Interview Do's and Don'ts: A Complete Guide for Job Seekers

Cracking an interview requires more than just the right qualifications. How you prepare, present yourself, and follow up can make all the difference. Here's a comprehensive list of interview do's and don'ts to help you succeed at every stage of the interview process.

Before the Interview

Do's:

• Print extra resumes.
• Research the company.
• Plan your outfit a day early.
• Sleep well the night before.
• Practice common questions.
• Prepare your own questions.
• Check the interview location.

Don'ts:

• Skip company research.
• Arrive without questions.
• Forget to check your tech.
• Ignore the job description.
• Wing it without preparation.
• Choose flashy, loud clothing.
• Stay up late before interview.

During the Interview

Do's:

• Show enthusiasm.
• Use the STAR method.
• Give a firm handshake.
• Ask thoughtful questions.
• Listen carefully to questions.
• Smile and make eye contact.

Don'ts:

• Be late (ever!).
• Check your phone.
• Lie about experience.
• Interrupt the interviewer.
• Use slang or curse words.
• Ask about salary right away.
• Badmouth former employers.

Body Language

Do's:

• Sit up straight.
• Smile naturally.
• Keep hands visible.
• Lean slightly forward.
• Mirror interviewer's energy.
• Maintain good eye contact.
• Nod to show you're listening.

Don'ts:

• Fidget or tap.
• Check the time.
• Cross your arms.
• Avoid eye contact.
• Slouch in your chair.
• Play with your hair/face.
• Use closed body language.

After the Interview

Do's:

• Send within 2 hours.
• Connect on LinkedIn.
• Mention specific topics.
• Send a thank-you email.
• Express continued interest.
• Follow up once after a week.
• Reflect on your performance.

Don'ts:

• Call repeatedly.
• Stop your job search.
• Skip the thank you note.
• Forget to request feedback.
• Feel discouraged if rejected.
• Pester with daily follow-ups.
• Post about it on social media.

Answering Tough Questions

Do's:

• Use the STAR method.
• Take a pause if needed.
• Turn negatives into positives.
• Be honest about weaknesses.
• Focus on growth and learning.

Don'ts:

• Lie or exaggerate.
• Use fake weaknesses.
• Ramble without a point.
• Give memorized answers.
• Criticize previous employers.

Virtual Interviews

Do's:

• Find a quiet location.
• Use a neutral background.
• Test your technology early.
• Dress professionally (all over).
• Look at the camera, not screen.

Don'ts:

• Have poor lighting.
• Let pets/family interrupt.
• Forget to mute when needed.
• Have distracting backgrounds.
• Use an unprofessional username.

Mastering the art of the interview takes time and preparation. Follow these tips to make a positive, lasting impression and increase your chances of landing the job.