23+ Interview Tips: Proven Ways to Impress Hiring Managers

Interview tips can help you prepare effectively and improve the way you present yourself to hiring managers. However, many candidates still struggle with nerves, unclear answers, or failing to stand out. Start by researching the company, learning about the interviewer, and practicing common interview questions, so you can answer with confidence.

A strong interview performance is a skill you can learn. In this guide, we cover 20+ practical interview tips. Whether you are just starting out or aiming for a more senior role, you will learn how to communicate your value clearly and make a lasting impression!

What to Do Before the Interview: 10 Proven Interview Tips

Preparation is the key to success, so let’s see some interview tips you should keep in mind before the interview to maximize your chances of leaving a good impression.

#1. Research the Company in Depth

When you research a company for an interview, you can obtain invaluable information about its products or services, team, mission, values, goals, and more. These insights allow you to respond with answers that align with the company’s needs.

To do research, you can check out the company’s website, social media pages, LinkedIn profiles of its employees, and more. You can also look up recent publications, industry reports, or news articles to find out fresh information.

You can highlight the skills and experiences needed by the company that are relevant to the role. Moreover, you can tailor your answers to show that you’re a good cultural fit for the company.

Another benefit of displaying in-depth knowledge of the company during the interview is to demonstrate dedication and engagement. You’ll show that you’re truly invested in their work and ready to hit the ground running.

#2. Review the Job Description Carefully

Go through the job description line by line and make note of specific keywords and phrases you can use during the interview to demonstrate your understanding and show that your experience aligns with the role.

For example, if the description emphasizes “project management” and “cross-functional collaboration,” mention past projects where you led teams and coordinated across departments. Using these keywords strategically increases your chances of standing out as a well-qualified candidate.

#3. Learn About the Interviewers

In addition to learning about the company, you also want to find out more about your job interviewers. Understanding who you will be talking to during the meeting can give you an advantage.

You can connect with your interviewer better if you know their background, role, expertise, interests, and other aspects, you’ll be able to connect with them better. Grasping these will also help you understand their perspective and anticipate what they are looking for in candidates.

Even something as simple as addressing the interviewer by their name at the start helps. You build rapport from the get-go and set yourself apart as attentive and prepared. When you reference some of their work, you showcase interest and effort.

#4. Practice Answers in Advance

Practicing answers in advance is crucial to ensuring you’re on top of your game during the actual interview. Even if you know what to say to some of the most common interview questions, you should still take the time to practice giving answers, whether by yourself or with someone else.

You can record yourself talking, prepare in front of a mirror, or set up a mock interview with a friend, mentor, or colleague. This will allow you to spot areas for improvement, whether it’s about improving your delivery or memorizing important details.

For instance, you can practice using the STAR method to answer behavioral interview questions. This structured approach can help you convey as much information as concisely as possible without rambling or missing out on some important details.

#5. Prepare a Set of Questions for the Interviewers

One of the typical questions interviewers ask candidates toward the end of the meeting is, “Do you have any questions for us?” It’s vital to have several of them prepared for this occasion, as it demonstrates your genuine interest in the company and the job that you’re applying for.

Even if hiring managers don’t explicitly ask you this question, you can still inquire about their company and its culture, the team, their products or services, any notable challenges they have faced, and more.

When you ask the questions, be sure that the answers aren’t readily available on the company’s website or social media profiles. You want to get deeper insights about the organization to figure out whether they are a good fit for you and simultaneously show that you already know a lot about them.

#6. Know Your Salary

You should go to an interview with salary expectations set in advance. Researching the industry and the role that you are after lets you determine the median salary for someone with your level of skill and experience. Then, you can better negotiate your salary.

Typically, you want to give hiring managers a range and keep the discussion open. This shows flexibility and ensures negotiations don’t end if your request is outside the budget they have prepared for the role.

On the flip side, knowing the salary range saves you from accepting less than you deserve. You will be better prepared to ask for the salary and benefits that match the value you can bring to the company.

#7. Plan an Appropriate Outfit

Having an appropriate outfit is vital for creating a good first impression. Knowing what to wear to an interview shows that you understand the industry and helps you present yourself in a professional manner.

Many companies have a dress code that you should adhere to. For corporate environments, you’ll likely want to wear more formal outfits, such as suits, blazers, and pencil skirts. Conversely, creative industries might have casual dress codes, allowing for trousers, button-down shirts, blouses, and even sports jackets and jeans.

