Interview preparation: Face-to-Face; Phone; Video

INTERVIEW PREP 101

Your phone rings…you answer enthusiastically and with anticipation. It’s the recruiter you recently spoke with. You remember, the one that told you about your dream job, the job that ticks all the boxes at a company you have been following for years. The recruiter has actually secured you an interview, you agree on a mutually agreeable time and date.

Now it’s time to prepare!

First off, get as much information as you can from the recruiter to help you.

• Will the interview by via phone, video, face to face (if face to face what is their COVID protocol?)
• Who is interviewing you? Get their names and LinkedIn profiles if you can.
• What will the interview process be?
• Will it be conversational based around your experience on your resume?
• Will it be competency based?
• Will it be technical?
• What is the interviewer’s usual interview style?

(A good recruiter should provide you with all this information anyway, because they want you to get the job.)

So now it’s your turn…

Looking at the company website is not enough in today’s competitive job market. But the good news is Google, LinkedIn, and business news sites have all the information you need and its incredibly easy to access. Other business research such as Gartner and Forrester Research can be useful to see what the company does and who they compete with.

Information to research:

• Research what the company does today—not based on outdated info.
• Review their website: Understand products, services, and target customers.
• Identify their competitors and what differentiates them.
• Check recent news: Look for updates on mergers, partnerships, new products, or executive hires.
• If publicly traded, review their stock performance or IPO plans.
• Explore LinkedIn for current employees or mutual connections—ask for insights or referrals.
• Know your interviewers: Look for shared interests, backgrounds, or mutual networks to build rapport.

So now you know all about the company…But do you know enough about yourself?Know your resume inside and out. You can’t prepare for every single question that they you will be ask. But remembering your achievements will certainly help on the day. Take a copy of your resume with you, both for you and your interviewer. It's ok to refer to it- just don'r read from it during the interview.

Interviewing is a two-way street

Prepare questions to ask. Some may get answered as you go through the interview. But it always good to have a list of 5-10 printed off to take in with you. Again, that way you can refer to them if you get nervous or forget.Example questions of what to ask in an interview can include:

• If I were successful in this role, what would a typical day in this role look like?
• What are your expectations for this position for the first 30, 60 and 90 days?
• Where do you see the company going in the next 12-24 months?
• What was it that drew you to the company?
• What do you like most about working here?
• Can you describe the culture of the company?
• Who do you consider your top competitor and why?
• What are the biggest challenges facing your team/department right now?
• What is the typical career path for someone in this role?
• What are the next steps in the interview process?

Here's our step-by-step plan for interview prep

1. Pre‑Interview Research & Planning

• Understand the format: Clarify whether you’ll face a panel in person, take a phone or video interview, or go through an AI‑screening tool.
• Learn the interviewer's background: Review LinkedIn profiles to identify shared interests, recent projects, or articles they’ve published.
• Dig deeper into the company: Examine recent projects (e.g., Open RAN trials, green infrastructure), financial moves, competitors, and technology investments—especially in AI and sustainability.
• Be interview type ready: Know whether the interview will be technical, competency‑based, scenario‑driven, or a mix.
• Tip: Mentioning a recent sustainability-linked investment (e.g., fibre rollouts powered by renewables) helps underscore your genuine interest.

2. Know Your Story

• Master your CV: You should be able to pivot your narrative to match the role—whether devops engineer or renewable energy analyst.
• Prepare STAR examples: Think of succinct, memorable stories about successes, learnings from failure, cross-functional teamwork, and creative problem-solving.
• Demonstrate industry agility: With rapid change across telecoms, be ready to discuss how you’ve adapted to new tech—like AI-powered RAN, Open RAN integration, or green upgrades.

3. Phone Interviews

• Choose a quiet space with strong signal.
• Keep your CV and research in view.
• Smile, even if unseen, it transmits in your tone.
• Note key points to reference in follow-ups.

4. Video Interviews

• Ensure camera and audio quality, and dress professionally—top to toe.
• Frame yourself clearly and maintain eye‑level gaze.
• Use neutral, uncluttered backgrounds or a subtle virtual backdrop.
• Test your platform (Zoom, Teams, etc.) early to prevent glitch issues.
• Show engagement with nods - even in short bursts.

5. In‑Person Interviews

• Dress smartly and professionally—no caffeine overdoses that boost nerves.
• Map out venue logistics, arrive ~10 minutes early.
• Confirm any workplace health policies in advance.
• Bring extras: CV copies, portfolio, notebook.
• During the interview: maintain eye contact, lean in, and match interviewer tone—engaged and enthusiastic.
• Close with thanks and reaffirm your interest.

6. AI & Automated Screening

• Many employers now start with AI‑driven assessments. Here’s how to ace them:
• Online assessments: Practice common aptitude and coding tests using platforms like SHL or HackerRank.
• Pre‑interview video if used: Record concise, clear answers without fillers. Smile and use consistent tone.
• Timing matters: Avoid rushing. You typically have 60 seconds to think before responding.
• Review performance: Some platforms allow re-takes—use the feedback to improve.

7. Final Tips & Interview Tricks

• Prepare a shortlist of quality questions (5–8) about team priorities, sustainability goals, tech stack, or ROI from new systems.
• Ask about expected outcomes in 30–60–90 days—shows strategic thinking and ambition.
• Close by seeking clarity: “What are the next steps in your process—and when should I expect an update?”

Why This Matters in 2025

• Hybrid formats: Organisations may move swiftly—from AI screeners to face‑to‑face rounds within days.
• Skill spotlight: Candidates who display agility, remote‑working competency, and familiarity with digital tools stand out.
• Tech smarts count: Demonstrating insights into trending verticals (cloud RAN, green energy, intelligent automation) signals readiness for modern roles.
• Soft skills still win: Clear storytelling, emotional intelligence, and professionalism remain critical, even in technical sectors.