-skilled professional overflowing with potential and natural poise, you can’t assume that is enough.

On average, it takes five job interviews before you’ll land a job.

Wow, right?

Plus, 57 percent of professionals say they’ve had a job interview go poorly. That’s more than half of all professionals, people who know their jobs well and are likely at least reasonably successful.

An interview isn’t like a normal conversation with a colleague. Instead, you’re being tested, put on the spot, and asked (in a way) to defend your resume. Some questions are designed to put you back on your heels. Others are so open-ended, that it’s easy to drift off-topic.

Preparation allows you to be at your best when that fateful interview day arrives. You’ll have great answers just waiting to be deployed, and a strategy that can help you navigate the unexpected. In turn, you’ll be more likely to succeed, making all of the effort worthwhile.

However, that’s not the only misstep aspiring new hires make. Choosing the wrong mock interview questions can also hurt you. For example, some candidates spend all of their time on generic interview questions . Sure, you need to be ready for classics like, “ Tell me about yourself ” and “ What motivates you? ” but you also need to be prepared to face off against field- or job-specific ones , too.

Similarly, failing to talk about critical traits in your answers can work against you . During an interview, you can’t, for example, simply claim you’re detail-oriented. Instead, you have to show that you’re detail-oriented , highlighting the capability by discussing an accomplishment.

Finally, one of the surprising mistakes a candidate make is not enlisting the help of a trusted friend, family member, or colleague. Having someone else ask you the practice interview questions and getting feedback on your answers – including the responses themselves, your body language, and anything else – is ridiculously valuable. It allows you to really hone your approach, ensuring you can make the best impression possible.

We also wanted to let you know that we created an amazing free cheat sheet that will give you word-for-word answers for some of the toughest interview questions you are going to face in your upcoming interview.

Click below to get your free PDF now:

Get Our Job Interview Questions & Answers Cheat Sheet!

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Follow These Steps to Get Properly Prepared for Your Interview

Alright, now that you know a bit about why preparing for an interview is important, as well as some mistakes to avoid, let’s get down to brass tacks: how to prepare for an interview. After all, knowing you need to do it is only half the battle; you have to follow through, using the right approach, too.

Luckily, we have your back. If you want to blow away the hiring manager, you need to take your interview prep to the next level. Here’s how to do just that:

1. Review the Job Description

The first step you need to take when preparing for an interview is to review the job description . The job description is chocked full of critical details, including the must-have skills and traits the hiring manager needs to find.

Once you bring up the original vacancy announcement, go over it word-by-word. When you spot skills and qualities, consider highlighting them or writing them down in a list. Anything the hiring manager felt was worthy of inclusion will likely come up during your interview.

Essentially, the job description is a cheat sheet. If the hiring manager listed a skill or quality in the job description you should be prepared to show the hiring manager you possess them!

2. Reread Your Resume or Application

Reread your resume? Why would you need to do that? After all, you know your own background, right? Well, sort of.

If you tailor your resume to each job (which you should), and you’ve applied to more than one recently, you may not remember which details you included. That could spell trouble.

You can almost guarantee that the hiring manager is going to talk about your resume. If you forgot which accomplishments you mentioned, you might not prepare to discuss them. Then, if the hiring manager asks – which they almost certainly will – you might give a stumbly answer.

Review your resume! Know what you said! Remember, your resume might be all the hiring manager knows about you, so make sure you can discuss those points with ease.

3. Research the Company

We know, research isn’t always the most fun. But it is nonetheless crucial.

Many hiring managers ask candidates to tell them what they know about the company. If you answer that question with the silence, you can essentially kiss the job goodbye.

Take some time to review the company’s products and services. You need at least a general idea of how the business makes money; that’s a must.

Additionally, head to the company’s website and review its mission and values statements. This gives you major clues about the organization’s priorities and culture. Also, head to the company’s social media page for more insights, as well as details about its recent achievements or newsworthy events.

The more company-specific details you can work into your interview answers, the better. It shows you went the extra mile to learn about them, and that can help you stand out from the crowd.

4. Learn About the Hiring Manager

If you know who will be interviewing you, try to learn a bit about them, too. If you can find out about the hiring manager’s professional history, perspective, and priorities, you can align your approach with their preferences. This makes it easier to find common ground and develop a rapport.

5. Reflect on Your Accomplishments

Now that you have a bit of an idea of what you’ll need to cover, spend a little time reflecting on your achievements. During an interview, you’ll want to show the hiring manager you have what it takes to excel. Typically, that means discussing a relevant accomplishment.

Ideally, you want to identify key moments in your career that showcase you as a great fit. As you reflect, write down the ones that stand out most and that show that you possess the skills and qualities you found on the job description. Those are the accomplishments you want to work into your answers.

6. Quantify the Details

With a few achievements picked out, it’s time to gather some additional details. During an interview, numbers can speak louder than words, so quantify those accomplishments.

At times, this requires a bit of research. You might not remember how big a budget you managed was or how many people ended up using something you developed. Look it up! That way, the information you provide is enticing and accurate.

7. Learn the Types of Interview Questions

At this point, it’s time to start figuring out how to work in relevant details into interview answers. One of the best ways to start is to learn about the different kinds of interview questions.

By refreshing your memory about the types of questions you may encounter, you can start developing a strategy for responding. When a question is straightforward, the process is usually simple. For example, if the hiring manager asks if you have skill X, you start with a “yes” or “no.” When a “yes,” you follow it up with a relevant example of you putting it to use or with details about how you’ve honed it. Done.

If you need to say “no,” you’ll need a different approach. Pivot by discussing how you intend to acquire the skill (if you have immediate plans) or by focusing on your willingness to learn and excitement about professional development. Many hiring managers will consider a candidate who doesn’t have every hard skill if they are enthusiastic and have potential, so this method can work.

For behavioral interview questions , you’ll need a robust strategy. Usually, combining the STAR Method and the Tailoring Method is the best approach. So, let’s take a look at those.

8. Get to Know the STAR Method

The STAR Method is a classic approach to answering behavioral interview questions. It allows you to turn a generic response into a compelling story. That’s why, when you’re trying to figure out how to prepare for a job interview, learning the STAR Method is a must.

While we took a deep dive into the STAR Method before, here’s an overview. STAR stands for Situation , Task , Action , and Results . It’s an approach for outlining how an event arose and played out, making it ideal for structuring how you discuss an accomplishment.

With the STAR Method, you can make sure the hiring manager has every critical detail. You’re showing them how you put your skills to work, giving them important context about how you perform on the job.

9. Dive into the Tailoring Method

Alright, the STAR Method alone is a pretty strong approach. But, by also learning the Tailoring Method , you have a secret sauce for creating delicious answers to behavioral interview questions.

The Tailoring Method is all about customization. You don’t want to give the hiring manager a basic answer to a question; you want to make it relevant and enticing, building an exceptional value proposition by showcasing how you can help their company thrive. That’s what the Tailoring Method helps you do.

It’s an approach that makes the hiring manager and company the priority, not you. It’s about positioning yourself as a solution to the problem the hiring manager is trying to solve (which, by the way, is finding the ideal candidate for the job they need to fill). That makes the Tailoring Method a competitive advantage, as not all job seekers are going to go that extra mile.

10. Practice Common Interview Questions

Certain job interview questions are almost universal, so it is smart to practice them. Grab a list of common ones and get cracking, using the techniques you’ve developed so far to create compelling answers.

11. Practice Job-Specific Interview Questions

While you should spend time on general interview questions, you also want to get job-specific . Each kind of position requires unique skills and traits, so hiring managers are going to ask questions that help them figure out if you have what it takes to thrive.

So, for example, if you’re trying to land a data analyst position, research data analyst interview questions . If you’re interviewing as Microsoft , Facebook , or Google , review questions that hiring managers at those companies ask. That way, you’ll be as ready for your interview as possible.

12. Get Some Questions Ready

At the end of every interview, you typically have a chance to ask the hiring manager a few questions. Make sure you have a few ready to go. That way, you won’t be at a loss when that moment arrives.

If you don’t know where to begin, ask them to describe a typical day in the position. You can also ask if there’s anything preventing them from considering you the top candidate, giving you a chance to address any concerns head-on.

Check out our article for more questions you can ask the hiring manager !

13. Interview Yourself in Front of a Mirror (or on Video)

Once you have your questions and answers ready, interview yourself in front of a mirror or on video. That way, you can watch your body language and practice eye contact, allowing you to get everything working in your favor.

14. Do a Mock Interview with a Buddy

Having someone you trust help you out is a smart move. Give them a list of practice interview questions and have them put on their hiring manager hat. Once done, ask for feedback and hone your approach.

15. Gather Your Must-Bring Items

Usually, you’ll need to bring a few things with you during your interview . At least the night before, print out resume copies, pack up your portfolio, and gather anything else that needs to come with you.

16. Choose Your Interview Attire

You want to make sure your outfit makes you look like the ideal person for the job. A few days before, choose your attire. Try it on to make sure it fits and examine it for signs of wear and tear. That way, if there’s an issue, you can choose something else without having to rush.

Putting It All Together

That’s it! When it comes to how to prepare for an interview, that’s what you need to know. Take those tips and use them to your advantage. By doing so, you’ll increase your odds of job interview success, making all of the effort worthwhile.

FREE : Job Interview Questions & Answers PDF Cheat Sheet!

Download our " Job Interview Questions & Answers PDF Cheat Sheet " that gives you word-for-word sample answers to some of the most common interview questions including:

• What Is Your Greatest Weakness?
• What Is Your Greatest Strength?
• Tell Me About Yourself
• Why Should We Hire You?

Click Here To Get The Job Interview Questions & Answers Cheat Sheet

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com.

His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others.

Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

About The Author

Mike simpson.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com. His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

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How To Research a Company for a Job Interview

7 Ways to Find Out What You Need to Know Before the Big Day

Visit the Company Website

Browse social media, use linkedin, get an interview edge, use google and google news, tap your connections, get to know the industry and competitors, how to use this research during interviews.

You may have heard the advice that it’s important to have some questions for the hiring manager when you’re interviewing for a job. It’s true that interviewers will expect you to be curious and interested in their organization, and they'll expect to show that by asking questions, but it’s also true that you should come to the interview with a good baseline of knowledge about the company.

Hopefully, you’ll learn a lot about the company during the interview—like whether the organization and the company culture are a good fit for you, for example. But during the interview is not the time to learn basic information about the company. You should know all that before you set foot in corporate HQ. 

The good news is that it’s easier than ever before to learn about an employer before the job interview. Take some time, in advance, to learn as much as you can online. Then, tap into your real-world network to see who you know who can help give you an interview edge over the other candidates. Do your research, and you’ll make a much better impression on the hiring manager. Here are tips for researching companies before the interview.

Start by visiting the company website. There, you can review the organization's mission statement and history, products and services, and management, as well as information about the company culture. The information is usually available in the "About Us" section of the site. If there's a Press section of the website, read through the featured links there.

Pay attention to themes that come up repeatedly on the site. As much as any stated corporate values, the words companies choose to describe themselves are telling. Do you want to work at a place where people are “driven to excellence,” or does that make you feel tired? Do you like the idea of working with people who consider their coworkers family, or do you need more distance between your job and your personal life? Of course, organizations use hyperbole when talking about themselves... but it’s often pretty telling hyperbole.

Next, check the company's social media accounts. Visit their Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter pages. This will give you a good sense of how the company wants its consumers to see it. Like or follow the company to get updates. You'll find some information you may not have found otherwise.

You may also uncover some red flags. If the organization doesn’t have a professionally managed social media presence, for example, or if it’s updated sporadically and inconsistently, they might not be totally in control of their public image.

LinkedIn company profiles are a good way to find, at a glance, more information on a company you're interested in. You'll be able to see your connections at the company, new hires, promotions, jobs posted, related companies, and company statistics. If you have connections at the company, consider reaching out to them. Not only can they put in a good word for you, but they may also share their perspective on the company and give you tips that will help you ace the interview.

Take a look at your interviewer's LinkedIn profile to get insight into their job and their background, as well. Look for any common links between you. Do you know the same people? Did you go to the same school? Are you part of the same groups, online or off? Those common links could help you establish rapport during the interview process. 

