12 Interview Prep Books to Ace Your Interview

Nailing that dream job can be nerve-wracking, especially when facing an interview. Luckily, there are several excellent interview prep books on the market that can help turn those butterflies into confidence. Whether you’re a coding expert or trying to master people skills, the best interview prep books cover many topics for acing that crucial interview. Discover our top picks for the best interview preparation books to set you up for interview success.

Why Is Interview Preparation Crucial?

Interview preparation is crucial because it can significantly increase your chances of landing your dream job. In a competitive job market, employers are looking for candidates who can differentiate themselves and demonstrate that they’re the best fit for the role.

Interview preparation allows you to familiarize yourself with potential questions, practice your responses, and build confidence. It also helps you to learn more about the company and the industry, demonstrating your genuine interest and commitment.

By investing time and effort into interview preparation, you can showcase your skills, experience, and personality in the best light and stand out

Best Interview Prep Books: Reviews

To help you ace your next interview, we’ve compiled a list of the top 12 interview preparation books. These books cover various topics, including soft skills, technical knowledge, and industry-specific advice. Some popular options include “Cracking the Coding Interview,” “Competency-Based Interviews,” and “Interview Like a Boss.”

1. Cracking the coding interview by Gayle laakmann McDowell

To excel in the competitive world of tech, one of the best interview prep books you should get your hands on is “Cracking the Coding Interview” by Gayle Laakmann McDowell. This book is specifically designed for software developer interviews, addressing the most challenging questions you might face. 

Cracking the Coding Interview” has a comprehensive list of 189 programming questions previously asked in real-life interviews at top software companies such as Google, Amazon, and Facebook. The book is written in a friendly, conversational tone, breaking down complex concepts and providing insight into how interviewers evaluate your skills. 

What sets this book apart is its unique focus on the technical and non-technical aspects of the interview process. You will receive a thorough understanding of data structures and algorithms and learn tips on presenting yourself effectively in the interview. 

While the book requires a strong programming foundation, “Cracking the Coding Interview” ensures you’ll be well-prepared for any software developer interview.

By working through the practice problems and following McDowell’s guidance, you’ll develop the ability to solve complex coding issues gracefully under pressure. This will undoubtedly make you stand out and increase your chances of landing your dream job.

2. The complete software developer’s career guide by John sonmez

The Complete Software Developer’s Career Guide” by John Sonmez is another excellent resource for tech industry job seekers. This book comprehensively overviews the software development industry and its various career paths. It’s perfect for people new to the field and experienced professionals looking to advance their careers.

Sonmez covers everything from soft skills, interviewing techniques, negotiation strategies, and creating a personal brand. He provides helpful advice on making a great impression during job interviews and what hiring managers are looking for in candidates. One of the key benefits of this book is its focus on creating a long-term career strategy rather than just preparing for a single job interview.

In addition to offering valuable advice on technical aspects of the software development industry, Sonmez also shares insights into the emotional and psychological challenges developers often face, such as imposter syndrome and dealing with difficult coworkers.

This holistic approach to career development makes “The Complete Software Developer’s Career Guide” stand out from other interview prep books, as it addresses the tech industry’s human side and the technical aspects.

Overall, “The Complete Software Developer’s Career Guide” is a must-read for anyone pursuing a career in software development, regardless of their experience level. This book provides the perfect mix of practical advice, industry insights, and personal anecdotes from Sonmez’s career journey, making it an engaging and beneficial resource for interview preparation.

3. How to win friends and influence people by Dale carnegie

If you want to improve your interpersonal skills and make a lasting impression in interviews, “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie is a must-read. This timeless classic, first published in 1936, has sold over 30 million copies worldwide and continues to help people from all walks of life navigate social situations easily and confidently.

Though it might not be directly tailored to job interviews, this book offers invaluable insights into connecting with others by understanding their motives and perspectives. Carnegie’s advice emphasizes the importance of being genuinely interested in others, using active listening techniques, and ensuring others feel valued and appreciated.

For job interviews, these lessons can be integral in forging a strong rapport with interviewers, thereby increasing your chances of leaving a lasting positive impression. You can communicate more effectively and establish a strong connection by being genuinely interested in the company and the interviewer.

Further, this book addresses handling criticism and feedback, a valuable skill for post-interview follow-ups and maintaining long-term professional relationships. Applying Carnegie’s principles can help you be more agile and adaptable during interviews, especially when faced with unexpected questions or challenges.

In conclusion, although it may not be explicitly career-oriented, “How to Win Friends and Influence People” is an excellent resource for honing your interpersonal skills, often a deciding factor in interview success. Equipped with these skills, you’ll stand out and excel in any interview setting.

