Getting ready for your dream job interview can be exciting and nerve-wracking, especially when it’s in person. While virtual interviews once became the norm, many companies are returning to face-to-face interviews, which remain a crucial part of the hiring process.
Meeting in person can be advantageous because it adds depth to your interaction and allows you to showcase your skills, personality, and overall fit for the role. However, it can also be intimidating for some and takes a little practice to master.
This guide outlines the essential steps for preparing for your next in-person interview. From research and attire to communication tips and follow-ups, you’ll know how to leave a lasting impression in all the right ways!
Research & Practice: Keys to Interview Success
Every future hire our staff talks with has shared that “winging it” in an interview has never worked for them. Even having a bare minimum of a plan and knowledge about the company they are interviewing with has helped them.
Do Your Homework on the Company & Role
Preparation begins with knowing the employer inside and out. Visit the company’s website, read their "About Us" page, and check out blogs, news updates, and recent press releases. What do they value? What direction is the business heading?
Checking out their social media platforms, such as LinkedIn, can also give insights into company culture and recent achievements.
Next, research the role you’re interviewing for. Carefully review the job description and note any mention of key skills, tools, or qualifications. This will help you align your strengths with their needs during the interview.
Perfect Your Response to Common Questions
Some interview questions come up time and time again. "Tell me about yourself," "Why do you want this position?" or "What are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?" are often part of the mix. Have thoughtful answers ready by practicing these questions ahead of time.
To elevate your preparation, create a personal elevator pitch — a quick 30 to 60-second summary of who you are, your key accomplishments, and what makes you a great fit for the role. It’s the perfect way to kick things off confidently.
Practice, practice, practice! Conduct mock interviews with a friend, family member, or even in front of a mirror to fine-tune delivery and timing.
Mastering the First Impression
First impressions matter. Even if you have the right credentials, how you dress, carry yourself, and behave in an interview can make or break the hiring decision.
Dress for the Part
Choose attire that’s appropriate for the company’s industry and culture. Stick to a tailored suit for formal industries or supervisory or team lead roles. For creative or more tech-based companies with a relaxed vibe, opt for business casual — think of a well-fitted blazer with chinos or a chic dress with subtle accessories.
When in doubt, always lean toward being slightly overdressed rather than underdressed. Looking polished shows respect for the opportunity and reflects your professionalism.
Prepare a Checklist of Essentials to Bring
There’s nothing worse than showing up unprepared. Pack everything the night before to avoid last-minute stress.
Here's what to bring:
Pro tip: Leave unnecessary items at home so you’re not juggling too much or appearing disorganized.
Communicating & Sending the Right Signals
This is where practicing and rehearsing in front of a mirror or a friend is crucial. The more comfortable you are with how you speak and present yourself, the better.
Speak with Clarity & Confidence
Communication is about what you say and how you say it. Speak clearly, stay on topic, and show enthusiasm for the role and company. Avoid filler words like “um” or “uh”. Pause briefly instead.
A little silence before you respond to a question shows that you are thinking to generate a good response. Jumping right in to answer the question quickly is when people often start to trip up their reply.
Pay Attention to Body Language
Your body language speaks louder than words.
Here’s how to use it to your advantage:
Handling Difficult or Unexpected Questions
No matter how much you prepare, tricky questions may arise.
For example:
“What’s your biggest failure?” Avoid focusing purely on the failure. Instead, share what you learned from it and how it helped you grow.
“Why should we choose you over other candidates?” Highlight your unique accomplishments, skills, perspectives, or anything that sets you apart. Be confident, but not boastful.
If you encounter a completely unexpected question, stay calm. Take a moment to think before responding. It’s perfectly acceptable to say, “That’s a great question. May I take a second?” Thoughtfulness shows professionalism.
Also, consider using the STAR method to stay focused on how to answer difficult questions confidently.
Post-Interview Actions That Matter
Even when the interview is over, you can still do some things to make yourself more memorable or help you learn from the experience and better prepare for the next one.
Write a Thank-You Note or Email
Following up after the interview is non-negotiable.
Within 24 hours, send a personalized thank-you email to your interviewer(s). Express gratitude for their time, reiterate your enthusiasm for the role, and briefly touch on something specifically discussed in the interview to show you were engaged.
Not only does this demonstrate professionalism, but it also keeps you top-of-mind as they make their decision.
Reflect on the Experience
Ask yourself these questions after the interview:
Learning from each experience makes you better prepared for the next one. Keep track of your interviews with notes on the company, role, and any follow-ups.
Organization is key as you pursue multiple opportunities.
Nail the Interview, Land the Job
Thorough preparation is the key to acing any in-person interview. Now that you have strategies in place, it’s time to put them into action!
Contact One Tech to discover job opportunities, leadership positions, and new openings in technical, engineering, manufacturing, and construction industries. Submit your resume or send us a message to get started.
If you're looking for more guidance on interviews or career advancement, don’t hesitate to reach out to our skilled recruiters, and stay tuned for our latest tips and resources!