• Appearance and Manner

    The importance of a professional appearance and communication skills cannot be overstated.

    • Always dress professionally, even if the interviewer or recruiter suggests it is OK to dress casually. Wear up-to-date business attire in neutral colors and be conservative in your use of fragrance, cosmetics and jewelry.
    • For virtual interviews, ensure your environment is clear from distractions and has clean, clear lighting.
    • Shake hands firmly and address the interviewer by their first name throughout the interview.
    • Practice your posture and delivery until you have developed a comfortable style. Generally speaking, posture should be straight and slightly forward, hands in front and lightly on the desk, direct eye contact with keen interest.
    • Remember to smile throughout the interview. Rapport and likability are half the battle.
  • Pre-Interview Preparation

    No matter where you’re interviewing, it is crucial to properly prepare.

    • Plan to arrive 20 minutes earlier than the scheduled interview time.
    • Rehearse answers for common interview questions asked by employers and always prepare questions to ask.
    • Know the company’s facts and figures, products, markets, competitors and recent news.
    • Know the position you are applying for. One of the most common questions candidates fail to answer appropriately is “What do you know about us?”
    • For virtual interviews, ensure your internet connection is stable and your audio and camera are functioning properly the day before your interview.
  • During the Interview

    Most interviews are approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour long. To make a lasting impression, it is important to make sure you use this time effectively.

    • It’s vital that both parties exchange information. Allow conversation to flow naturally and keep the balance even.
    • Give concise but thorough responses to questions, and ask for a moment to think about your responses when necessary. A well thought out answer is always better than a rushed one.
    • Ask your recruiter for inside information such as the hot buttons associated with this position, the background of the people you will meet, the key needs of the company, and the reason the position is open.
    • Always speak positively about previous employers, jobs, colleagues and customers.
  • Closing the Interview and Follow Up

    How you conclude the interview is just as important as the first impression.

    • Make sure to express interest in the position and thank the interviewer for the opportunity to meet.
    • A follow up email with your feedback and gratitude is common etiquette. Remember to ask the hiring manager for a business card or contact information before leaving.


    Finally, remember to call your recruiter immediately after the interview. Your attitude throughout the interview process is often relayed from the recruiter to the client company. It also keeps you in favor with the recruiter for future positions if this one doesn’t work out.