Following a dress code shows that you respect the organization and understand its culture. It will also make you feel more comfortable, helping you focus on giving optimal answers to interview questions. An appropriate outfit can even help alleviate interview anxiety, as you won’t feel fidgety and uneasy.

#8. Plan What You Will Bring to an Interview

Bring a few essential items to an interview, starting with multiple copies of your resume. Keep one for yourself as a reference and provide extra copies if there is more than one interviewer. Use high-quality paper to maintain a professional appearance.

You should also bring a notebook and a pen to write down key points from the interview, which you’ll need for future meetings and follow-up emails. Finally, you can bring a list of references if you haven’t submitted it already.

All of this should be neatly packed in an organized folder or briefcase. Avoid bringing large bags that can clutter up the space.

#9. Review Your Resume

Carefully go through the document before the interview to ensure you remember every detail about your skills, experience, and education. This way, you can answer confidently and maintain consistency between your responses and the information on your resume, reinforcing your credibility.

Interviewers often base questions on what they see, from your experience and skills to any gaps or unique achievements. By reviewing it carefully, you can also anticipate the areas they are likely to focus on and prepare better answers. 

#10. Conduct a Mock Interview

Having a mock interview as a rehearsal before the main event is one of the best ways to prepare. You can have a mock interview with anyone, from your friends and family members to colleagues and mentors.

To get the most out of your mock interview, you should approach it as if it were the real one. That includes everything from putting on your interview outfit to giving answers with the same gravity and professionalism as if you were in front of a hiring manager.

This way, you can figure out whether there’s something you need to change or improve. You can assess areas such as:

5 Interview Tips to Keep in Mind During the Interview

Now that we’ve given you the key interview tips to help you prepare for the meeting, let’s see what you should keep in mind during it.

#1. Be Mindful of Your Body Language

Body language plays a significant role during a job interview, as it’s one of the most important aspects of non-verbal communication.The way you carry yourself should convey confidence and professionalism. This includes giving a firm handshake, maintaining eye contact with the interviewer, staying calm and composed, and so on.

You can show that you’re actively listening to the hiring manager through body language. Simply smiling and nodding when appropriate demonstrates that you’re engaged in the conversation and paying close attention to the other party. Conversely, fidgeting, crossing your arms, or looking away frequently can be interpreted as signs of nervousness or even disinterest.

#2. Show Enthusiasm but Remain Balanced

Genuine enthusiasm is a powerful indicator of a dedicated professional. Hiring managers and employers always look for candidates who are driven and passionate about their jobs, as they are likely to be efficient and deliver high-quality work.

However, you don’t want to overdo it and demonstrate excitement to the point of over-exaggeration. An overly enthusiastic approach can be interpreted as unprofessional, desperate, disingenuous, and overall off-putting.

Instead, you want to maintain a calm demeanor while still displaying keen interest through your questions, answers, and body language. For example, you can talk about specific aspects of the job, the company and its culture, the potential for your career’s progress within the organization, and more.

#3. Prepare for Small Talk

Small talk is vital in interpersonal interactions. It can be a crucial first step in developing long-term relationships in a business environment. Small talk at the beginning of an interview can establish a friendly and positive tone, connect you with the interviewer on a more personal level, and help ease the tension.

Remember to keep the conversation light and avoid any controversial topics. You can talk about some recent news relevant to the industry, shared interests, or even the weather. A brief small talk can help you appear more friendly and approachable. Plus, it’s a strong indicator of verbal communication skills, which are highly valuable in most workplaces.

#4. Be Authentic

Authenticity is another quality that can help you genuinely connect with the interviewer. Being honest and straightforward about your skills, experiences, drive, and motivation builds trust and demonstrates dependability which is a competitive advantage.

If you’re adjusting your answers too much to give interviewers what they want to hear, you might end up creating a false image. This can lead to inconsistencies in your answers, which can have a negative impact on your chances of reaching further stages of the interview process.

By giving honest answers and sharing authentic examples from your professional history, you can present your case in a more relatable and impressive manner. Ultimately, transparency from both parties can help figure out whether you’re a good mutual fit.

#5. Be Concise and Relevant

Conciseness and relevance are crucial in giving the best possible answers to interview questions. You want to give interviewers all the relevant information without meandering or going too far away from the main point.

For instance, the STAR method we mentioned previously offers a methodical framework: first, describe the situation, then follow up with your tasks, actions, and, finally, results. While you can’t use this method to answer questions like “Tell me about yourself,” this interview tip helps you stay on track and not weaken your answer with irrelevant details.