Consider looking up the company on Glassdoor . Their Interview Questions and Reviews section has a goldmine of information for job seekers.

You can find out what candidates for the positions you are interviewing for were asked and get advice on how tough the interview was. Use reviews to help get a sense of company culture. That said, take them with a grain of salt—employees are often most likely to leave reviews when they are unhappy. As you read reviews, look for repeated themes. The more mentions a given subject gets (whether it's praise for flexible hours or frustration with senior management) the more likely it is to be accurate.

Search both Google and Google News for the company name. This can be invaluable. You may find out that the company is expanding into Asia, for instance, or recently received a round of start-up funding. Or, you may find out that a recent product underperformed or had to be recalled. This knowledge can help shape your responses to interview questions.

Do you know someone who works at the company? Ask them if they can help.

If you're a college grad, ask your career office if they can give you a list of alumni who work there. Then email them, send a LinkedIn message, or call and ask for assistance.

As well as researching the company, it makes sense to review the overall industry. If you're interviewing for a job at a mortgage company, for instance, it's helpful to be informed about current homeownership trends. Get to know the company's biggest competitors and identify their successes and flaws, too. Insight into the company's industry and rivals are bound to impress interviewers.

During a job interview, interviewers ask questions to get to know candidates . But their main goal is to determine if a candidate will be a good fit for the position and company.

Your company research will make your responses to questions compelling and show that you'll be helpful to their goals and bottom line.

Plus, your knowledge will help you give a specific answer if you're asked why you'd like to work for the company. You can share details about things you find admirable about the company, its mission, or its culture.

How to Research a Co...

How to research a company before an interview: step-by-step.

Unsure where to start with your company research? Follow these steps and land the job.

• Updated 7 Apr 2022
• 10 min read

Nikki Vivian

Careers Coach and Writer

Reviewed by Hayley Ramsey

Researching a company before an interview is a crucial part of the interview process and can be the difference between landing a job and remaining a jobseeker. A job isn’t just about the role itself. The company you work for has an important part to play in whether you feel happy in your job and how you are expected to work. The same role in two different companies can vary hugely in terms of how the role is structured, the office culture, working hours, mission and ethos.

The way an organization works and what they stand for is what sets them apart and it’s vital that you prepare before an interview by researching a company, so you can better understand their employee requirements and whether it will be a suitable role for you personally.

In this article, we’ll cover why you should research a company, what to look for, and how to research a company properly before an interview.

Why you should research a company

There are several reasons why researching a company before an interview will be beneficial. Job searching can be tedious, so the first thing you should consider when preparing for an interview is the ethos and culture of an organization. This will have a big impact on your job search in general, as it’s important to determine whether you will be a good fit and will save you wasting time applying for jobs that aren’t right.

Researching a company will allow you to see whether you feel aligned with their values. This is important for you to feel motivated and passionate about your job. It will also allow you to be sure that the company culture is suited to you, as the last thing you want to do is make a mistake in your job search and end up in a job that makes you miserable.

Secondly, researching the company is the first level of interview preparation you should be doing. In order to tailor your résumé correctly, you need to understand what the company is looking for in a candidate. In your cover letter , résumé, and job application letter , you need to be showing the recruiter what you can offer the organization, and in order to do this, you need to know what they value.

Leading on from this, at the interview stage, there is a high chance you will be asked about your knowledge of the company. This might be directly through questions like: “What do you know about [company name]?”, or more subtly through questions, such as, “Why do you think you will be a good fit for [company name]?”

To answer these questions well, you need to be able to tailor your experience to the needs of the company you are interviewing for, and you’ll only be able to do this effectively by researching their policies, values and aims beforehand.

What to look for

When conducting your research, there are some important things you need to look for in order to determine whether the company is for you and to gather all the information you need for your interview.

• Company reputation : Check customer and employee reviews online to determine the overall opinion of the company and whether people enjoy working there.
• Company values : What the company stands for and their values is important. Each company should have a mission statement, which will explain their main purpose.
• Company culture : Make sure you are aligned with company culture and working conditions, because this is going to have a big impact on whether you are happy in the role.
• Pay and benefits : If this isn’t clear from the role you’re applying for, check out other job descriptions, job ads and employee reviews to get a better understanding of the pay range.
• Opportunities for growth and promotion : If professional growth is important to you, do your research to ensure that the company supports employee development.

How to research a company

Now that you are clear on what you need to find out about a company and why it’s important, let’s go through some top tips on how to conduct your research.

Step 1: Check the company website

This is the first place to start your research. The company website will give you the best idea of how the company wants to portray themselves and what their aims are as a brand. Head to the “about” section to understand the roots of the organization, their values, and overall aims.

You should be able to find a mission statement that will help you to understand everything the company stands for, and overall, you will get a feel for company culture . You can check for things like whether the company has a focus on work-life balance and wellbeing, whether they are hot on developing employees, and whether they pay competitive salaries, for example.

The company website is also the best place to learn about the company’s products and services, which is essential reading to make sure you know exactly what the company does and offers for their clients.

Step 2: Read the news

If the company website has a press page, start there. You can also use Google news to see if the company has appeared in the news recently. This will allow you to find out more about positive and negative aspects, as well as knowing about any awards and accolades they may have gained. You can set up Google alerts to notify you if the company is mentioned in the press or any news sites.

Taking this approach will give you more knowledge than simply reading the company website. It might also give you the edge in an interview if you can relate your answer to a recent event or news coverage about the company.

Step 3: Check out company review sites

Review sites give an excellent independent view from consumers on what they think of the company. You can also check out employee review sites to find out what employees think. This will help you see if there are any red flags and will give you an insight into whether the company is fulfilling its mission and promises.

Step 4: Review the company’s social media accounts

Social media is a great place to find out about news items and public opinion. It is also excellent for understanding the company from a more personal, intimate point of view.

While websites can be very official, social media is far more relaxed, and is likely to give you insights into work culture, accounts from employees, and even photos and details of events and team outings. You’ll also be able to see how the company interacts with customers through their comments and “stories”.

It’s a good time to note that if you’re still trying to get interviews, then searching for jobs on social media is also worth considering.

Step 5: Research employees on LinkedIn

LinkedIn will allow you to search for the company and profiles of the people who work there. Looking at people in similar roles (or better yet, the role you’re applying for) will give you insights into their background and what the organization may be looking for. You can also see how long they stay with the organization, how quickly they progress and a trend in the type of person the company hires.

You can even use LinkedIn to find a job and make connections in companies you’re interested in, which makes it a brilliant job search tool to consider, along with the other job search apps available out there. Remember to make sure you have a professional LinkedIn profile if you decide to go down this route.

Step 6: Research the hiring manager

LinkedIn will also give you a good opportunity to research the hiring manager. Knowing a bit more about the person interviewing you could be an advantage. You may find something you have in common that you can bring up in your interview, or at least get an idea of their background within the company and beyond.

Connecting with the hiring manager will also give you an opportunity to ask any questions you may have and allows you to follow up after your interview .

Step 7: Check out their competitors

Research competitors in the same way that you research the company you’re applying for. Being able to show your knowledge of competitors and the industry as a whole, including similarities and differences, will impress the interviewer.

If you’re unsure which companies are competitors, you can use websites like Ahrefs or Semrush , where you can type in the organization in question and it will show you their competitors based on keyword use.

Step 8: Tap into your connections

Do you know people who work for the company you’re interviewing for? Do you know anyone who has worked there previously? Or even someone who has done business with them? Networking has many benefits , and your existing connections are useful for finding out things about the organization from all sorts of perspectives. You may even know someone who knows someone who can help you by making an introduction.

Step 9: Contact a current employee

You may have identified a current employee that you can contact via your connections. If not, LinkedIn is the best place to make inroads. Invite current company employees to connect, or ask a mutual connection for an introduction. This will give you the opportunity to ask questions, or to meet the people in the right places, prior to attending your interview.

Step 10: Ask your recruitment consultant

If you are applying via a recruitment agency, information about a company can be scarce. Often the name of the company isn’t even released. This makes research difficult, but don’t give up. Be one step ahead of other applicants who simply don’t know and ask your recruitment consultant for details .

If they don’t tell you the name of the organization, they will be able to give you clues as to who they are, what they do, and what they stand for, as well as what you need to know about pay and benefits.

Final thoughts

Being prepared for your interview goes a long way and researching the company you’re applying to is key to this. Really understanding the company, including their values and work culture as well as their products and services mean you can tailor your answers to what they are looking for and demonstrate your knowledge of the company. Go one step further and dig deep for news items and snippets on social media that tell a story of their achievements and future plans.

Research on a company will also allow you to decide whether they are for you. How much you enjoy a job will be impacted by the company and whether you align with their values, opportunities and working conditions.

And there you have it. Now you know how to research a company before an interview!

What did you find out about the company you researched for an interview? Did it help you in the interview itself? Let us know what happened in the comments. We’re dying to know!

This is an updated version of an article originally published on 31 October 2017.

Company Culture

Interview Preparation

Finding a Job

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Things to do Before, During, and After Your Interview

An employer will invite you for an interview if they believe that you have the skills to succeed at their company. In the interview, they will seek to evaluate your genuine interest in the company and the role, your preparedness for the position, and your potential to add value to their team.

Your answers to the questions they ask will help them assess your skills, experience, and motivation.

Below, you will find suggestions on how to prepare for the interview, show yourself in the best light during the interview, and follow up after the interview.

Before the Interview

Research the company and industry.

Employers gauge your interest and motivation by how much you know about their organization. Do your research on the position, company, and industry.

• Reread the job description and think how you can communicate why you would be a good fit for the position.
• Review the organization’s website and social media activity.
• Learn about current trends and events that might impact your future employer.
• Try to get insider knowledge of the organization by speaking with LinkedIn contacts, alumni, peers, faculty, family, or other contacts who may have a deeper understanding of the organization.

prepare the key points you want to communicate during the interview

Prepare responses around these themes so that you will be ready for a wide variety of questions. 

• Why are you interested in this position?  Evaluate how your past experiences (academic, professional, co-curricular, personal) have contributed to your interest in this role. Think about why you want to do this kind of work at this particular organization.

Why are you a good candidate for this position? Assess for how your work experience, personal qualities, academic accomplishments, and co-curricular activities make you qualified for the position. Identify the transferable skills and knowledge that you would bring to the position. Be prepared to demonstrate your skills with examples using the  SARA method (Situation, Action, Result, Application) . 

Practice your interviewing skills

Many people practice for an interview by writing answers to common interview questions . While organizing your thoughts on paper is helpful, you should supplement it with verbal practice, alone, or with a friend, mentor, or career counselor. You can schedule a practice interview with a career counselor to get feedback on your interview responses and presentation. We also host a Practice Interview Program  each semester that allows you to practice and get feedback from a Columbia alum.

For independent practice in a virtual format, we recommend Big Interview , which you have access to for free through our office. You can practice answering interview questions by industry or job function, record yourself, and use their tool for self-assessment or share any video with a mentor for feedback.

The interview is also a chance to learn more about the employer and the position. Think about what you’d like to learn more about the role, division, organization, and industry. Identify questions to ask the employer that will help you determine if this is the right position for you. 

Day Before the Interview Checklist

• Review your notes, resume, cover letter, job description, and company/industry summaries.
• For an in-person interview, know the route you will take to the interview location and how much travel time you will need. Build in additional time to ensure you will not be late.
• Prepare an appropriate interview outfit. Our Clothing Closet is a resource for students in need of professional attire for an interview, career fair, or professional networking event.
• Make note of the name and title of the interviewer or the person you will check-in with.
• Have the following items prepared: copies of your resume, a list of references, a notepad, and pens.
• Get a good night’s rest.

The Day of the Interview

Before the interview begins.

