Landing a job interview can feel like winning a prize. It’s a signal that your application stood out and that the employer wants to learn more. But interviews can also feel overwhelming—what should you say, how should you act, and what should you do afterward to keep the momentum going?
The truth is interviewing is a skill. Like any skill, it improves with practice and preparation. Whether it’s a phone screen, video call, or in-person meeting, the same principle applies: every step counts. By approaching your interviews with a clear plan before, during, and after, you increase your chances of leaving a lasting impression.
In this article:
- Before the Interview: Laying the Foundation
- During the Interview: Making Your Case
- After the Interview: Following Through
Before the Interview: Laying the Foundation
Preparation starts long before you shake hands or log into Zoom. Employers notice when candidates show up prepared and engaged, and this stage is where you can set yourself apart.
Do Your Research
One of the most common mistakes candidates make is failing to understand the company or the role. Always review the job posting, the company’s website, and recent press releases. Find out what the organization does, how it’s performing, and what its culture emphasizes. If possible, learn about the people interviewing you through LinkedIn. Commonalities like a shared alma mater or professional interest can be great conversation starters.
When you’ve done your research, you can ask more meaningful questions and tailor your answers to what matters most to the employer.
Know Yourself
It may sound obvious, but you should be able to confidently discuss your own career history. Have a copy of your résumé handy for phone interviews and be sure you’re familiar with what’s on it. Think through the highlights: accomplishments you’re proud of, challenges you’ve overcome, and skills you’ve built. Prepare short, clear examples that connect your past performance to the needs of the job.
Practice Your Storytelling and Common Questions
Storytelling is one of the most effective ways to make your answers memorable. Behavioral interview questions often begin with “Tell me about a time…” Employers ask these questions to understand how you acted in past situations, because past behavior often predicts future performance.
When crafting stories, follow a simple structure:
- Setting – Where were you working and what was the situation?
- Characters – Who else was involved?
- Conflict – What challenge did you face?
- Conclusion – How did you resolve it and what did you learn?
Perhaps the most dreaded interview question is: “Tell me about yourself.” Think of this as your elevator pitch. Keep it high-level, 30–60 seconds long, focusing on who you are, what drives you, and what you bring to the table. Practice it until it flows naturally.
Other common questions include:
- “Why do you want this role?”
- “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”
- “Tell me about a time you made a mistake and how you handled it.”
Practice telling stories about moments when you solved problems, improved processes, handled conflict, or showed initiative. Keep them positive and concise without sounding robotic. Be honest, positive, and forward-looking.
Get Logistical Details Right
Don’t overlook practical details. For in-person interviews, confirm the location, plan your route, and allow extra time to arrive early. For phone or video interviews, test your technology and internet connection, and find a quiet, distraction-free space.
Boost Your Confidence
Confidence can be the difference between stumbling and shining. Simple tricks can help, such as Amy Cuddy’s “power pose” technique—standing tall for a minute or two to mentally prepare yourself. Rest well the night before, eat a good meal, and take deep breaths before the interview begins.
During the Interview: Making Your Case
The big day has arrived. Whether you’re speaking by phone, on camera, or face-to-face, remember that your goal is twofold: to show you’re the right fit for the job, and to evaluate if the job is the right fit for you.
Start Strong
First impressions matter. Dress appropriately, greet your interviewer with a smile, and—if in person—offer a confident handshake. In video interviews, look at the camera to simulate eye contact. In phone interviews, let your enthusiasm shine through your voice.
Stay Focused and Professional
Keep distractions to a minimum. Don’t answer a call while running errands or juggling responsibilities. Interviewers can hear background noise and may question your seriousness.
When speaking, be concise. Share the highlights of your experience and avoid rambling. Interviewers often have limited time and want to hear why you’re qualified, not every detail of your work history.
Use Confident Body Language
Your posture, gestures, and facial expressions send powerful signals. Maintain good eye contact, smile, and limit fidgeting. Small adjustments like keeping your hands folded in your lap or checking your posture can help you appear calm and engaged.
Be Ready for Curveballs
Some organizations throw in unusual questions or even activities to see how you react under pressure. If this happens, stay composed, laugh it off if appropriate, and show humility. Demonstrating adaptability can impress an employer even more than nailing the “right” answer.
Ask Smart Questions
Interviews are a two-way street. Show genuine interest by asking thoughtful questions that go beyond benefits or culture. For example:
- What are the top priorities for this role in the first six months?
- What challenges has this team faced recently?
- What does a typical day look like for someone in this position?
These kinds of questions help you understand whether the job aligns with your goals while also showing that you’re serious about contributing.
Express Enthusiasm
Employers want candidates who want them. Don’t be afraid to say you’re excited about the role. Be specific about why you’re a good fit, connecting your skills to their needs. A simple statement like, “I’m really excited about this opportunity, and I think my background in [X] would help me contribute to [Y],” goes a long way.
After the Interview: Following Through
Many candidates think their work ends when they walk out the door or log off the call. In reality, what you do afterward can be just as important.
Say Thank You
Gratitude never goes out of style. While email is the most efficient, a handwritten note can add a personal touch if you want to stand out. Whichever you chose, send or post a thank-you within 24 hours. Be specific—mention topics from the interview and connect them to your skills. For example: “I appreciated learning about your plans to expand into new markets, and I’m confident my experience in international sales could support that growth.”
Follow Up Professionally
If you haven’t heard back within the timeframe given, follow up. A good rule of thumb is to wait a week. Keep your message polite and professional, reiterating your interest without sounding pushy.
Be Patient
Waiting is often the hardest part. Hiring processes can take time, especially if the company is balancing other priorities. Use the waiting period to keep your job search active. Don’t assume you’ve landed the job until you have an offer in hand.
Reflect and Improve
Every interview is practice. After each one, take a few minutes to reflect: What went well? What questions stumped you? What could you do differently next time? This self-awareness will make you stronger in future interviews.
Don’t Burn Bridges
If you decide the role isn’t right for you, communicate that respectfully and promptly. Declining politely maintains your reputation and keeps doors open for the future.
Interviews can feel stressful, but with preparation and practice, they become manageable—and even exciting. Think of each stage as an opportunity: before the interview to prepare, during the interview to connect, and after the interview to reinforce your value.
At the end of the day, interviewing is not just about getting a job; it’s about finding the right job. By researching thoroughly, presenting yourself with confidence, asking thoughtful questions, and following up respectfully, you’ll position yourself as a strong candidate—and more importantly, as the right person for the right opportunity.
Hear more about interviews in this episode of The JoyPowered® Workspace Podcast:
Need some extra help cleaning up your resume or with interview prep? Or are you a company getting ready to hire for a role and need help getting your process ready? Reach out to Purple Ink!