written by Peter Kosel, Talent Community Manager at cyberunity AG

 

Be prepared – your interview warm-up

 

We’ve compiled the following insights and feedback from our clients over the past years to help you prepare for upcoming job interviews.

 

Think of it as your personal warm-up.

 

Many candidates say these points are obvious.

In practice, however, we still hear the same feedback repeatedly.

 

Take what works for you.

And above all: stay authentic.

 

First impressions count

 

Virtual interview set-up

Quiet environment. Neutral background.

Stable camera – no shaking.

Eye-level positioning instead of a top-down angle.

 

Audio

Use a headset to avoid echo and background noise.

 

Communication

Listen carefully.

Only speak once the other person has finished.

Be concise and structured in your answers.

Keep an eye on timing.

 

Test

Test your setup beforehand.

Especially when using a new platform.

Know how to control audio and video.

A smooth setup beats explaining technical issues.

 

The most common reasons for rejection

 

Too long-winded

Did not get to the point.

Questions not clearly answered.

 

Lack of clarity

It became obvious the answer was not known.

Instead of saying so, the question was avoided.

This wastes valuable interview time.

 

Too much detail

Even with strong expertise: stay focused.

Ask before going deeper into details.

 

Lack of preparation

No knowledge about the company or current topics.

No relevant questions prepared.

 

Wrong focus

Only asking about salary, working hours or benefits.

No interest shown in role, environment or strategy.

 

Inconsistent salary expectations

Mismatch between prior discussions and interview statements.

 

First impressions count.

And final impressions last.

 

Best practices for your interview

 

Clarity

Take your interviewer with you.

Structure your thoughts clearly.

 

High- and lowlights

Achievements matter.

But so do challenges.

Not just major setbacks – everyday obstacles as well.

 

Motivation

Why this job?

What excites you about it?

Be ready with concrete examples.

 

Why Switzerland?

Especially important for international candidates.

Provide clear, fact-based reasons.

 

Success on the job

What is your recipe for success?

What have you changed or improved?

 

Creating something new

Where have you built or developed something?

What was your contribution?

 

Know your development areas

Be aware of your improvement potential.

Show reflection and a forward-looking mindset.

 

Notes

Shows structure and interest.

Also relevant in virtual settings.

 

At the end of the interview

Always ask about next steps.

No matter how well it went.

 

Motto

 

Preparation is not optional.

It is part of your positioning.

 

Clarity beats perfection.

Structure beats spontaneity.

 

And that is what people remember.

 

This article is part of the cyberunity CV series for Cyber Security Professionals in the DACH region.