Interview Etiquette

There are quite a few “unspoken” and spoken rules of interview conduct and expectations. If you’re preparing for an interview, review this list before the day of to make sure you show up to your interview respecting yourself and the employer.

  • Practice and prepare – If you want to interview with confidence and show your interest in the position, it is important that you spend time practicing your interview skills leading up to the interview. It is also important to set yourself apart from other candidates by researching the employer and learning as much as you can about their business and the people who work there.
  • Arrive / login 5-10 minutes early – Employers notice timeliness and showing up late because you got lost or your computer crashed won’t be a good enough excuse and can result in not getting a job offer.
    • If your interview is virtual, make sure you have a clean background with no distractions.
  • Maintain eye contact with all interviewers.
  • Take notes – Bring a pen & pad, do not take notes on your phone!
  • Don’t ramble – Keep a good balance of detailed and to the point.
  • Be honest – even if they ask a question that will reveal you may not have the experience they’re asking for, provide other examples where you were able to learn quickly.
  • Be friendly & engaged – don’t be afraid to show enthusiasm! This is the best way to make yourself memorable and standout against other candidates.

What to Wear

What you wear makes a huge impact on the first impression employers have on you- it could determine whether or not you get the job!

  • Understand the industry and what is common work attire.
  • Dress a level above what you think you would wear to the job.
  • Avoid extreme clothing, patterns, hair styles, makeup and jewelry. You want them to remember why you’re qualified for the job- not your outfit!
  • Wear appropriate, comfortable shoes. If you tour their facility you don’t want to be in (visible) pain.
  • Come well groomed. Wrinkle-free clothes, clean shaven, clean nails, fresh breath, no strong odors or too much fragrance.

Ask Questions!

When employers ask if you have any questions that means they want you to ask questions! Typically, at the end of the interview, employers will ask if you have any questions for them. It is important you come prepared with at least three questions to ask them. Even if an employer doesn’t ask if you have any questions, find a way to ask them before you leave.

Potential Questions to Ask an Employer

  • Could you walk me through what daily operation in this position would look like if I were hired?
  • What qualities are you looking for in candidates for this position?
  • Are there any specific projects this position would be continuing/starting once the role is filled that we haven’t already discussed?
  • Why do you like working here?
  • What are common professional development opportunities presented to this role?
  • Are there any future opportunities to move up from this position in the company?
  • What are the next steps in the hiring process / when can I expect to hear back from you?

Send a Post-Interview Thank You Email

While this is not required, it does go along way! Some employers will be looking for distinguishing characteristics to set candidates apart and sending a thank you email can boost that effort in your favor. Within 24 hours, candidates should send a variation of the email below to the hiring manager/team.

Hello, (Name)

I wanted to thank the hiring team for taking the time to interview me for (the position title) at (company name). I really enjoyed learning more about the position, specifically (something you learned in the interview).

I am confident I am the perfect candidate for this position and can bring (traits they are looking for) to the team.

I look forward to hearing from you about the position (in the time they told you would hear from them).

Best,

(your name)