Conversely, responding clearly and succinctly demonstrates strong communication skills and shows respect for the interviewer’s time.

5 Video Interview Tips and Tricks

Video interviews are now standard, but they bring unique challenges compared to in-person meetings. A strong performance depends not just on what you say, but how you present yourself on camera. Follow these five interview tips to leave a professional impression.

#1. Test Your Technology

Check your Internet before the interview. A stable connection prevents freezes or dropped calls that disrupt your flow and make you seem unprepared. Make sure the platform that you are using works smoothly and that you know how to join the call. 

It is also worth running a short test with a friend or family member to confirm that your camera angle shows your face clearly and that the microphone picks up your voice without distortion. Sometimes, headphones or earbuds can cause echo or reduce audio quality, so test them in advance too.

You should close unnecessary apps or browser tabs that might slow your device or trigger notifications during the interview. If possible, have a backup device ready, like a phone or tablet, just in case your primary setup fails.

#2. Choose a Clean, Professional Background

Your surroundings set the tone for the interview. A clean, neutral background ensures that nothing distracts the interviewer and keeps attention on your face and what you are saying. Avoid clutter, personal items, posters, or anything that might appear unprofessional on camera.

You should also consider your lighting carefully. Sit facing a window for natural light, or place a soft lamp in front of you, so your face is well-lit. It is important to avoid backlighting, as it can cast shadows and make it hard to see you. Also, position the camera at eye level to not look down or up, which can appear less confident.

#3. Dress Like It’s In-Person

Even though you are interviewing virtually, dressing professionally shows that you take the opportunity seriously and respect the interviewer’s time. Choose attire that matches the company’s culture and stick to solid colors or subtle patterns that display well on camera.

Don’t forget to iron your shirt, ensure your hair is neat, and avoid jewelry that can catch the light or make noise. A well-put-together outfit also helps you feel confident and focused, which naturally comes across in your posture, tone, and overall presence.

#4. Mind Your Camera Presence

Focus on looking at the camera when speaking, not at your own video feed. It may feel strange, but this creates the illusion of eye contact with the interviewer and keeps them connected to you. Glancing away frequently or checking yourself in the small preview box can make you seem distracted or insecure.

You should also keep your movements minimal and deliberate. Large gestures or shifting constantly in your chair are more noticeable on video than in person. So an interview tip is to use subtle nods or smiles to signal engagement, and pause slightly before responding to account for any small lag in the video feed.

#5. Prepare Your Space and Notes

Choose a quiet, well-lit space where you won’t be interrupted and inform anyone at home of your interview time. Even if you are using a virtual background, a clean, uncluttered setting helps you stay focused and professional.

It is also necessary to organize any materials you might need in advance. For example, you can keep a notebook and pen nearby, but out of the camera’s view. If you plan to reference notes, arrange them so you can glance at them without breaking eye contact with the camera. Sticky notes or a digital document off to the side of your screen can work well.

5 Interview Tips for Career Changers

Switching careers can feel daunting, but preparation and strategy make a huge difference. Here are five interview tips to follow when you are transitioning into a new field.

#1. Highlight Transferable Skills

Even if your previous role isn’t in the same industry, there are many transferable skills. Identify abilities like project management, communication, problem-solving, or leadership that are relevant to the new role. Instead of just listing them, show how you have applied these skills in concrete situations.

For example, managing a team in your previous field demonstrates leadership, even if the tasks were different. Solving client issues or coordinating projects shows problem-solving and adaptability, which are qualities every employer values. 

#2. Address the Career Change Upfront

Hiring managers will notice a career change, so it is better to address it early in the interview. Be clear, concise, and positive about why you are switching fields. Focus on your enthusiasm for the new industry, your proactive learning, and how your background adds unique value.

Instead of apologizing for a lack of direct experience, you should explain how your previous role prepared you to excel in the new position. Highlight skills, perspectives, or projects on LinkedIn that give you an edge, and show that you have thought carefully about this move. Framing your career change confidently demonstrates self-awareness, motivation, and adaptability. 

#3. Show That You Have Filled Knowledge Gaps

When changing careers, hiring managers may worry about your familiarity with the new field. Address this by mentioning any certifications, online courses, workshops, or hands-on projects you have completed that directly relate to the role.