• Be on time! Aim to arrive at least 10–15 minutes early.
• Bring the supplies you prepared the night before your interview.
• Be considerate and polite to all staff members. 
• Put mobile devices on silent.
• Avoid any scents that may be distracting to the employer.
• Enter with a positive attitude.

during the interview

• Listen carefully to the interviewer and make sure you answer the question your interviewer is asking.
• Relate your skills, accomplishments, and objectives to the needs of the company.
• Provide specific examples when possible using the SARA method (Situation, Action, Result, Application) .
• Focus on the positive aspects of your training and experience. You don’t have to apologize for any perceived lack of experience or background.
• Use clear and direct language. Avoid using filler words such as “um” or “like.” Make your point and don’t ramble.
• Maintain eye contact with your interviewer(s). If there are multiple interviewers, remember to engage with all of them.
• Be aware of your body language. Convey confidence and engagement with your posture. 
• Observe the people and office space to get a sense of the company’s culture.
• If you do not have the interviewer’s contact information, request a business card so that you can send a thank you note.

After the Interview

• Send a thank you note within 24 hours of the interview. Check out a sample thank you note for inspiration.
• Evaluate your performance. Did any questions stump you? Consider how you can improve your answers for the next interview.
• Think about what you learned about the position and employer during the interview. Assess how the position would meet your priorities and goals.
• After a first round interview you may be called back for additional rounds of interviews depending on the employer’s process. Check out our resource on what to expect at a second round interview to help you prepare.
• If a job offer is provided on the spot, which is uncommon, it is appropriate to thank the employer and to tell them that you need more time to consider the offer. Ask about the company’s timeline and deadline for your answer. 
• If you do not hear from the employer after the hiring timeline they initially indicated, follow up once. Call or email the interviewer or human resources contact. Reaffirm your interest in the position and inquire about the new hiring timeline.

Related Resources

You Got a Second Interview! Now What?

Congratulations—you made it through your first-round interview! It’s likely that the first round interview was conducted by phone or virtually—now they want to meet you in person.

Common Interview Questions and How to Answer Them

Preparation is the key to interview success. We’ve included examples of the most common interview questions and how to answer them

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Harris condemns Trump's rhetoric, says voters should make sure he 'can't have that microphone again'

Vice President Kamala Harris has decried Republican Donald Trump for inflammatory rhetoric about migrants in Springfield, Ohio, and on other topics, and said voters should make sure he “can’t have that microphone again."

PHILADELPHIA -- Vice President Kamala Harris on Tuesday decried Republican Donald Trump for inflammatory rhetoric about migrants in Springfield, Ohio, and on other topics, saying voters should make sure he “can’t have that microphone again.”

Sitting down for a rare extended campaign interview Tuesday with a trio of journalists from the National Association of Black Journalists, Harris said her heart breaks after threats of violence have disrupted the city following comments amplified by Trump and his running mate alleging, without evidence, that immigrants are kidnapping and consuming people’s pets.

Two days after Secret Service agents foiled an apparent assassination attempt on Trump, who blamed Democratic rhetoric for the latest threat to his life, Harris said that “there are far too many people in our country right now who are not feeling safe.” She referenced the threats to immigrants, but also the conservative Project 2025 blueprint for the next Republican administration and a GOP-led effort to restrict abortion access.

“Not everybody has Secret Service," she said. “Members of the LGBTQ community don’t feel safe right now, immigrants or people with an immigrant background don’t feel safe right now. Women don’t feel safe right now."

Harris said she personally has confidence in the Secret Service and feels safe under their protection. She spoke briefly with Trump on Tuesday to express her gratitude that he was safe, but in the interview said his rhetoric should be disqualifying.

“When you have that kind of microphone in front of you, you really ought to understand at a deep level that your words have meaning," Harris said, without mentioning Trump by name. “Let’s turn the page and chart a new way forward and say you can’t have that microphone again."

Harris said the Republican attacks on the city and migrants there were “lies that are grounded in tropes that are age old.”

The sedate interview in Philadelphia stood in contrast to former President Donald Trump ’s appearance before the same organization just a month ago, which turned contentious over matters of race and other issues.

The Trump interview opened a chapter in the campaign in which the Republican candidate repeatedly questioned Harris’ racial identity, baselessly claiming that she had only belatedly “turned Black” at some point in her professional career. Trump has since repeatedly questioned Harris’ racial identity on the campaign trail and during the September presidential debate.

Harris, the daughter of a Jamaican father and an Indian mother, has repeatedly dismissed Trump’s remarks as “the same old show.” During her September debate with Trump, she said it was a “tragedy” that he had “attempted to use race to divide the American people.”

The vice president insisted she is working to earn the vote of Black men and not taking any constituency for granted. Black male voters are traditionally one of the most consistently Democratic-leaning demographics in the nation. But Republicans have tried to make inroads, while Democrats worry about flagging enthusiasm at the polls.

“I think it’s very important to not operate from the assumption that Black men are in anybody’s pocket,” Harris said. “Black men are like any other voting group. You gotta earn their vote, so I’m working to earn the vote, not assuming I’m gonna have it because I’m Black”

Harris declined to say if she supported reparations for descendants of slaves, but said, “we need to speak truth about the generational impact of our history in terms of the generational impact of slavery, the generational impact of red lining." She said expressed openness to studying the question "to figure out exactly what we need to do,” but said her focus was on building economic opportunity.

In Trump’s interview with NABJ, he lambasted the moderators and drew boos and groans from the audience at times. The interview also sparked debate within the NABJ convention itself , which operates both as a networking and communal space for Black professionals in media as well as a newsmaking event.

As with Trump’s appearance, the audience was made up of NABJ members and college students, but the tenor was markedly different. Where Trump called the reporters interviewing him “rude,” “nasty” and denounced their questions as “horrible,” Harris referred to the reporters who pressed her as “esteemed journalists.”

The crowd was inaudible throughout the Tuesday interview with Harris. In July, Trump’s comments were often met with laughter, shock and confusion from the room, which largely consisted of student journalists and media professionals outside political news.

Trump, his running mate, Ohio Sen. JD Vance , and other Republicans have criticized Harris for largely avoiding media interviews or interacting on the record with reporters who cover her campaign events. She and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, gave a joint interview to CNN last month. Her campaign recently said she would be doing more local media, and last week she sat for her first solo television interview since becoming the Democratic nominee, taking questions from a Philadelphia station.

Asked whether Americans are better off today than four years ago when she and President Joe Biden entered office, Harris did not directly answer the question, instead referencing the state of the economy during the COVID-19 pandemic and bringing up her plans to try to lower housing costs and promoting herself as a “new generation” of leader.

Harris said her candidacy offers the country a chance at “turning the page on an era that sadly has shown us attempts to by some to incite fear to create division in our country."

Janiyah Thomas, Black media director for the Trump campaign, said Harris’ remarks to the National Association of Black Journalists on Tuesday reveal her record of failures for Black Americans.

“She told the NABJ that after three and half years of her failed policies, grocery prices are too high and the American Dream is unattainable for young Americans,” Thomas said. “We can’t afford four more years of Kamala Harris. It’s time to put President Trump back in the White House and restore economic prosperity.”

Harris has largely sidestepped traditional media appearances and instead focused on rallies, grassroots organizing and social media engagement , where the vice president can sidestep questions from independent journalists about her policy record and proposed agenda.

Tuesday's event was moderated by Eugene Daniels of Politico, Gerren Keith Gaynor of theGrio and Tonya Mosley of WHYY, a Philadelphia-area public radio station that co-hosted the gathering.

Asked whether she would change U.S. policy toward the Israel-Hamas war, Harris said she endorsed Biden's pause on 2000-lb. bombs to Israel and didn't signal any daylight with the president.

Harris noted the killing of Israeli civilians — and some Americans – by Hamas on Oct. 7 and added that far too many "innocent Palestinians have been killed" in Israel's response.

She added that the Israel-Hamas war has to end and a ceasefire and hostage deal must get done, while calling for a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestinian conflict. She said the goal is to ensure “the Israelis have security and Palestinians in equal measure have security, have self-determination and dignity.”

NABJ noted the importance of hosting the conversation in Philadelphia, a major city in a battleground state with a large Black population. Philadelphia was also the home to one of the major precursor organizations to NABJ.

For years, the association has invited both major presidential candidates to speak before the convention. Presidents George W. Bush, Barack Obama and Joe Biden all attended NABJ events as presidential candidates or while in office.

Brown reported from Washington. AP writers Zeke Miller and Colleen Long in Washington contributed.

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Exploring preparedness transitions in medicine and pharmacy: a qualitative longitudinal study to inform multiprofessional learning opportunities

• Open access
• Published: 16 September 2024

Cite this article

You have full access to this open access article

• Ella Ottrey 1 ,
• Charlotte E. Rees 1 , 2 ,
• Caitlin Kemp 1 ,
• Kayley M. Lyons 3 , 4 ,
• Tina P. Brock 3 , 5 ,
• Michelle Leech 6 ,
• Lynn V. Monrouxe 7 &
• Claire Palermo 1  

Despite extensive preparedness literature, existing studies fail to adequately explore healthcare graduates’ feelings of preparedness longitudinally across new graduate transition journeys, nor do they compare different healthcare professions to ascertain what opportunities exist for multiprofessional transition interventions. Therefore, this Australian study, underpinned by temporal theory, explores the preparedness transitions of medicine and pharmacy graduates. Our 6-month qualitative longitudinal study involved 12 medicine and 7 pharmacy learners after purposive sampling. They participated in an entrance interview before starting internship, longitudinal audio-diaries during their first three months of internship, and an exit interview. Framework analysis explored patterns in the data cross-sectionally and longitudinally for the whole cohort (thinking over time), with pen portraits illustrating individuals’ journeys (thinking through time). Preparedness and unpreparedness narratives involved practical skills and tasks, interpersonal skills, knowledge, and professional practice for medicine and pharmacy. However, narratives for practical skills and tasks, and professional practice were dominant amongst medicine graduates, while narratives for interpersonal skills and knowledge were dominant amongst pharmacy graduates. We found numerous cohort changes in feelings of preparedness over time, but the illustrative pen portraits demonstrated the complexities and nuances through time, including feelings of preparedness before internship becoming unpreparedness during internship (e.g., cannulas), improving preparedness through time (e.g., cover shifts), and persistent feelings of unpreparedness (e.g., patient interactions). While our cross-sectional findings are reasonably consistent with existing research, our comparative and longitudinal findings are novel. We recommend that educators build learners’ preparedness through uniprofessional transition interventions involving practical skills and tasks, and professional practice in medicine, and interpersonal skills and knowledge in pharmacy. More importantly, we recommend multiprofessional transition interventions for medicine and pharmacy learners before internship focusing on knowledge, and during internship focusing on practical skills and tasks.

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Introduction

Preparedness for practice matters in healthcare. It matters to new graduates as they navigate exciting and daunting transitions into the world of healthcare work, with its associated responsibilities and identities. It matters to new graduates’ colleagues as they simultaneously rely on their contributions to the healthcare team, and serve to support, mentor, and manage these novice colleagues. And perhaps most importantly, preparedness matters to patients and their significant others, who expect to be treated with safety, dignity, and competence by new graduates. Therefore, considerable literature already exists outlining what healthcare graduates feel prepared or unprepared for. However, to date, this literature is largely uniprofessional and cross-sectional, meaning that crucial gaps remain in healthcare educators’ knowledge about the similarities and differences in preparedness between professions, and how preparedness changes through time. As such, educators may not fully realise the opportunities to develop multiprofessional transition to practice interventions, nor identify the ideal content and timing for these interventions. Therefore, this novel study extends the burgeoning preparedness literature by exploring comparatively graduates’ feelings of preparedness longitudinally across their final year student-new graduate transitions in medicine and pharmacy. This work enables us to provide recommendations for uniprofessional and multiprofessional transition interventions across new graduates’ journeys into and through internship.

