Interview dos and don’ts: how to prepare for a successful job interview

What are interview dos and don’ts?

Interview dos and don’ts are essential guidelines that help you understand what to do and what to avoid when preparing for and attending a job interview.  Following these interview dos and don’ts can help you prepare effectively for a job interview and avoid common mistakes.

A strong interview is often the deciding factor in landing your next role. The more prepared you are, the more confident you’ll feel, and that confidence will show. Below, we break down the top interview dos and don’ts to help you put your best foot forward. 

Top 5 job interview dos
 

1. Do your homework

Preparation is key to interview success. Researching the company shows genuine interest and helps you tailor your answers. Visit their website, explore recent news coverage, and review the company’s values and culture. 
 
If possible, look up your interviewers on LinkedIn to learn more about their background and career journey. This helps you build rapport and frame more relevant questions.
 

2. Make a good first impression

Arrive early, dress appropriately, and bring a copy of your CV. Knowing the details of your experience allows you to confidently discuss your achievements. 
 
For virtual interviews, test your camera and microphone in advance and set up in a quiet, professional space. Since you can’t rely on a handshake or in-person presence, maintain eye contact, smile, and show genuine enthusiasm.
 

3. Listen and respond accordingly

Active listening is a crucial interview skill. Avoid over-talking or drifting off-topic and instead, listen carefully and respond directly to each question. Support your answers with examples from your professional experience that demonstrate your strengths and problem-solving skills. 
 
A great way to structure your responses is by using the STAR technique, which stands for Situation, Task, Action and Result. This approach helps you give clear, well-organised answers that highlight how you’ve applied your skills to achieve outcomes, making your responses more impactful and easier for interviewers to follow.
 

4. Prepare smart, open ended questions to ask the interviewer

An interview is a two-way conversation. Thoughtful questions show initiative and curiosity about the company’s culture and direction. 
 
You might ask:

• “What does success look like in this role?”

• “Can you tell me more about the team I’ll be working with?”

This demonstrates that you’re invested in finding the right fit for both you and the organisation.

5. Sell your strengths and expertise

Be ready to clearly articulate your strengths and how they align with the role. Focus on measurable achievements such as successful projects or performance improvements and keep your tone confident but humble. 
 
Showing self-awareness and enthusiasm will help you stand out among other candidates.
 

Top 5 job interview don'ts
 

1. Don’t speak poorly about your present or former employers

Negative comments about former managers or companies raise red flags. Even if you’ve had difficult experiences, frame them constructively. Focus on what you learned and how you grew professionally.
 

2. Don’t falsify information

Honesty builds trust. Exaggerating your skills or achievements can easily backfire. If asked about an area you’re less confident in, acknowledge it and explain how you’re developing that skill or eager to learn.
 

3. Don’t speak over the interviewer

Respectful communication is key. Avoid talking over your interviewer, even unintentionally. Pause briefly before answering questions, especially in video calls where slight audio delays can cause overlap.
 

4. Don’t assume it isn’t an interview

A coffee chat or “final conversation” is still an interview. Stay professional and treat every interaction as an opportunity to make a strong impression. 
 
Even in relaxed settings, your attitude and communication style will influence the decision-making process.
 

5. Don’t let any past rejections infringe on future ones

Job searching can be challenging, but resilience is essential. Treat each interview as a new opportunity to improve and showcase your skills. 
 
Reflect on past experiences to identify what you can do better and maintain a positive mindset throughout your job hunt.

Mastering interview dos and don’ts

Understanding these interview do’s and don’ts will help you approach your next interview with confidence and clarity. Preparation, professionalism, and a positive attitude are key to success and every interview is a chance to learn and grow.

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