Before the Interview
Preparation & Punctuality
Proper preparation shows respect for the interviewer's time and demonstrates your professionalism.
- Confirm the interview details (date, time, location) 24 hours in advance
- Plan your route and do a test run if it's an in-person interview
- Aim to arrive 10-15 minutes early for in-person interviews
- For virtual interviews, log in 5-10 minutes early to test technology
- Have a backup plan for technical issues during virtual interviews
Professional Appearance
Your appearance creates the first impression before you even speak.
- Research the company dress code and dress one level more formally
- Choose clean, well-fitting, and conservative clothing
- Avoid strong perfumes/colognes and excessive jewelry
- Ensure good personal grooming and hygiene
- For virtual interviews, pay attention to your background and lighting
During the Interview
First Impressions
The first few minutes set the tone for the entire interview.
Greeting
Offer a firm handshake (if in-person), make eye contact, and smile genuinely.
Introduction
State your name clearly and use the interviewer's name when addressing them.
Seating
Wait to be invited to sit, or ask "Where would you like me to sit?" if unsure.
Communication & Body Language
How you communicate is as important as what you communicate.
Do
- Maintain good eye contact (without staring)
- Sit up straight with an open posture
- Use hand gestures naturally to emphasize points
- Listen actively and nod to show understanding
- Speak clearly and at a moderate pace
Don't
- Slouch, fidget, or appear distracted
- Cross arms defensively
- Interrupt the interviewer
- Use filler words excessively ("um", "like", "you know")
- Check your phone or watch repeatedly
Etiquette for Different Interview Types
Virtual Interview Etiquette
Virtual interviews require additional considerations to maintain professionalism.
Technology Setup
Test your camera, microphone, and internet connection beforehand
Environment
Choose a quiet, well-lit space with a neutral background
Eye Contact
Look at the camera, not the screen, to simulate eye contact
Dress Code
Dress professionally from head to toe, as you might need to stand
Meal Interview Etiquette
Dining interviews assess your social skills and comfort in business settings.
Ordering
Choose medium-priced, easy-to-eat foods; avoid messy dishes
Table Manners
Use proper utensils, chew with mouth closed, and pace your eating
Alcohol
If others order alcohol, you may have one drink maximum or decline politely
Conversation
Balance business talk with light conversation; let the interviewer lead
Panel Interview Etiquette
Multiple interviewers require special attention to engagement with all parties.
Greeting
Shake hands with each panel member and try to remember their names
Eye Contact
Distribute your eye contact evenly among all panel members
Addressing Questions
Direct your answer to the person who asked, but include the whole panel
Thank You
Send individual thank you notes to each panel member
After the Interview
Follow-Up Etiquette
Proper follow-up reinforces your interest and professionalism.
- Send a thank you email within 24 hours of the interview
- Personalize each thank you note for different interviewers
- Mention specific points from your conversation
- Reiterate your interest in the position and company
- Keep the tone professional but warm and appreciative
Post-Interview Communication
How you handle the waiting period matters.
- Respect the timeline provided for next steps
- If you haven't heard back after the stated timeframe, send a polite follow-up
- Avoid excessive follow-ups that may be perceived as pestering
- Respond promptly to any additional requests from the employer
- If you receive an offer, respond within the given timeframe
Handling Rejection
Professionalism extends even when you're not selected.
- Respond graciously to rejection notices
- Thank the interviewer for their time and consideration
- Ask for feedback to improve future interviews (optional)
- Maintain positive relationships - you may cross paths again
- Keep the door open for future opportunities with the company