Preparedness across healthcare professions

Interestingly, preparedness has been conceptualised in multiple ways in the literature including experience, knowledge, confidence, resilience, short-term, and so on (Brennan et al., 2024 ; Ottrey et al., 2021 ). Considerable cross-sectional literature exists outlining the preparedness of uniprofessional groups for practice. A recent literature review revealed that 70–80% of medical graduates report feeling adequately prepared, but this was task-dependent (Padley et al., 2021 ). Regarding pharmacy interns, studies have reported diversity in preparedness for practice (see Table  1 ). A handful of studies have explored preparedness (sometimes focusing on preparedness for interprofessional practice) in final year students or new graduates from multidisciplinary groups, including: medicine, dentistry, nursing and/or midwifery, and/or allied health (Brennan et al., 2024 ; Ebert et al., 2014 ; Malau-Aduli et al., 2022 ; Merga, 2016 ; Walker et al., 2013 ). Together, these studies illustrate that final year students or new graduates are generally prepared for patient-centred practice, history-taking, examining patients, basic clinical skills, using guidelines, promoting patient safety and hygiene, and seeking support (Malau-Aduli et al., 2022 ; Walker et al., 2013 ). However, they illustrate under-preparedness for communicating with diverse people, clinical reasoning, prescribing, providing nutrition care, interprofessional teamworking, managing interpersonal conflict, recognising when to seek support, ward-specific knowledge, awareness of hospital policies and procedures, caseload and time management, clinical administration skills (e.g., audit, informatics, governance), high-risk patients and emergencies, applying theoretical knowledge to practice, teaching, coping with uncertainty, and stress management (Ebert et al., 2014 ; Malau-Aduli et al., 2022 ; Merga, 2016 ; Walker et al., 2013 ). On balance, preparedness for practice appeared similar across diverse professions, although some studies have started to illuminate differences (e.g., nursing graduates struggled to seek support and apply theory to practice, but medical graduates did not: Merga, 2016 ; Walker et al., 2013 ; Brennan et al., 2024 ). While these cross-sectional studies help to shed important light on healthcare graduates’ preparedness, numerous scholars have called for longitudinal research to further advance this important topic (e.g., Malau-Aduli et al., 2022 ; Monrouxe et al., 2017 , 2018 ; Sumpradit et al., 2014 ). However, few longitudinal studies exist to date (Padley et al., 2021 ), and several only report cross-sectional findings (e.g., Lefroy et al., 2017 ; Monrouxe et al., 2018 ).

Temporal theory: preparedness across healthcare professions through and over time

Time is central to qualitative longitudinal research (QLR: Neale, 2018 , 2019 ), and can be conceptualised in various ways (Rees & Ottrey, in press). In health-related QLR, time is often conceptualised as change, process, transition, and development (Audulv et al., 2022 ). Perhaps most relevant to the current study, time can be conceptualised as subjective, fluid and dynamic (i.e., thinking through time) or objective, linear and fixed (i.e., thinking over time: Audulv et al., 2022 ; Balmer & Richards, 2022 ; Balmer et al., 2021 ). Indeed, thinking through time enables researchers to focus on analysing experiences throughout a journey, including: “the stops and starts, detours, transitions and reversals of students’ progression” (Balmer et al., 2021 , p. 1254). Conversely, thinking over time enables researchers to compare experiences at multiple timepoints, such as the start and end of rotations. Embedded within this fixed/fluid conceptualisation, time can also be considered as a snapshot in time or unfolding through time (called synchronic and diachronic respectively: Neale, 2018 , 2019 ). Furthermore, researchers can orientate themselves to time across multiple planes including: (a) past, present and/or future (prospective-retrospective); and (b) short or long-term (intensive-extensive: Audulv et al., 2022 ; Balmer et al., 2021 ; Neale, 2018 , 2019 ).

Four longitudinal studies have explored medical or pharmacy graduates’ preparedness temporally: either through or over time. Viewing time as fluid, Monrouxe et al. ( 2014 ) conducted a longitudinal audio-diary (LAD) study exploring medical graduates’ preparedness through time. However, three longitudinal questionnaire studies explored preparedness in medical or pharmacy graduates over time, viewing time as fixed (Chaou et al., 2021 ; Chow et al., 2022 ; Mak et al., 2013 ). These four studies demonstrate general improvements in competence and confidence across time, such as for history-taking, physical examinations, clinical reasoning, and communication (Chaou et al., 2021 ; Chow et al., 2022 ; Mak et al., 2013 ; Monrouxe et al., 2014 ). However, these studies also illustrate ongoing unpreparedness (e.g., for end-of-life care, mental state examinations, and respiratory function tests) despite transition interventions (Chow et al., 2022 ), and challenging circumstances generating feelings of unpreparedness for aspects that graduates had previously felt prepared for (e.g., being on-call, interprofessional teamworking, patient management, and self-directed learning: Chaou et al., 2021 ; Monrouxe et al., 2014 ). Finally, some cross-sectional and retrospective studies involving medical graduates have reported improvements in preparedness over time, such as responding to acutely unwell patients, carrying out clinical procedures, and coping with new clinical situations (Burridge et al., 2020 ; Walker et al., 2013 ).

Critique of literature and study aim

The primary research outlined above typically involved descriptive, cross-sectional questionnaire surveys with uniprofessional graduates or educators. Some studies employed interviews with graduates or educators at one timepoint. The few multiprofessional studies conducted were also typically cross-sectional descriptive studies employing surveys or interviews/focus groups, and explored preparedness/readiness for clinical practice, including interprofessional practice. Additional criticisms include small sample (or sub-group) sizes and/or low response rates for questionnaires. Uniprofessional studies make it hard to understand the similarities and differences between new graduates’ preparedness, and thus what opportunities exist to develop multiprofessional transition interventions. Cross-sectional studies make it challenging to know how preparedness changes through time, and thus when multiprofessional transition interventions should be optimally timed. Therefore, this study—part of a broader research program on new graduate transitions amongst learners from dietetics, medicine, nursing, and pharmacy (Blair et al., 2023 ; Ottrey et al., 2021 ; Rees et al., 2022 )—aims to explore medicine and pharmacy learners’ feelings of preparedness during their final year student-new graduate transition journeys (i.e., the months after graduation) to better understand what opportunities might exist for multiprofessional transition interventions. We sought to answer two research questions (RQs) based on temporal theory:

RQ1: What are the key areas of perceived preparedness and unpreparedness for medicine and pharmacy graduates, and how do they compare between the professions?

RQ2: How do feelings of preparedness change over and through the final year student-new graduate transition, and how do they compare between medicine and pharmacy graduates?

Study design and grand theories.

This Australian study employs QLR (Neale, 2018 ; Neale & Flowerdew, 2003 ; SmithBattle et al., 2018 ; Vogl et al., 2018 ), grounded in social constructionism, valuing diversity in experiences and the construction of knowledge through social interaction (Burr, 2015 ; Rees et al., 2020 ). Indeed, our QLR was based on interpretivist philosophies privileging relativist ontology, subjectivist epistemology, and temporality of participants’ experiences. Our study design aligns with conceptualisations of time as fixed and fluid, synchronic and diachronic, prospective and retrospective, micro (i.e., individuals/small collectives), and intensive (i.e., short-term: Audulv et al., 2022 ; Balmer et al., 2021 ; Neale, 2018 , 2019 ; Rees & Ottrey, in press). We elicited stories about preparedness from participants across three phases: (1) entrance interviews around degree completion before starting internship, (2) longitudinal audio-diaries (LADs) through a 3-month period entering the workforce as interns, and (3) exit interviews (Gordon et al., 2017 , 2020 ; Monrouxe, 2009 ). See Fig.  1 for a visual representation of the data collection methods and their timing.

Visual representation of the data collection methods and their timing

At the time of the study, this undergraduate medical degree, accredited by the Australian Medical Council, was a five-year program; with two pre-clinical years, followed by three years with approximately 560 days of hospital and community-based clinical placements (with Year 5 predominantly in hospitals). Most students began the program in Year 1, but approximately 25% took graduate entry into Year 2 (after completing biomedicine, science, physiotherapy, or pharmacy degrees). The learning modes were varied (i.e., lectures, seminars, workshops, tutorials, and simulation sessions), with interprofessional activities (with nursing and midwifery, nutrition science, and radiation science students) embedded in curriculum and assessment activities throughout the program. Transition interventions designed to support preparation for practice in Year 5 included ‘back to base’ days every 4–6 weeks and a ‘back to base’ week just prior to graduation. Medicine graduates then entered a paid internship year at an approved hospital with provisional registration. At the time of the study, internship involved five 10-week rotations through medicine, emergency medicine, surgery, and other specialties (e.g., mental health, neurology/stroke, palliative care), at metropolitan and/or rural/regional hospitals. After students submitted their rotation preferences, internships were coordinated through the Postgraduate Medical Council of Victoria. At the time of the study, this undergraduate pharmacy degree was comprised of four (predominantly pre-clinical) years accredited by the Australian Pharmacy Council. While most students began the program in Year 1, graduate entry into Year 3 was offered to those with science or biomedical science degrees. The teaching models were predominately lectures, tutorials and laboratory activities, with course content focusing primarily on foundational sciences. Students completed 60 days of professional experiential placement across Years 3 and 4. No specific multi- or interprofessional training or substantial transition interventions were included. Pharmacy graduates entered a one-year paid (clinical) internship program, operated by the university or another accredited internship provider (e.g., professional society), and undertaken at community pharmacies or in hospitals. At the time of the study, internship involved 1824 h of supervised practice, and could include rotations of various lengths through different settings (e.g., hospital dispensary, wards), in addition to assessments, workshops, and training sessions ahead of the Pharmacy Board examination. Both medicine and pharmacy interns secured full registration via the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency on successful completion of their intern year.

Sampling and recruitment

After securing ethics approval, we used purposive (i.e., maximum variation) sampling to recruit diverse final year students from four professions at an Australian university (Kitto et al., 2008 ). We wanted diversity in terms of students’ demographics (i.e., gender, ethnicity, and age), as well as professional affiliations (i.e., dietetics, medicine, nursing, and pharmacy). This paper focuses on medicine and pharmacy graduates only because: (a) both have provisional registration granted after graduation with full registration after successfully completing a 12-month internship; and (b) the increased task shifting and scope of practice for pharmacy (e.g., prescribing, vaccinating). We employed different recruitment methods, including email and in-person invitations, and snowballing. Our temporal sampling of final year students (before and during their early experiences of work as interns typically within hospitals but sometimes in a community setting) allowed us to track preparedness views and experiences through the university to workforce transition across a 6-month period. In total, 19 final year students participated in phases 1 and 2 (12 medicine, 7 pharmacy), with reasonable retention into phase 3 (15 participants: 9 medicine, 6 pharmacy). See Online Supplementary Table for a summary of participants’ involvement across the study. At the study outset, participants were predominately female (n = 16, 84%) and of Oceanian descent (n = 12, 63%; as defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, including Australian Peoples), with a median age of 23 years. Further participant demographics are reported elsewhere (Blair et al., 2023 ; Ottrey et al., 2021 ; Rees et al., 2022 ).

Data collection

In the first phase, entrance interviews, we spoke to 19 participants in eight group interviews (5 medicine groups, 3 pharmacy groups; purposefully grouping participants by discipline) (Oct–Dec 2019). All interviews were conducted in-person and audio-recorded. Participants completed a personal details questionnaire. Then, led by a discussion guide to promote consistency between interviewers (CK, KML, EO), we asked participants to tell us what they thought about ‘preparedness for practice’ (Ottrey et al., 2021 ) and ‘transition’ (Rees et al., 2022 ). Employing narrative interviewing techniques (Riessman, 2008 ), we invited participants to share memorable stories of times when they felt prepared and unprepared for practice in their final year of study (see Appendix 1 ). When needed, we prompted for further information, such as when and where the scenario happened. Afterwards, we briefed participants on the second phase and invited their participation. Entrance interviews lasted on average 72 min (range 58–88), generating 9 h and 31 min of data.

All 19 participants (100%) took part in the second phase, where we used longitudinal audio-diaries (LADs) to gather preparedness stories weekly through a 3-month period during Dec 2019–Mar 2020 (Monrouxe, 2009 ). We provided a LAD guide, which prompted topics such as preparedness or unpreparedness experiences from that week, and their impacts (see Appendix 1 ). The LAD guide encouraged participants to share stories of preparedness and unpreparedness equally. Participants used their smartphones to audio-record their LADs and return them via email. We corresponded with participants weekly, sending LAD reminders, acknowledging each LAD returned, and asking follow-up questions. In total, we received 136 LADs, which lasted on average 8 min (range 2–22), amounting to 17 h and 10 min of data. LAD participation lasted on average 10 weeks (range 2–14), with participants submitting on average 7 LADs (range 2–12). See Online Supplementary Table for LAD participant details. LAD participants were invited to complete the third phase.