4. Knock ’em dead: The ultimate job search guide by Martin yate

Knock ‘Em Dead: The Ultimate Job Search Guide” by Martin Yate is another fantastic resource that’s been a staple for job seekers for over three decades. This book offers valuable guidance on preparing for interviews and conducting an effective job search. The author focuses on delivering a proven and successful strategy to win over interviewers and secure the job you want.

Sometimes, it’s not just the technical skills that matter but also how well you can sell yourself to a potential employer. That’s where Martin Yate’s expertise comes in handy. This guide provides actionable advice on differentiating yourself from other candidates, creating a lasting impression, and adapting your approach based on industry-specific nuances.

One aspect that sets “Knock ‘Em Dead” apart from the other books on this list is its coverage of a wide array of job interview types—from behavioral and stress interviews to panel interviews and telephone screenings. This ensures that you’re well-prepared for any interview situation that comes your way.

Additionally, Martin Yate delves into the challenges faced by specific groups, such as recent graduates and older job seekers, making this book a versatile read for people in various stages of their careers.

There’s something in this book for everyone; it’s beneficial for those who aren’t sure what to expect during the interview process or how to present themselves effectively.

While other books focus primarily on the technical side of interviews, “Knock ‘Em Dead” provides insights into critical soft skills and strategies to help candidates truly stand out. In a world of fierce competition, this book is a practical and valuable tool that can give you the necessary edge.

5. The 2-hour job search by Steve Dalton

The “2-Hour Job Search” by Steve Dalton takes a unique approach to help you prepare for interviews. It focuses on optimizing and streamlining the job hunting process so that you can find relevant job openings and make impactful connections quickly.

Dalton, a career consultant with an MBA from Duke University, introduces a systematic approach to finding job opportunities and landing interviews. His method is designed to save time and reduce stress by prioritizing job opportunities, tapping into your professional network, and contacting employers more effectively.

His book is also filled with job search templates, email samples, and best practices proven to garner results.

“The 2-Hour Job Search” is ideal for those overwhelmed by the seemingly endless options for finding job opportunities or simply looking to make their job search process more efficient. By following Dalton’s steps, you can increase your chances of securing interviews and, ultimately, landing that dream job.

Overall, “The 2-Hour Job Search” is highly recommended as one of the best interview prep books for those who want to streamline their job search and maximize their chances of success. This book can provide you with not only motivation but also actionable steps and techniques to land those coveted interview opportunities.

6. Competency-based interviews by Robin kessler

“Competency-Based Interviews” by Robin Kessler takes a comprehensive approach to acing interviews that evaluate your technical skills and ability to perform well in situations relevant to the job. This book is perfect for interviewees who want to better understand what recruiters are looking for during competency-based interviews and how to prepare for them.

Kessler is an experienced career coach who shares valuable insights into the competency-based interview process. Her book breaks down the concept of competencies in a systematic step-by-step process. It guides you through identifying your unique skills, strengths, and experiences that can be used to showcase your potential in the interview. 

This book covers various aspects of the interview, from developing answers to the most commonly asked questions to demonstrate your capabilities during the interview. It also includes valuable tips on structuring answers using the STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result), allowing you to effectively communicate your competencies.

Competency-based interviews benefit those looking to enhance their performance in behavioral interviews, which focus on assessing your problem-solving, leadership, and teamwork skills. Investing in this book ensures that you will be well-prepared for any competency-based interview and come across as a confident, well-rounded candidate.

7. Case interview secrets by Victor cheng

If you’re aiming for a career in management consulting or just want to hone your problem-solving skills, “Case Interview Secrets” by Victor Cheng is an excellent resource. A former McKinsey management consultant coach, Cheng offers practical advice on successfully tackling case interviews.

Case interviews are a unique type of Interview that management consulting firms often use to assess a candidate’s analytical skills and judgment. They typically involve presenting the candidate with a business problem and asking for a solution.

This book provides clear examples and explanations of the most common types of case interviews and offers a step-by-step approach to solving them.

Cheng shares valuable insider knowledge, drawing from his experiences working for McKinsey and coaching aspiring consultants. Readers will learn practical frameworks, strategies, and techniques to tackle even the most challenging case interview questions. The book also includes several example cases, which help solidify the concepts discussed.

8. 101 great answers to the toughest interview questions by Ron fry

Another great resource in our list of best interview prep books is “101 Great Answers to the Toughest Interview Questions” by Ron Fry. This book has been a popular choice for job seekers for over two decades, and it continues to provide excellent guidance for tackling challenging interview questions.

