By Noah Williams 
Do Your Research Before the Interview
One of the best ways to stand out in an interview is to show that you’ve done your homework. Take some time to learn about the company—what they do, their values, recent news, or any big projects. This shows the interviewer that you’re genuinely interested and not just applying everywhere.
It doesn’t take long—just visit their website, glance at their social media, or read a few articles. When you mention something specific about the company during your interview, it proves you’re thoughtful and prepared. That little extra effort can leave a big impression.
Dress for the Role You Want
First impressions count, and what you wear to an interview matters. You don’t always need to wear a full suit, but you should look clean, professional, and put together. The goal is to show respect for the opportunity and the people interviewing you.
If you’re unsure about the dress code, it’s okay to ask or check out the company’s culture online. When in doubt, aim slightly more formal than casual. Feeling confident in your outfit can also boost your mindset going in—when you look good, you feel good.
Practice Your Answers Ahead of Time
You don’t want to sound like a robot, but rehearsing common interview questions can really help. Think about how you’ll answer questions like “Tell me about yourself” or “What’s your biggest strength?” Practicing makes your responses smoother and more natural when you’re under pressure.
Try saying your answers out loud, or ask a friend to do a mock interview with you. It helps reduce nerves and gets your thoughts organized. The better prepared you are, the more confident you’ll feel walking into the room—or joining that video call.
Highlight Your Strengths with Examples
It’s one thing to say you’re hardworking, but it’s way more powerful to show it through a real-life example. Employers want to hear stories that prove your skills. Talk about times you solved a problem, led a project, or overcame a challenge.
Keep your stories short and relevant to the job you’re applying for. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to keep your answer focused and clear. A strong example sticks in the interviewer’s mind and helps them see how you’d add value to their team.
Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of most interviews, you’ll get the chance to ask questions. Don’t pass it up! This is your opportunity to show you’re interested and thinking ahead. Ask about the team, company culture, or what success looks like in the role.
Avoid asking about salary or time off right away—save that for later rounds. Instead, show curiosity about the job and how you can grow within the company. It also helps you figure out if the job is truly the right fit for you.
Mind Your Body Language
Sometimes how you say something is just as important as what you say. Make eye contact, sit up straight, and try not to fidget too much. A firm handshake (or a friendly wave on video) also helps set a confident tone.
Smiling, nodding, and showing interest in the conversation make a big difference. Even over Zoom, good posture and facial expressions can help you connect. Positive body language makes you appear more approachable and engaged, which employers love.
Be Honest and Authentic
You don’t need to have a perfect answer for everything. It’s better to be honest than to pretend you know something you don’t. If you’re asked about a skill you’re still learning, it’s okay to say so—just add that you’re eager to grow and improve.
Interviewers can usually tell when someone is faking it. Being yourself and answering sincerely helps build trust. Employers aren’t just looking for skills—they want someone who will fit in with the team and bring real value. Authenticity goes a long way.
Follow Up After the Interview
A quick thank-you note after the interview shows appreciation and keeps you on the employer’s radar. You can send a short email thanking them for their time and mentioning something you enjoyed about the conversation. It’s a small gesture, but it makes a big impression.
Keep it brief and professional, and don’t be afraid to express your enthusiasm for the role. If you promised to send additional info or materials, be sure to follow through. A thoughtful follow-up can sometimes be the thing that sets you apart from other candidates.
Stay Positive and Keep Practicing
Not every interview will lead to a job, and that’s okay. It’s all part of the process. Even if you don’t get the offer, every interview helps you get better at presenting yourself and understanding what employers are looking for.
Stay positive and keep learning from each experience. Ask for feedback if possible, and use it to improve next time. The right opportunity will come your way—just keep showing up, doing your best, and staying true to yourself.