In the third phase, exit interviews, we spoke to 15 participants (79%) in six group interviews (4 medicine groups, 2 pharmacy groups) and one individual interview (medicine) (Mar–Apr 2020). We conducted the interviews in-person or via Zoom, depending on participants’ availability and preferences. We modelled our discussion guide on that used in the entrance interviews, with added emphasis on what had changed through time and why (i.e., their ‘long story’: see Appendix 1 ). Exit interviews lasted on average 69 min (range 53–86), generating 8 h and 3 min of data.

Data analysis

We analysed our QLR data cross-sectionally (RQ1) and longitudinally (RQ2), as well as comparatively (both RQs) following the five-stage framework method (Ritchie & Spencer, 1994 ).

Stage 1, familiarisation : Each team member independently reviewed two of 10 transcripts by listening to the relevant audio-recording while reading each transcript. We annotated the transcripts with our thoughts relating to the research questions, summarising our key points at the end of each transcript.

Stage 2, identifying the thematic framework : All team members met to discuss key points, pulling these together into a preliminary coding framework. This was further developed, including contextual themes (e.g., narrative type, such as prepared story) and conceptual themes (e.g., narrative focus, such as communication), along with definitions and examples for each theme. Development of the coding framework was inductive and deductive, drawing on published research (Monrouxe et al., 2014 , 2018 ), national competency standards (e.g., Pharamaceutical Society of Australia, 2016 ) and intern outcome statements (e.g., Australian Medical Council & Medical Board of Australia, 2013 ).

Stage 3, indexing : Two team members (CK, EO) used the coding framework to code transcripts in NVivo (Version 12.2.0, QSR International). We first located narratives in participants’ talk, then coded the narrative type: prepared story, unprepared story, both (i.e., story with prepared and unprepared elements), or unclear. Next, we coded the narrative focus, using higher order and sub-themes. Sometimes narratives were coded to multiple foci. CK and EO met regularly to discuss coding progress and any challenges encountered, revising the coding framework as required.

Stage 4, charting : We used matrix coding queries to explicate data patterns, such as dominant narrative types over and through time, and similarities and differences in narrative foci between medicine and pharmacy graduates. In this way, we identified and explored preparedness longitudinally (e.g., through time at the individual level, and over time at discipline and cohort levels) and cross-sectionally (e.g., by discipline). So, we viewed/treated time as both fluid and fixed (Balmer & Richards, 2022 ; Balmer et al., 2021 ). While we explored patterns through “credentialing counting” (i.e., frequencies and percentages helping us evidence our interpretations: Monrouxe & Rees, 2020 , p. 186), we ‘closet’ (i.e., hide) frequencies and percentages when presenting our findings to avoid undermining our nuanced/complex qualitative meaning-making, which is possible if readers privileged quantities rather than qualities (Hannah & Lautsch, 2011 ; Monrouxe & Rees, 2020 ). Furthermore, we developed two pen portraits (reports for individual cases that: “successfully concentrate a large amount of longitudinal qualitative data into a focused account”: Sheard & Marsh, 2019 , p. 2–3) to better understand and illustrate the longitudinal narratives from one medical intern and one pharmacy intern, chronologically documenting their transition journeys, and highlighting developments through time (Neale, 2018 ; Sheard & Marsh, 2019 ). Note that we selected these two participants because they were involved in all three study phases, and with rich data to illustrate their diverse experiences.

Stage 5, mapping and interpretation : We interpreted our findings firstly by drawing upon published literature relating to preparedness, transitions, and QLR. We secondly interpreted our comparative findings to make sense of their implications for multiprofessional learning opportunities.

Research team and reflexivity

All eight members of our authorship team for this paper have health/education-related backgrounds (3 dietetics, 2 pharmacy, 2 psychology, 1 medicine). Six have clinical experience, five are experienced educators, and three held teaching/coordinating roles in the degrees sampled during the study. The three team members responsible for participant recruitment and data collection (CK, KML, EO) had no prior relationships with participants. Undertaking a team reflexivity activity at the start of our research (to discuss our backgrounds, expertise, philosophical positioning, hopes and fears for the project) supported an understanding and appreciation of the clinical and educational diversity within our team, strengthening our ability to interpret and contextualise the findings (Barry et al., 1999 ).

We identified 424 narratives in participants’ data. Of these, 222 were coded as unprepared, and 160 as prepared. A further 37 contained both prepared and unprepared elements, and 5 were unclear. For clarity, in this paper we focus only on the 382 narratives that were coded as prepared or unprepared (except in the longitudinal pen portraits, where we synthesise and report data from two participants, irrespective of narrative type).

RQ1: What are the key areas of perceived preparedness and unpreparedness for medicine and pharmacy graduates, and how do they compare between the professions?

Across the 382 narratives, participants’ stories sometimes focused on multiple higher order themes, which were: practical skills and tasks, interpersonal skills, knowledge, and professional practice. Despite guidance to share prepared and unprepared stories equally, of the 229 stories recounted by medicine participants, there were substantially more unprepared stories than prepared stories. However, of the 153 stories narrated by pharmacy participants, there were similar numbers of unprepared and prepared stories. A synthesis of our RQ1 findings across the four higher order themes is visually represented in Fig.  2 .

Visual representation of our RQ1 findings across the four higher order themes. This figure illustrates the four higher order themes (i.e., practical skills and tasks, interpersonal skills, knowledge, and professional practice) in medicine and pharmacy participants’ preparedness narratives. The thumbs up and thumbs down icons reflect the dominant sub-themes for which participants reported feeling prepared and unprepared for, respectively

Feelings of preparedness for practical skills and tasks

Participants narrated more unprepared stories about practical skills and tasks than prepared stories. Unprepared stories were primarily about patient management, such as difficulties with medications, discharge summaries, suboptimal handover, patients with multiple comorbidities, and management plans. Emergency situations, including Medical Emergency Team calls, and deteriorating or aggressive patients were also challenging for new graduates. Unprepared time management stories included struggling with busy/fast-paced environments, triaging/prioritising tasks, working overtime, and efficiency. This is illustrated by a female pharmacy graduate, who describes her unpreparedness for efficiently completing medication reconciliations in one of her LADs:

“… I had to do the med recs [medication reconciliations]… when you haven’t been on a ward before… when you go through the patient notes, a lot of it is medical abbreviation and jargon… and so it takes me a little while to research it, and then put it into context. And then going through notes after notes. It’s a very time-consuming process…” (FG17P3P1F).

Prepared stories commonly focused on patient management, such as comfort with reviewing patients, medications/fluids, discharge summaries, management plans, writing referrals, and completing tasks/procedures. For example, a female medicine graduate describes her preparedness for catheterising a patient in one of her LADs:

“… this co-intern… they left… before they got a chance to do it [catheterise a patient with urinary retention]. So, I ended up putting the catheter in… I could do this procedure without needing any supervision, without needing to ask for anything. And it went well.” (FG18M5P2F).

Prepared stories about patient assessment included ease with history-taking, performing physical examinations, developing diagnoses and management plans, and reporting back to seniors. Prepared stories were also about medication/IV safety, such as evaluating medication appropriateness, identifying drug interactions and errors, as well as advising on optimal medication timing/duration. Interestingly, medical graduates narrated proportionately more unprepared stories about practical skills and tasks than pharmacy graduates.

Feelings of preparedness for interpersonal skills

Participants recounted more prepared stories about interpersonal skills than unprepared stories. Prepared stories were typically about communication, including comfort with intra/interprofessional interactions (e.g., contacting prescribers, making referrals), completing written documentation (e.g., progress notes, medication charts, discharge summaries), and interviewing/counselling patients and family members. Prepared autonomy stories also included doing activities independently (e.g., making decisions, solving problems). Prepared stories about teamwork/collaboration included ease with building relationships, supporting new team members, requesting/accepting support, and assisting colleagues. For example, one female medicine graduate explains in her entrance interview how she felt prepared to contribute to the workload of the medical team in one of her final year rotations:

“I had a rotation in gen med… There’d be so much paperwork… me and [fellow medical student] had to step up and kind of, help out with the workload of the team, else we would never finish... having the chance to actually do stuff, was actually probably the most important thing [for helping feelings of preparedness]…” (FG11M2P2F).

Unprepared stories predominately focused on communication, including challenges with interviewing/counselling patients and family members (e.g., non-English speakers, breaking bad news, emotional individuals, conflict management), completing written documentation, interacting with seniors (e.g., case presentations, responding to criticism), and intra/interprofessional interactions. Unprepared stories about teamwork/collaboration included difficulties getting along with others, negotiating hierarchies, managing differing opinions, task delegation, and advice/information seeking. For example, one female pharmacy graduate describes in her exit interview her unpreparedness for challenging a medical prescriber’s prescription:

“I took the script down to the pharmacy, and I started dispensing it, and I was kind of like, ‘hmm, this doesn’t seem right’… I said to the pharmacist in the dispensary… ‘Oh, they’ve done this, but they actually need to do this.’ And they’re like, ‘Well, in that case, you need to contact the prescriber.’ I was like, ‘Oh, no, I don’t want to do that.’ [laughs]. And they were like, ‘Well, you’ve got to’…” (FG15P1P1F).

Unprepared accountability/responsibility stories included struggling with running clinics, writing/dictating letters, answering patients’/colleagues’ questions, and escalating care. Interestingly, pharmacy graduates narrated proportionately more prepared and unprepared stories about interpersonal skills than medical graduates.

Feelings of preparedness for knowledge

There were slightly more unprepared stories narrated about knowledge than prepared stories. Unprepared stories primarily focused on clinical knowledge, including challenges with pharmacy internship exam preparation, feeling pressured to have the right answer, encountering unfamiliar scenarios, and lacking knowledge about tests, treatments, and devices. Unprepared knowledge application stories included mind blanks when treating/counselling patients and realising the need to practise skills/tasks and build experience. A female pharmacy graduate describes her unpreparedness in one of her LADs regarding her knowledge of a specific antidepressant:

“[My preceptor] quizzed me on an antidepressant… It was a simple antidepressant… and I thought I knew it. Clearly, I didn’t know as well as I should have. So, I’ve still got a long way to go.” (FG16P2P1F).

Prepared stories were commonly about clinical knowledge, such as comfort with learning/retaining content about conditions, procedures, and medications, answering questions, knowing when to ask for help, and locating information. A female medicine graduate explains in one of her LADs her preparedness for finding information:

“The other thing that I think I’ve been prepared for well is when I don’t know what to do, I can look it up very easily. And we’ve been given a whole bunch of resources that we’ve used throughout med school… that’s been really good to know exactly where to go and how to look something up.” (FG10M1P2F).

Prepared stories about knowledge application included ease with drawing on different information to develop/initiate management plans, identifying medication errors and suggesting alternatives, and recalling information to provide advice. Intriguingly, pharmacy graduates narrated proportionately more unprepared stories about knowledge than medical graduates.

Feelings of preparedness for professional practice

There were slightly more unprepared stories recounted about professional practice than prepared stories. Unprepared stories were predominately about participants’ own health/wellbeing, including difficulties adjusting to full-time work as interns (e.g., night shifts and weekends), establishing routines, maintaining work/life/study balance, taking breaks and personal leave, and managing emotions, exhaustion, and stress. Unprepared lifelong learning stories included challenges with identifying learning goals, keeping abreast of industry news, and exam preparation. Unprepared stories were also about scope of practice, including understanding local prescribing protocols and when to refer to other disciplines. This is illustrated by a male medicine graduate in his exit interview:

“I guess scope of practice is something that I’m still trying to determine… when it’s a good idea to page or request an assessment from other professionals… when a consultant especially asks a task to be done by you, I find it a bit difficult to say, ‘Is it alright if I hand it over to someone else?’...” (FG11M2P1M).

