Confidence & Engagement: Stand Out in Your Interview

Now that you’ve prepared, project confidence in the interview by interacting as if you’re already part of the team — remember, you’re interviewing them too. Confidence is demonstrated through informed, clear, and concise communication, along with active listening. Maintain eye contact, even in a virtual setting, and keep a conversational tone while sharing your personality without getting too personal. Be ready for questions and engage thoughtfully.

Make a Connection

Even in virtual interviews, there are tricks to making a real connection.

• Just be yourself, yet professional. Don’t be a robot.
• Smile — even on the phone, a smile comes through.
• It’s okay to connect on common interests, as long as it doesn’t derail the interview.
• Listen. Listen. Listen. It’s easy to get excited and want to expand on what the interviewer is saying, but wait until they complete their statement before jumping in.
• Maintain eye contact.

Get Dressed!

Whether your interview is in person or virtual, dress the part. Ask your recruiter if the company tends to dress business professional or business casual. And for virtual interviews, make sure to dress from head to toe!

See more info in this article: “How do you dress appropriately for different types of interviews?”

Be Ready for Tough Questions

Don’t stumble on questions you should be ready for! Here are some of the most-asked questions that candidates should be able to easily respond to but often struggle with. And one big piece of advice: be honest. If you don’t know the answer or lack experience in a certain area, it’s perfectly okay to say so.

“Tell me about yourself.”

This question seems simple, but most people fail to prepare for it. It’s crucial because almost every interviewer will ask it, and it’s your best chance to set the tone for the interview.

Our Recommendation:

• Give a “Pitch”: Keep your response to 30 seconds or less to succinctly tell your story. DO NOT review your entire employment history in detail.
• Use the Present-Past-Future Framework: Start with the present — where you are now. Then segue into the past — highlight key experiences and skills you gained. Finally, finish with the future — why you’re excited about this opportunity.

“What’s your biggest weakness?”

This is often the most dreaded yet frequently asked question. The interviewer is trying to gauge if you’re self-aware and honest.

Prepare Great Questions for the Interviewer

Remember that research you did! Arm yourself with thought-provoking questions for each stage of the interview process and tailor them to the person you’re speaking with.

• Describe a “day in the life” of the person in this role.
• How would you describe the culture of your team?
• What is your management style?
• What longer-term goals (1 year) would I need to achieve to be successful?
• Are there any challenges or obstacles that might hinder my success in this role?
• What drew you to this company? (For longer-term employees, ask: What has kept you here?)

See more tips in this article: “Top 12 Questions To Ask To Get Hired.”

Avoid These Virtual Interview No-No’s

Some job seekers overlook the optics of their environment during a virtual interview. This can be a big mistake, as it says a lot about your interest in and commitment to the position.

• The use of AI tools, including those with meeting notes and recording capabilities, is strictly prohibited. We strongly advise against using them, as candidates are often immediately disqualified if detected.
• Participating in the interview while on a run, driving a car, cooking, or doing other activities (yes, actual examples!)
• Googling or researching during the interview.
• Displaying background artwork that could be seen as offensive or questionable.
• Having a pet, child, roommate, spouse, or co-worker in the room with you.
• Chewing gum or eating food.