The book offers practical techniques for framing and delivering meaningful answers in high-pressure situations. Fry addresses various questions encountered during the hiring process, including behavioral, situational, and case study questions and those that target your skills and experience.

The author emphasizes the importance of understanding the interviewer’s motivations behind each question, which can help you craft an appropriate response. This book also provides practical advice on handling tricky questions, such as gaps in employment, reasons for leaving a past job, or discussing salary expectations.

One of the unique features of “101 Great Answers to the Toughest Interview Questions” is that it includes numerous examples of good and bad answers and explanations for why those examples are successful or unsuccessful.

By understanding what works and what doesn’t, you’ll be better equipped to build effective responses during your next job interview.

This book is a comprehensive and insightful resource that can help you develop your interview skills and increase your confidence in any interview scenario. Add it to your interview prep arsenal to ensure you are well-prepared for even the most challenging questions.

9. Interview like a boss by Hans Van nas

If you’re looking for an interview preparation book that offers an easy-to-follow method to handle job interviews effectively, “Interview Like a Boss” by Hans Van Nas is an excellent choice. This book covers various aspects of interview preparation, from identifying your value proposition and crafting a compelling story about yourself to answering difficult questions and leaving a lasting impression.

Van Nas’ method is engaging and informative, with real-life examples to help illustrate essential points. The author shares his experiences and research, giving readers valuable insights into how interviewers think and make decisions.

One of the key takeaways from “Interview Like a Boss” is the importance of preparation and understanding that interviews are not just about showcasing your skills and experience—they are about building a connection with the interviewer.

By focusing on the importance of communication, rapport, and emotional intelligence in interviews, Van Nas equips readers with the tools they need to stand out in a crowd of candidates with similar qualifications.

As a result, “Interview Like a Boss” is among the best interview prep books for those who want to approach the interview process with a comprehensive strategy, leaving no stone unturned in their quest for a successful outcome.

10. Get that job! The quick and complete guide to a winning interview by Thea Kelley

“Get That Job! The Quick and Complete Guide to a Winning Interview” by Thea Kelley promises to provide you with essential tools and tips to land your dream job. The author, a career coach and experienced interview coach shares her expertise in this easy-to-read and engaging guide.

This book covers common interview questions and shows how to answer them effectively. It also addresses how to prepare for various interview formats, such as behavioral, group, and phone interviews, and dives into the specifics of different industries and job levels. This book has helpful tips for everyone, no matter your experience level or the field you’re looking to enter.

One aspect that makes this book stand out is its focus on the emotional and mental preparation needed for a successful interview. Interview jitters are expected, and Kelley’s advice on calming nerves and building confidence can make all the difference in the interview room.

Finally, “Get That Job!” includes a bonus section on post-interview activities like thank-you notes and how to handle the all-important follow-up. The comprehensive approach of this book can help you nail every step of the hiring process and get that job you’ve been striving for.

11. What color is your parachute? By Richard n. Bolles

“What Color Is Your Parachute?” by Richard N. Bolles is a job search and career development classic. This comprehensive guide offers a unique perspective on discovering your passions, strengths, and potential career paths through various self-assessment tools.

Although the book is not explicitly focused on interview preparation, its content will help you gain a deep understanding of yourself and your career goals, enabling you to tailor your responses and excel during interviews.

This resource gives you the foundation to present your best self to potential employers by addressing the importance of understanding oneself.

12. The Google resume: How to prepare for a career and land a job at Apple, Microsoft, Google, or any top tech company by Gayle laakmann McDowell

If you’re aiming to land a job at a top tech company like Apple, Microsoft, Google, or any other industry leader, then “The Google Resume: How to Prepare for a Career and Land a Job at Apple, Microsoft, Google, or any Top Tech Company” is a must-read for you.

In this insightful book, McDowell gives you an insider’s perspective on what it takes to succeed in the highly competitive tech world. It includes tips on crafting the perfect resume, acing phone screenings and interviews, and navigating the challenging hiring process.

With this book in your arsenal, you’ll feel well-prepared and confident about landing that dream job in tech.

Conclusion

In conclusion, reading the best interview prep books can significantly increase your chances of acing job interviews and landing your dream role. The recommended books in this list offer diverse strategies and insights to help you stand out and confidently tackle any interview scenario.

Start preparing now to ensure you’re on the path to success.

Now that you have these twelve incredible resources at your fingertips, there’s no excuse not to be prepared for your next interview. Good luck!