Prepared stories typically focused on lifelong learning, such as comfort with internship training, exam preparation, accepting/learning from mistakes, accessing resources, and drawing on others’ expertise to develop knowledge/skills. Prepared stories about participants’ own health/wellbeing included ease with establishing routines, undertaking self-care activities, and maintaining work/life balance. Prepared self-evaluation stories included mid/end of rotation assessments, participants evaluating their own emotional states and impacts, and critically reflecting on their practice. This is illustrated by a female pharmacy graduate in one of her LADs:

“And other aspects that I enjoyed this week was when I was with more organised pharmacists in the dispensary, and they gave me the opportunity to counsel patients… when I finish counselling, I can reflect back on myself, my performance, and see areas that I could improve on… then when I speak to the next patient, I just try and incorporate the things that I thought I was missing...” (FG16P2P2F).

Interestingly, medical graduates narrated proportionately more unprepared stories about professional practice than pharmacy graduates.

Across the 382 narratives, participants reported substantially fewer narratives before starting internship, compared to during internship. Before internship, narratives were about interpersonal skills, knowledge, practical skills and tasks, and professional practice. Narratives reported during internship commonly focused on practical skills and tasks, interpersonal skills, knowledge, and professional practice. While medicine participants recounted roughly equal numbers of unprepared and prepared stories before internship, there were substantially more unprepared stories during internship. They narrated more prepared stories about interpersonal skills and professional practice before internship, but more unprepared stories for these two themes during internship. They narrated equal numbers of prepared and unprepared stories about knowledge before internship, but this shifted to more unprepared stories during internship. They narrated more unprepared stories about practical skills and tasks before and during internship. Interestingly, pharmacy participants recounted roughly equal numbers of unprepared and prepared stories before and during internship. They narrated more prepared stories about practical skills and tasks, and professional practice before internship. While this positive trend continued during internship for professional practice, the dominant narrative type for practical skills and tasks changed to unprepared. They narrated equal numbers of prepared and unprepared stories about interpersonal skills before internship, but this shifted to more prepared stories during internship. Also showing a positive trend was preparedness for knowledge, where the dominant narrative type changed from unprepared before internship, to prepared during internship. A synthesis of our RQ2 cohort findings over time is visually represented in Fig.  3 .

Visual representation of our RQ2 cohort findings over time. This figure illustrates the dominant narrative types (i.e., prepared = thumbs up or unprepared = thumbs down) for each of the four higher order themes, by profession and time-period. Note that ‘Before internship’ reflects data collected in Phase 1, while ‘During internship’ encompasses data collected in Phases 2 and 3

Changes over time: cohort patterns

In terms of practical skills and tasks, participants consistently recounted more unprepared stories over time. Although unprepared stories before internship commonly focused on patient assessment, patient management, and time management, during internship, they were often about patient management, time management, and emergency situations. Prepared stories before internship were about patient management and patient assessment, yet during internship, they centred on patient management, medication/IV safety, patient assessment, and workplace systems like comfort with electronic medical records, incident reporting, and human resources. Only medical students narrated unprepared stories about practical skills and tasks before internship. Furthermore, medical graduates narrated proportionately more unprepared stories about practical skills and tasks during internship than pharmacy graduates. Pharmacy graduates’ unprepared stories about practical skills and tasks increased over time. Regarding interpersonal skills, participants consistently narrated more prepared stories over time. Prepared stories before internship predominately focused on communication, teamwork/collaboration, and accountability/responsibility. During internship, preparedness for communication and teamwork/collaboration remained common, with the addition of autonomy. While unprepared stories before internship were mostly about communication, accountability/ responsibility, and therapeutic relationships, during internship, they focused on communication, teamwork/collaboration, and accountability/responsibility. Before internship, medical students narrated proportionately fewer unprepared stories about interpersonal skills than pharmacy students. While this pattern continued during internship, the difference was less marked. Concerning knowledge, participants consistently reported more unprepared stories over time. Unprepared stories before and during internship were primarily about clinical knowledge and knowledge application. Similarly, prepared stories before and during internship were typically about clinical knowledge and knowledge application. Before internship, medical students narrated proportionately fewer unprepared stories about knowledge than pharmacy students. While this pattern continued during internship, the difference was less marked. Finally, relating to professional practice, participants narrated more prepared stories before internship, but more unprepared stories during internship. While prepared stories before internship were about participants’ own health/wellbeing, lifelong learning, and scope of practice, during internship, they centred on self-evaluation, lifelong learning, and participants’ own health/wellbeing. Although unprepared stories before internship were about participants’ own health/wellbeing, and lifelong learning, during internship, they focused on participants’ own health/wellbeing, scope of practice, safe practice, and lifelong learning. Only medical students narrated unprepared stories about professional practice before internship. Furthermore, medical graduates narrated proportionately more unprepared stories about professional practice during internship than pharmacy graduates. Pharmacy graduates’ unprepared stories about professional practice increased over time.

Changes through time: illustrative pen portraits

Pen portraits are now presented to illustrate two longitudinal cases (one medicine, one pharmacy). The first case is that of Josie (pseudonym), a female medical graduate (Box  1 ). She participated in an entrance interview, 10 LADs through an 11-week period, and an exit interview, providing 3 h and 58 min of data (weeks 0–23). As a final year student, Josie talked about her placements in rural and metropolitan health services, including in an emergency department. Upon graduation, she began her internship with a 10-week general surgical rotation in a metropolitan health service, before moving to a general medical rotation at a different hospital within the same health service. Josie’s exit interview took place approximately three weeks into her second rotation. The second case is that of Hannah (pseudonym), a female pharmacy graduate (Box  2 ). She participated in an entrance interview, 12 LADs through an 11-week period, and an exit interview, culminating in 4 h and 44 min of data (weeks 0–19). As a final year student, Hannah talked about her placements in community and hospital settings, including on general medicine and renal wards. Upon graduation, she started her internship with a 5-week rotation on a general medical ward in a regional health service. She then moved to the hospital dispensary for a short time, before rotating to a surgical ward with the same health service. Hannah’s exit interview took place approximately four weeks into her time on the surgical ward.

This comparative study explores medical and pharmacy learners’ perceptions of preparedness and unpreparedness, and how these feelings change over the final year student-new graduate transition. Our comparative analysis also provides insights into opportunities for multiprofessional learning before and during new graduate transitions. In this discussion, we first summarise our key findings and compare these with existing literature and theory, especially illustrating where our study extends existing research. We then outline the methodological strengths and limitations of the study, before concluding with the implications of the findings for further research and educational practice.

Summary of key findings and comparison with existing literature and temporal theory

Regarding RQ1, several findings were consistent with existing literature: (a) participants’ examples of preparedness and unpreparedness involving practical skills and tasks, interpersonal skills, and knowledge (e.g., Monrouxe et al., 2017 ; Padley et al., 2021 ); (b) unprepared stories dominating participants’ narratives involving practical skills and tasks such as patient management, time management, and emergency situations (Brinkman et al., 2018 ; Burridge et al., 2020 ; James & Cole, 2016 ); (c) prepared stories dominating participants’ narratives about interpersonal skills such as communication, teamwork/collaboration, and autonomy (Lefroy et al., 2017 ; Monrouxe et al., 2018 ); (d) us coding slightly more unprepared stories involving knowledge like clinical knowledge and knowledge application (Malau-Aduli et al., 2022 ; Merga, 2016 ; Rutter et al., 2013 ); and (e) us coding slightly more unprepared stories involving professional practice such as own health/wellbeing, scope of practice, and lifelong learning (Baten et al., 2018 ; Lundin et al., 2018 ; Merga, 2016 ; Monti et al., 2020 ).

However, our findings for RQ1 extend this literature in several important ways. Firstly, we found that unprepared stories involving practical skills and tasks were especially dominant in medical graduates’ data. Their preoccupation with practical skills and tasks might reflect a broader scope of practice requiring them to enact (and worry about) a wider range of practical skills and tasks than pharmacy graduates. Secondly, we found that prepared and unprepared stories involving interpersonal skills were particularly dominant in pharmacy graduates’ data, suggesting that they were especially preoccupied with their preparedness for interpersonal skills. This preoccupation may reflect this cohort’s traditional knowledge-focused pharmacy curriculum, with only 60 days of experiential placements, before the pharmacy curriculum’s transformation to become more experiential and skills-based including communication and teamworking (Forrester et al., 2023 ). Thirdly, we found that unprepared stories involving knowledge were especially dominant in pharmacy graduates’ data. Their preoccupation with knowledge may reflect the knowledge-focused instruction and assessment that was dominant in their program at that time. It may also reflect pharmacy graduates’ anxieties about causing harm through medication errors, or inaccurate medicines information provided to patients and doctors. Finally, we found that unprepared stories involving professional practice were especially dominant in medical graduates’ data. Their preoccupation with professional practice might reflect their regular night/weekend working affecting their home life more than pharmacy graduates, as well as their challenges with patient management in terms of breaking bad news and death and dying, affecting their coping.

Regarding RQ2, comparing learner experiences before and during internship and thus conceptualising time as fixed and synchronic (Audulv et al., 2022 ; Balmer & Richards, 2022 ; Balmer et al., 2021 ), we found some cohort/discipline evidence of apparent stability over time, as has been found in existing literature (e.g., Chaou et al., 2021 ; Chow et al., 2022 ; Mak et al., 2013 ). In our study sample, we found that unprepared stories involving practical skills and tasks dominated before and during internship for medical participants, and prepared stories about professional practice dominated before and during internship for pharmacy participants. However, we also found cohort/discipline evidence of changes over time, consistent with existing literature (e.g., Chaou et al., 2021 ; Chow et al., 2022 ; Mak et al., 2013 ). In our study sample, while prepared stories were dominant in medical students’ data before internship, unprepared stories dominated during internship, illustrating that medical graduates were especially preoccupied with their unpreparedness for interpersonal skills, knowledge, and professional practice during internship. Conversely, unprepared stories (e.g., involving knowledge, interpersonal skills) were dominant in pharmacy students’ data before internship, yet prepared stories dominated during internship. Furthermore, while prepared stories dominated in pharmacy students’ narratives about practical skills and tasks before internship, unprepared stories dominated during internship.

However, conceptualising time as fluid and diachronic, we found in our two pen portraits changes through time; with evidence of the complexities and nuances of preparedness shifting through time, consistent with one previous UK study of junior doctors published in grey literature (Monrouxe et al., 2014 ). Bringing novelty to the literature, we identified examples of Josie (the medical graduate) and Hannah (the pharmacy graduate) feeling prepared before internship, but then unprepared during internship (e.g., inserting cannulas for Josie, knowledge for Hannah), examples of improved feelings of preparedness during the first three months of work as interns (e.g., cover shifts for Josie, interpersonal skills with colleagues for Hannah), and examples of persistent feelings of unpreparedness over that same time period (e.g., knowledge for Josie, interpersonal skills with patients for Hannah). Indeed, through the entrance/exit interviews and longitudinal audio-diaries, as well as the presentation of in-depth longitudinal pen portraits, we were able to witness the unfolding of Josie and Hannah’s preparedness journeys as they orientated themselves to past, present and future (prospective-retrospective) over a relatively short but intensive time-period (Audulv et al., 2022 ; Balmer et al., 2021 ; Neale, 2018 , 2019 ). Interestingly, this conceptualisation of time as diachronic, subjective, fluid and dynamic (Audulv et al., 2022 ; Balmer & Richards, 2022 ; Balmer et al., 2021 ; Neale, 2018 , 2019 ), clearly illustrated preparedness journeys as non-linear with “detours” and “reversals” mentioned by Balmer et al. ( 2021 , p. 1254).

