You did it. Your resume stood out, your cover letter shone, and now the big day is just a few hours away. The job interview. It’s normal to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety, but how you spend the night before can be the secret ingredient to walking in (or logging on) with unshakable confidence.

Success isn’t just about what you do during the interview; it’s about the job interview preparation you do beforehand. Forget last-minute cramming. The goal for the night before your job interview is to be prepared, polished, and peaceful.

Here is your essential checklist of 10 things to do the night before your job interview to set yourself up for success.

1. Review, Don’t Cram

Your brain isn’t a hard drive you can load with data at the last minute. Instead of frantically re-reading everything, do a final, calm review. Glance over:

• The Job Description: Remind yourself of the key responsibilities and qualifications.
• Your Resume & Cover Letter: Be ready to talk about anything you’ve listed.
• The Company’s Website: Re-familiarize yourself with their mission, values, and recent news.

This light review keeps the important details fresh without causing information overload.

2. Prepare Your “STAR” Stories

Competency-based questions like “Tell me about a time when…” are a staple of modern interviews. Instead of trying to invent answers on the spot, have a few success stories ready. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your best examples of leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and initiative. This is a core part of effective interview preparation.

3. Formulate Your Questions

An interview is a two-way street. Not having questions for the interviewer can be a red flag, suggesting a lack of interest. Prepare 3-5 thoughtful questions that show you’re engaged and thinking about your future with the company. Ask about team culture, challenges in the role, or opportunities for growth.

4. Lay Out Your Outfit

This is one of the easiest yet most effective interview tips. Decide on your entire outfit from head to toe—and lay it out. Check for wrinkles, stains, or missing buttons. Make sure your shoes are clean. Eliminating this decision from your morning routine reduces stress and saves precious time.

5. Pack Your Bag (or Prep Your Tech)

• For In-Person Interviews: Pack your bag with everything you need: several copies of your resume, a notepad and pen, your list of questions, a bottle of water, and directions to the location.
• For Virtual Interviews: This is your tech check. Test your camera and microphone. Make sure your internet connection is stable. Check the interview link to ensure it works. Tidy up your background and adjust your lighting.

6. Plan Your Journey & Timing

Whether you’re driving, taking public transport, or walking to your laptop, know the logistics. For an in-person interview, look up the route and check for potential traffic or delays. Plan to arrive in the area 30 minutes early, but only enter the building 10-15 minutes before your scheduled time. For a virtual interview, plan to be settled at your desk 15 minutes early.

7. Eat a Smart Meal & Hydrate

What to do before an interview also includes fueling your body correctly. Opt for a balanced, familiar meal that won’t upset your stomach. Avoid excessive alcohol or caffeine, as they can disrupt your sleep. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

8. Unplug and De-stress

Your brain needs to rest. About an hour before you plan to sleep, put away the screens. Constant scrolling and last-minute “research” will only heighten your anxiety. Instead, do something that calms you down. Read a book, listen to relaxing music, do some light stretching, or meditate. Reducing interview anxiety is key to a great performance.

9. Set Multiple Alarms

This is a simple but non-negotiable step on your interview checklist. Set at least two separate alarms (e.g., your phone and a clock). Knowing you have a backup will give you peace of mind and help you sleep more soundly, without the nagging fear of oversleeping.

10. Get a Good Night’s Sleep

This is the most crucial part of your preparation the night before your job interview. A well-rested mind is sharper, quicker, and more articulate. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep. It will help you manage nerves, think clearly, and present the best version of yourself for job interview success.

By focusing on preparation and relaxation, you can transform pre-interview jitters into focused energy. Walk into that interview knowing you’ve done everything you can to succeed.

---