How to Prepare for a Job Interview in Nigeria: A Simple Guide
A step-by-step guide to preparing for your interview, from research to what to wear and the questions to practise.
Being invited for an interview means the employer already likes your CV. Now you have to show them in person. Good preparation makes the difference.
Before the interview
Research the company. Know what they do, who their customers are, and the job you applied for.
Read the job advert again. Prepare an example from your life or past work for each requirement.
Plan your journey. Lagos traffic is real. Know the route, and plan to arrive 15 to 20 minutes early.
Prepare your documents. Bring copies of your CV, certificates and valid ID in a neat folder.
Questions you should practise
"Tell me about yourself." Keep it to one minute: who you are, your experience, and why you want this job.
"Why do you want to work here?" Use what you learned in your research.
"What are your strengths?" Give one or two, with an example.
"What is your weakness?" Be honest, and explain what you are doing to improve.
"Why did you leave your last job?" Stay positive. Do not speak badly about a former employer.
"What salary do you expect?" Know the usual range for the role before you go in.
On the day
Dress neatly and simply. Clean and ironed is better than expensive.
Switch off your phone or put it on silent.
Greet everyone politely, including the receptionist.
Listen to the full question before you answer.
Look at the interviewer and speak clearly.
At the end
Ask one or two questions yourself, such as "What would success look like in the first three months?" Then thank them. Sending a short thank-you message afterwards is a good habit.
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