Methodological strengths and challenges

We collected over 34 h of audio data with 19 medicine and pharmacy participants. Our sample had adequate information power given our narrow study aim (exploring preparedness during the final year student-new graduate transition), dense sample specificity (purposive sampling of final year students from two professions), application of established theory across our broader research program (Multiple and Multidimensional Transitions theory: Jindal-Snape, 2016 ; Rees et al., in press), high-quality interview dialogue (strong researcher-participant rapport supporting the collection of relevant and rich data), and our in-depth analysis strategy (cross-sectional and longitudinal comparative narrative analyses: Malterud et al., 2016 ). We experienced minimal attrition (four participants did not complete an exit interview), by using various engagement strategies including sending regular LAD reminders, acknowledging LAD receipt, providing reassuring feedback on LADs, returning LAD transcripts to participants, and providing $10 gift cards for each study phase completed. We also conducted a rigorous and reflexive team-based analysis of voluminous qualitative data, employing NVivo, which helped us to make sense of our data (the whole dataset, as well as individual cases) cross-sectionally and longitudinally.

However, our study is not without its challenges, and these must be considered before drawing conclusions. First, although our findings are largely supportive of existing international research, our study was conducted in one Australian university only, so our findings (and study implications) may lack transferability to non-Australian contexts with different models of healthcare education and service delivery. Second, given our funding constraints, we collected data over a relatively modest time-period (6-months); shorter than other longitudinal studies (e.g., Chaou et al., 2021 ; Mak et al., 2013 ; Monrouxe et al., 2014 ), and the time-periods suggested for graduates to feel prepared (e.g., Burridge et al., 2020 ; Walker et al., 2013 ). However, timeframe and tempo are often inter-connected in QLR (Rees & Ottrey, in press), so the relatively short duration is partly compensated for by the intensive weekly tempo of data collection for LADs. Plus, this study fills an important gap in the literature on early transitions into clinical practice in pharmacy (Brennan et al., 2024 ). Furthermore, our participants mostly identified as female and Oceanian, so our findings may not represent the experiences of those identifying as male or from an ethnic minority. Finally, our QLR findings outline patterns of dominance in participants’ narratives, which are not to be confused with prevalence of preparedness or unpreparedness across time. Indeed, despite us asking participants for equal numbers of prepared and unprepared stories across their transitions, we know that emotional experiences are more likely to be remembered and narrated (Rees et al. 2013 ), potentially accounting for the dominance in unprepared narratives across our study. However, this is an important finding in of itself, as we can see clearly in our QLR findings what issues students are most preoccupied with in terms of their preparedness and when, suggesting when they may be most receptive to transition interventions (and on what topics).

Study implications

Given our study challenges, we recommend that further research is conducted at non-Australian universities (representing different models of healthcare education and service delivery) to establish the transferability of our findings to wider-ranging contexts. We also encourage researchers to conduct QLR across longer study durations to track the ebbs and flows of preparedness for practice across the internship year, and into full registration. Finally, further research should encourage the participation of students and graduates representing demographics underrepresented in this study (e.g., those identifying as male, and culturally and linguistically diverse professionals).

Regarding educational implications, this study set out to understand what (if any) opportunities exist to develop multiprofessional transition to practice interventions, when these interventions should be optimally timed, and on what topics. In Table  2 , we outline recommendations for educators based on our findings. While the cross-sectional findings for RQ1 imply that uniprofessional transition interventions could be preferred (because medical and pharmacy learners are preoccupied with unpreparedness for different things), our longitudinal findings for RQ2 clearly indicate opportunities for multiprofessional transition interventions in final year and during the first few months of work as interns.

Data availability

We do not have ethics approval to share our data openly, in order to protect the privacy of our study participants.

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Acknowledgements

We would like to thank all participants for sharing their views and experiences of preparedness with us over their graduate transition. We would also like to thank Julia Harrison and Suzanne Caliph for their assistance with participant recruitment. And we would like to thank other members of the broader research team not co-authoring this paper (Julia Morphet, Monash Nursing & Midwifery).

Open Access funding enabled and organized by CAUL and its Member Institutions. This study was funded by a Monash University Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences 2019 Teaching & Learning Research Grant.

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Ella Ottrey, Charlotte E. Rees, Caitlin Kemp & Claire Palermo

School of Health Sciences, College of Health, Medicine & Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia

Charlotte E. Rees

Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, Australia

Kayley M. Lyons & Tina P. Brock

Centre for Digital Transformation of Health, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Science, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia

Kayley M. Lyons

Centre for Collaborative Practice, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia

Tina P. Brock

Medicine Course, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing & Health Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia

Michelle Leech

School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Sydney, NSW, Australia

Lynn V. Monrouxe

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CER, TPB, ML, LVM, and CP designed and secured funding for the study. EO and CK secured ethics approval. CK, KML and EO were involved in recruitment and collecting data. All authors were involved in analysing and interpreting data. EO and CER wrote the paper, so are joint first authors. All remaining authors commented on and/or edited the paper. All authors give their final approval for this version to be published.

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Correspondence to Charlotte E. Rees .

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Appendix 1 illustrations of interview questions and audio-diary prompts*, appendix 1 illustrations of interview questions and audio-diary prompts *.

*We only include questions and prompts here relevant to learners’ preparedness for practice experiences focused on in this paper; questions/prompts relevant to conceptualisations of transitions and preparedness, and broader transition experiences are published elsewhere (Ottrey et al., 2021 ; Rees et al., 2022 ; in press). Please contact the corresponding author to request copies of the full discussion and LAD guides.

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Ottrey, E., Rees, C.E., Kemp, C. et al. Exploring preparedness transitions in medicine and pharmacy: a qualitative longitudinal study to inform multiprofessional learning opportunities. Adv in Health Sci Educ (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10459-024-10372-w

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Ryan Nobles

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., said at his weekly news conference that it would be “politically beyond stupid” to shut down the government before the election and that Republicans “would certainly be blamed.”

"It would be politically beyond stupid for us to do that right before the election because certainly, we get the blame,” McConnell said. “We’ve been here before. I’m for whatever avoids a government shutdown, and that’ll ultimately end up, obviously, being a discussion between the Democratic leader and the speaker of the House as to how to process avoiding a government shutdown.”

McConnell also said he would be open increasing funding for the Secret Service as part of a continuing resolution.

Vance says he has no plans to visit Springfield, Ohio

Vance told reporters this afternoon that he hasn't made plans to visit Springfield, the Ohio city that has been in the spotlight this month following baseless claims that he and Trump have made about Haitian immigrants' eating residents' pets.

Vance responded to a question about  NBC News’ reporting  that Trump soon plans to visit the city and was asked whether he would join Trump on the trip or whether he had made his own plans to visit.

"I don’t know there’s anything firm just yet. So my attitude towards it is doing what’s best for the residents in Springfield. I haven’t made plans to go just in the last few days," Vance said. "I know the president would like to go but also hasn’t made any explicit plans. And certainly when they do it, if they do it, it’ll be with full concern about the safety and security of the residents in mind."

Harris on Springfield: 'My heart breaks for this community'

During her panel interview, the interviewers asked Harris for her thoughts about the Springfield, Ohio, bomb threats and comments from Vance.

"When you have that kind of microphone in front of you, you really ought to understand at a very deep level how much your words have meaning," she said, adding, "It's a crying shame, literally, what's happening to those families, those children in that community."

Harris sidesteps question about Gaza policy changes

Curtis Bunn

Asked whether she had any specific policy change she would implement in U.S. policy on Israel and Gaza, Harris did not answer directly.

"We need to get this deal done. That is my position, and that is my policy," Harris said.  "We need a cease-fire deal. We need a hostage deal."

Pressed about whether she would strike a tougher position on sending weapons to Israel, she said that she was a staunch defender of Israel and that it has a right to defend itself. She also said she has been involved in discussions with Israeli leaders and others in the area, but she would not disclose what was said. "We've made very clear this deal needs to get done," she said.

Some in the audience appeared uncomfortable as Harris continued to avoid direct answers to some questions, especially when she was asked whether she would, as president, issue an executive order to create a commission to study reparations.

Ultimately, she said, it would come down to Congress, an answer that seemed to deflate the attendees.

Harris touts economic plan at NABJ event

The NABJ event is underway, with Harris discussing her economic plan.

Asked about people who are struggling financially, Harris promoted her plan to spur the construction of new housing with tax credits and to offer financial assistance for first-time homebuyers and expand the child tax credit.

Harris and Trump spoke this afternoon

Nnamdi Egwuonwu

According to a White House official, Harris called Trump this afternoon to speak with him directly following the apparent assassination attempt and express that she is glad he is safe. The conversation was "cordial and brief," the official said.

Vance says Georgia abortion case is an 'unspeakable tragedy'

While addressing supporters in Michigan, Vance addressed the story published yesterday by ProPublica about a Georgia mother who died after waiting 20 hours for a hospital to treat her abortion pill complications.

“It’s an unspeakable tragedy. It should never happen in this country," he said. "And that’s why we believe on the pro-life side in the life of the mother exception.”

He also said he would also like to learn more about the details of the case, which NBC News has not independently confirmed.

NABJ event in Philadelphia packed before Harris interview

Roughly 90 minutes before Harris' interview is expected to begin, the space at WHYY Philadelphia was packed with students from local HBCUs, guests and a small contingent of media.

Springfield mayor urges those with a 'national stage' to speak carefully

Summer Concepcion

Nicole Moeder

The Republican mayor of Springfield, Ohio, urged public figures to understand the “great weight” of their words and the negative impacts they can have during an interview on MSNBC’s "Andrea Mitchell Reports."

Asked about the false claims of Haitian immigrants eating household pets that Trump and Vance continue to push, Mayor Rob Rue said the false rumors need to “quiet down” and that the city needs “help, not hate, we need peace.”

“If you have the national stage and you’re a national politician, please understand the words that you’re saying have great weight and how they can negatively affect the community like Springfield, Ohio,” Rue said.

Bomb threats tied to the false claims have forced the closures of schools and municipal buildings in the city.

Rue said that each threat is “taken seriously” and that the city has had to “take precautions to make sure their community is secure” such as crowd cameras deployed by the state of Ohio to monitor key strategic locations. The mayor of Springfield noted that state troopers and bomb dogs were deployed at every school building in the city at 6 a.m. today.

Billie Eilish endorses Harris on Voter Registration Day

Singer Billie Eilish and her brother, fellow musician Finneas, endorsed Harris-Walz today in a video posted to X.

"We are voting for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz because they are fighting to protect our reproductive freedom, our planet, and our democracy," Eilish said.

Her brother says, "The only way to stop them and the dangerous Project 2025 agenda is to vote and elect Kamala Harris." Since entering the race, Harris has nabbed several major celebrity endorsements, including from Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande and Oprah Winfrey.

Trump to participate in fighting antisemitism event with GOP megadonor Miriam Adelson

Trump is expected to participate Thursday in an event related to fighting antisemitism in Washington, D.C. According to a press release, GOP megadonor Miriam Adelson and other Jewish supporters will be in attendance.

Adelson is a major financial backer of Trump and Republicans and she attended the Republican Jewish Coalition in Las Vegas earlier this month. While in office in 2018, Trump honored her with the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

House will vote on Speaker Johnson’s funding plan as shutdown looms

WASHINGTON — Speaker Mike Johnson said the House will vote tomorrow on a  six-month stopgap funding bill  linked to legislation  requiring proof of citizenship to register to vote  — the same package he  abruptly pulled off the floor  last week amid growing GOP opposition.

Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, spent the weekend calling members and trying to flip GOP defections to the yes column. But given Republicans’ narrow 220-211 majority, and some members’  blanket opposition to short-term bills  known as continuing resolutions or CRs, it’s highly unlikely Johnson can push the package through the House.

Emhoff campaigns for Harris in Washington

Second gentleman Doug Emhoff will stump for Harris in Washington, D.C., where he'll speak at a campaign reception.

Democrat Jim Himes calls out Republicans who 'point the finger' on apparent assassination attempt

Ranking House Intelligence Committee member Jim Himes, D-Conn., today called out Republicans who are p lac ing blame on Democrats for the apparent assassination attempt against Trump on Sunday.

“If your instinct is to point the fingers at your political opponents, you are doing this wrong. And you are eroding Americans’ faith in their democracy," he said in an interview with MSNBC.

In Atlanta yesterday, Vance said, “No one has tried to kill Kamala Harris in the last couple of months, and two people now have tried to kill Donald Trump in the last couple of months. I’d say that’s pretty strong evidence that the left needs to tone down the rhetoric and needs to cut this crap out. "

Trump also made similar comments yesterday on social media.