For example, if you are moving into digital marketing, highlight completing courses in SEO, social media management, or analytics tools. You can also showcase personal projects, freelance work, or volunteering experiences that demonstrate the practical application of these skills. 

#4. Anticipate and Practice Common Career-Change Questions

Career changers often face specific questions like, “Why are you switching fields?”, “How will your experience translate?”, or “What makes you qualified despite less direct experience?”. Preparing answers to these in advance helps you respond confidently and concisely.

Similar to the general interview tips above, practice with a friend, mentor, or even on camera, so your delivery is smooth. By anticipating these questions, you can avoid rambling and turn potential concerns into strengths during your interview.

#5. Emphasize Your Learning Agility

Career changers can stand out by showing they can quickly learn and adapt to new environments. During interviews, give examples of times you picked up new skills, adapted to unfamiliar tasks, or successfully transitioned responsibilities in past roles.

Your answers should show that you are not only willing but also capable of handling the challenges of a new industry. Demonstrating learning agility reassures hiring managers that you can ramp up quickly, contribute effectively, and thrive even without years of direct experience.

What to Do After an Interview: 3 Useful Interview Tips to Follow

Here are some interview tips and tricks on what you should do after the meeting to maximize your chances of success.

#1. Send a Thank You Email

Sending a thank-you email after the interview is a great way to stay on top of the hiring manager’s mind. You should send the email within 24 hours after the meeting. That way, you’ll make your performance more memorable. While the email should be brief, you can use it to do more than just thank the interviewer. For an even bigger impact and display of enthusiasm, you can mention a specific topic from your discussion that you found genuinely interesting.

Finally, you can include a call to action at the end, suggesting that you’re excited for your next interview or the next stage in the hiring process and looking forward to their call.

That said, here’s a thank you email template you can use:

#2. Follow Up

If you haven’t heard back from the hiring manager within the timeframe they gave you, you should send a follow-up email to check your status and restate your enthusiasm. This email should be brief and polite, professionally asking whether there are any updates regarding your job interview.

The key here is to strike a balance between being respectful of the hiring manager’s time and expressing your ongoing interest in the role. By doing that, you’ll get back on their radar and likely increase your chances of getting a response.

Moreover, you can send several follow-up emails. You can send one within the first week and the second the following week to try to get an answer. Of course, if you haven’t heard from them for more than a month, it’s likely time to move on.

Here is a follow-up email template that you can use:

#3. Don’t Stop Sending Job Applications

Even if you feel that your job interview was a success, you shouldn’t stop sending job applications to other companies. Hiring processes are unpredictable, and you can never be certain of an outcome. It’s not uncommon for job seekers to have interviews with multiple companies before finally landing the role that they are after.

Not only that, but you may end up receiving several offers, which you can then use as leverage to increase your chances or negotiate a better salary and benefits. Plus, it’s easier to stay focused and motivated when you’re working on finding your next job instead of waiting for a response, sometimes for weeks.

Ultimately, if you get rejected in the end, it’s much easier to handle it with grace when you know you have other options. You can thank the hiring manager one last time and suggest they keep you in mind should there be another opening fit for your skills and qualifications in the future. This is one of the most underrated interview tips!

Final Thoughts

Preparing for a job interview can feel daunting, but every step you take matters. Approach each conversation with these interview tips in mind, and remember that learning comes from every experience, not just the outcome. 

Small improvements add up, and your confidence grows each time you try. Keep showing up and trust yourself. With patience and practice, you will handle interviews with ease and make a lasting impression.

Interview Tips FAQs

#1. What is the 30 60 90 rule in an interview? 

The 30-60-90 rule in an interview is a way to outline your plan for the first 30, 60, and 90 days on the job. Sharing this plan shows hiring managers you can set goals, prioritize tasks, and integrate into a new role quickly.

#2. How do I introduce myself in an interview?

To introduce yourself in an interview, start with your current role or background, highlight key achievements, and briefly connect your skills to the position. Keep your introduction concise, confident, and focused on what matters most to the hiring manager.

#3. What is a red flag in an interview?

A red flag in an interview is a warning sign that may indicate a poor fit between the candidate and the company. Examples include vague answers, negativity about past employers, lack of preparation, or inconsistent communication. 

#4. What to do 15 minutes before a big interview?

Fifteen minutes before a big interview is the perfect time to review key points, take deep breaths, and get mentally focused. You should check your notes, STAR examples, and your appearance, per the interview tips above. For video calls, ensure your technology is ready.