Top 7 Interview Tips to Help You Leave a Great Impression

November 25, 2020

Do you have an interview coming up? If so, let’s make sure you leave an impression! We all understand how nerve-wracking this process can be, so our team compiled a list of tips and tricks just for you! These interview tips are sure to turn your work opportunities into offers!

Check out these Top 7 Interview Tips to help you ace that interview!

1. Tailor your Resume & Cover Letter

When a recruiter or hiring manager is reviewing your resume, they’re scanning for the best possible match for the available role. Tailor your resume to highlight experience applicable to the role you’re applying for to immediately stand out. Steer clear of generic cover letters. Don’t make someone dig to get to the good part, lead with your best foot forward!

2. Do Your Research

When a candidate comes in already armed with knowledge and questions about the company, it always leaves a great impression. It shows the interviewer that the candidate has prepared and is taking the opportunity seriously. It also shows that the candidate is interested and truly cares about the company and position.

3. If Something has Changed, Be Honest

Sometimes things can change, that’s just a part of life. If your interest in the role has changed or something comes up that will affect your attendance, reach out and let your interviewer know. A lot of time and effort goes into the hiring process for recruiters and hiring managers, and people will remember if you did not show up for an interview without notice. Taking the time to let the company know that you are no longer interested or that there was an emergency is a great way to move on/ continue without burning a bridge.

4. Dress to Impress!

No matter if you are interviewing for an entry-level position or a management role, your appearance is the first thing your interviewer notices. Dressing well for an interview shows that your interest in the position is serious and ups your chances of being hired! When one conducts an interview, along with assessing the conversation and experience of a candidate, they are looking for someone who is going to be a great representative for their company. A candidate that arrives unkempt to an interview gives a bad impression initially and immediately reduces their chance of being hired.

5. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions

Everyone loves it when candidates ask questions about their company culture as well as specifics about the role for which they are interviewing. The interviewer enjoys the chance to talk about the company and get a candidate excited about working with them. Asking role-specific questions also shows that a candidate knows what position they are applying for and is taking the time to make an informed decision in the event they are offered the position.

6. Stay Focused and Visibly Engaged

During your interview, it is very important that you stay engaged in conversation with the interviewer(s). The more focused and engaged you are during the process makes for a smooth interview as well as shows how important the job is to you. You want to leave the impression that you care and are excited about the opportunity. No one wants to hire someone who seems uninterested!

7. Thank Interviewer(s) in Person and By Email

As you have probably noticed, politeness, kindness, and engagement go a long way in the interview process. Why not end it that way too? We suggest to always thank your interviewer(s) for their time and consideration after the fact to show your appreciation. It takes a lot of time and planning for hiring managers, so they will appreciate the thought and consideration. Always thank each person after the interview is complete and then make sure to send a follow-up “thank you” email as well. Bonus points if you remember their names as well as touch on something discussed within the interview! This not only shows how excited you are for the opportunity but also keeps your name front and center.