Walz: 'Differences are solved at the ballot box'

At a political event in Macon, Georgia, Walz addressed the second apparent assassination attempt against Trump, condemning political violence.

“All of us know we don’t solve our differences in this country with violence," he said. "We condemn it in all its forms. We solve our differences at the ballot box."

In the afternoon, Walz heads to Asheville, North Carolina, for a campaign rally.

Harris says abortion-related death in Georgia 'are the consequences of Donald Trump's actions'

Harris responded to a ProPublica report on a 28-year-old woman’s abortion-related death in Georgia by saying that Trump is to blame for the state’s restrictive abortion laws. According to ProPublica, Amber Nicole Thurman died after she didn’t receive timely medical care to treat a rare complication after taking abortion pills.

NBC News has not independently verified the report. In response to a request for comment on Harris’ statement, Trump campaign national press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a statement that the former president "has always supported exceptions for rape, incest, and the life of the mother, which Georgia’s law provides."

"With those exceptions in place, it’s unclear why doctors did not swiftly act to protect Amber Thurman’s life," Leavitt said.

“This young mother should be alive, raising her son, and pursuing her dream of attending nursing school,” Harris said in a statement. She said the story is "exactly what we feared" when the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022.

“In more than 20 states, Trump Abortion Bans are preventing doctors from providing basic medical care. Women are bleeding out in parking lots, turned away from emergency rooms, losing their ability to ever have children again,” Harris said. “Survivors of rape and incest are being told they cannot make decisions about what happens next to their bodies. And now women are dying. These are the consequences of Donald Trump’s actions.”

Harris warned that if Trump is elected, he would sign a national abortion ban “and these horrific realities will multiply."

Nikki Haley to launch a weekly podcast through Inauguration Day

Former Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley is set to launch a weekly podcast that will air Wednesdays at 8 a.m. on SiriusXM through Inauguration Day, the radio broadcasting corporation announced today.

The podcast, titled “Nikki Haley Live,” will run for an hour and will premiere next week. Haley will analyze the week’s top headlines and election news and feature conversations with key figures and callers, according to a press release.

Haley has made regular media appearances to offer suggestions on Trump and Vance’s campaign. In an interview on Fox News’ “Fox and Friends” last week, the former South Carolina governor said she thinks Trump and Vance need to change the way they speak about women and turn their focus on policy issues.

Vance campaigns in Michigan and Wisconsin

Vance will deliver remarks in Sparta, Michigan — a town with just over 4,200 residents — today at 1:30 p.m.

In the evening, Vance will make his fifth trip to Wisconsin this campaign, speaking at an event in Eau Claire.

Harris to field questions from Black reporters weeks after Trump questioned her heritage

PHILADELPHIA — Harris will take questions from three members of the National Association of Black Journalists today, six weeks after Trump questioned her ethnicity  and clashed with a journalist at the organization’s national convention in Chicago.

Harris declined  an invitation from NABJ to attend the August convention  because it conflicted with the funeral of Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, D-Texas.

Today at WHYY, a public radio station in downtown Philadelphia, Harris will field questions from Tonya Mosley, co-host of NPR’s “Fresh Air” and host of the “Truth Be Told” podcast; Gerren Keith Gaynor, White House correspondent and managing editor of politics at TheGrio; and Eugene Daniels, Playbook co-author and White House correspondent for Politico.

NABJ said PolitiFact will perform fact-checks in real time, which will also be shared using the hashtag #NABJFactCheck on social media and through a live feed on the  NABJ website .

The event will be livestreamed on  NABJ’s YouTube  and  Facebook  pages. But it is not an official campaign event, and it is open only to select NABJ members and 100 students from historically Black colleges and universities.

Trump’s golf partner recalls moment Secret Service dived on him during assassination attempt

Garrett Haake

Patrick Smith Patrick Smith is a London-based editor and reporter for NBC News Digital.

A golfing partner of Trump has described the dramatic moment he heard gunshots and saw Secret Service agents dive on top of the former president during the  apparent assassination attempt  at his Florida golf course Sunday.

Businessman Steve Witkoff, a longtime Trump friend and political donor, told NBC News on Tuesday that he knew immediately that a series of loud “pops” was gunfire, and praised the Secret Service for their quick response in getting Trump off the golf course in under 20 seconds.

A suspect, Ryan Routh, was  charged Monday night  with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number. Routh hid in bushes for up to 12 hours and pointed a semiautomatic weapon at Trump from about 400 yards away, authorities said.

Trump had “a guy who follows him right behind him, but there’s also people perched next to him. The entire team converged on top of him, except for the snipers,” Witkoff told NBC’s “TODAY” show.

“The snipers separated and they came within 3 yards of me, put the tripods down, and they were aiming right at the spot where the shots had come from.”

Where third-party candidates have gotten on — or off — the ballot in key swing states

Jiachuan Wu

Third-party candidates have played a big role in deciding key presidential battleground states in the last few years — meaning which (and how many) candidates will actually be on the ballot state by state could matter a lot in a close election.

That reality has led to a series of protracted court battles over ballot access across the country. In recent weeks, state supreme courts in North Carolina and Michigan issued different decisions, allowing Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to remove himself from the ballot in the first state but keeping him on the ballot in the second state . After spending millions to get on state ballots, Kennedy has attempted to pull back since endorsing Trump. 

Kennedy initially sparked fears among Democrats that the descendent of one of the Democratic Party’s most storied families could jeopardize their path to the White House. But Kennedy’s base of support grew more and more right-leaning in 2024, eventually pulling more from people who might back Trump. And there are still other third-party candidates, including some familiar faces and some new ones, whose presence on key state ballots could affect the November results.

American Federation of Teachers runs ads in swing states targeting Trump and Vance's rhetoric

The American Federation of Teachers is set to air three ads in key battleground states featuring its president, Randi Weingarten, alongside educators and parents criticizing Trump and Vance’s comments on defunding public schools, school shootings and teachers who don’t have children.

A TV ad, titled “Team Kid,” will air statewide in Pennsylvania and is narrated by Weingarten. “No Clue,” a 30-second radio ad, will also run in the state and features a father pushing back on Trump and Vance’s disparaging comments about Haitian immigrants and inaction on gun violence at schools. A 30-second digital video ad, titled “A Lesson for JD Vance,” will target voters within 5 miles of Vance’s scheduled campaign stops, including those in Michigan and North Carolina, and focuses on remarks by Trump’s running mate on childless educators.

The AFT’s ad campaign comes after bomb threats forced schools and city buildings in Springfield, Ohio, to close after Vance, Trump and others on social media made false claims about Haitian immigrants there eating household pets. Vance’s 2021 remarks criticizing people who don’t have children, including Weingarten, drew scrutiny after resurfacing recently.

DNC launches texting hotline to help potential supporters navigate the voting process

Emma Barnett

The Democratic National Committee is launching a textline Tuesday to help people with voting questions, aiming to reach voters where they are — on their phones — when they need help with something about the ballot-casting process in the next 49 days before Election Day.

Ahead of National Voter Registration Day, DNC chair Jaime Harrison said in a statement to NBC News that the effort is aimed especially at helping young people navigate the voting process.

“Every voter deserves to make their voice heard and cast their ballot for the future they want to see, which is why we’ve invested millions into our ‘I Will Vote’ program and have launched a new text hotline to get young voters real time information and live support directly on their phones in the run up to Election Day,” Harrison said in the statement.

The textline is monitored by DNC employees and volunteers who will be able to provide real-time answers via text when users have questions regarding any step of the voting process. Those questions can range from how to register to vote to how to spot or address poll worker misconduct.

Any voter can use the service regardless of partisan affiliation. The DNC said the information they are sharing is nonpartisan, though it’s being run by a party committee.

Harris to sit for interview with the National Association of Black Journalists

Harris will be in Philadelphia today to participate in a discussion hosted by the National Association of Black Journalists.

Harris, who has faced criticism for doing very few media interviews, will speak with a panel of three journalists before an audience of NABJ members and local HBCU journalism and communications students, according to NABJ.

The event comes a month-and-a-half after Trump participated in a combative interview at NABJ's annual conference, where he focused on Harris' race and baselessly suggested that she had recently decided to "turn Black" for political purposes.

Trump to participate in town hall moderated by Sarah Huckabee Sanders

Trump will participate in town hall tonight in Flint, Michigan. The event will be moderated by Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders, who served for two years as White House press secretary during his administration.

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Gaynor followed up with a question about young Black men, which polling shows are less enthused about her candidacy than Black women and older Black men. A recent NAACP poll shows that, while 78% of Black voters nationwide are feeling similar excitement to when President Barack Obama first ran, only 56% of Black male voters aged 18–49 said they would vote for Harris. Meanwhile, a quarter of young Black men said they would vote for Donald Trump, potentially dooming her chances in Pennsylvania, where the election may hinge on the Black vote.

“What is your message to young Black male voters who feel left out of this economy and how can your economic policies materially change your lives?” Gaynor asked.

Harris responded that she did not see the Black male vote as a monolith and that she would not take it for granted.

“Black men are like any other voting group, you got to earn their vote,” she said. “I’m working to earn the vote, not assuming I’m going to have it because I am Black, but because the policies and the perspectives I have, I understand what we must do to recognize the needs of all communities.”

She added that her economic plan included creating opportunities for Black voters and all Americans, such as increasing tax deductions for small businesses from $5,000 to $50,000, as well as reducing obstacles to homeownership and reducing the harm of medical debt, which disproportionately affects Black families. She added that she had already been working on such issues when she launched the Economic Opportunity Tour that visited Black communities even before her candidacy for the presidency.

Mosley broached another topic of concern for many Democrats: the war in Gaza , noting that Harris has “called for a ceasefire hostage deal and a two-state solution as an end to the war for many months now.”

“While you’ve expressed support for Israel to defend itself, a two-state solution and a ceasefire are at odds with what Benjamin Netanyahu has said is their right to defense,” she said. “If it matters, as you say, how Israel defends itself, where do you see the line between aggression and defense and our power as Israel’s ally to do something?”

Harris was adamant that she would immediately go to work to broker a hostage deal and a ceasefire, however she reiterated her belief in Israel’s right to self-defense.

“October 7th, 1,200 Israelis were slaughtered and actually some Americans in that number, by the way,” she said. “Slaughtered young people who were attending a concert, women were horribly raped. And so I have said Israel has a right to defend itself.”

Mosley interrupted Harris to say “my ask is the difference between aggression and self-defense.”

“It’s important to put it in context, which is what I’m doing and I’ll get to that,” Harris retorted, adding that the way Israel defends itself is the question.

“Far too many innocent Palestinians have been killed, women and children, we have seen with horror the images coming out of Gaza,” she said. “And we have to take that seriously, and we have to agree that not only must we end this war.”

Harris argued that a two-state solution is the route to peace in the region.

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4 months ago

Mosley followed up asking what “What levers does the U.S. have to support Palestinians in their right to self-determination, and is it even possible as Israel’s ally?”

“Absolutely the United States of America absolutely has a role, which is why we have been active in particular with the Qatari and the Egyptians around attempting to get a deal done and get it done as quickly as possible,” Harris answered. She said that such negotiations must include principles such as “that there be no reoccupation of Gaza, that there be no changing of the territorial lines in Gaza.”

Asked about reproductive health rights, Harris said she would work “to put the protections of Roe v. Wade back into law. And when that bill gets passed by Congress, I will proudly sign it into law… It should not be the government or Donald Trump telling her what to do about her own body and her life.”

Gaynor asked about Harris’ previous support for HR 40, which would create a commission to study the history of slavery in the country and study the issue of reparations and whether, as president, she would use an executive order to create such a commission. Harris said she believed it should be an act of Congress.

“If you’re going to talk about it in any substantial way, there will be hearings,” she said. “There will be a level of public education and dialogue. And I think that was part of the spirit behind the congressional action thus far, to ensure that everyone can participate in this conversation in a way that elevates knowledge about history and the reference points that are the impetus of this conversation.”

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About Carmen Russell-Sluchansky

Carmen Munir Russell-Sluchansky is WHYY News' multiplatform reporter, politics.

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