Job interviews can be intimidating but candidates get a job only when they are presentable, well-prepared and confident. You may have a mindblowing resume or CV, but it's the actual interview process that will measure your real skills and talent. Your confidence, attitude, communication skills, and overall demeanor are just as important as your experience and education. An interview isn’t just about answering questions; it’s a two-way conversation. Both you and the interviewer need to figure out if you’re the right fit for each other. The best way to make a great impression? 

Here are 8 common job interview tips with smart answering techniques to help you impress the interviewer and boost your chances of landing the job. 

 

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10 Tips To Ace a job Interview

 

1. Prepare in Advance, Research About the Company
First thing first, preparation is the key aspect of cracking any type of interview. Dig into the company’s mission, recent achievements, and big milestones. Check out their social media, industry trends, and even a little background on your interviewer. The more you know, the more confident and prepared you’ll feel walking into that room (or logging into that Zoom call). The interview may ask questions based on their firm and may expect you to know a few things. So, a little research can go a long way in making you stand out. This also creates an impression and may increase your chances of getting hired. 

 

2. Dress Approperiately, Preferably Formals
Your interview outfit should be professional, comfortable, and most importantly make you feel confident. Before deciding what to wear, check out the company culture. A bank? A suit is a safe bet. For an ad agency, business casual will do. If you’re not used to wearing formal clothes, do a trial run beforehand. Nothing’s worse than wriggling in an uncomfortable suit. And don’t forget the details: ironed shirt & pants, polished shoes, neat hair, short nails for men and clean or light-coloured polished nails for women. 

 

Related story: Things You Should Not Disclose During An Interview

 

3. Right Time And Pronunciation Matters
Make it a point to arrive 10-15 minutes early, interviewers are often ready ahead of schedule, and this shows you’re proactive. Here’s a game-changing tip: know your interviewer’s name, including the correct spelling and pronunciation. Using it naturally in conversation adds a personal touch and demonstrates your attention to detail. If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to call ahead and ask. And here’s an additional power move: familiarise yourself with the secretary’s name as well. They can have more influence than you might realise. 

 

4. Prepare A Set of Questions to Build Rapport
Arm yourself with insightful questions; this demonstrates your genuine interest in both the role and the company. Creating a connection at the beginning sets a positive tone for the entire conversation. A little connection at the start can set a positive tone for the rest of the conversation.

 

5. Be Calm 
Feeling nervous? That’s completely normal, the key is to channel nervousness into positive energy. Confidence isn’t about being flawless; it’s about being genuine and self-assured. It is your strongest ally. Instead of inflating your skills, emphasise how your real experiences make you an exceptional candidate. 

 

Related story: Work Skills 101: Guide to Calm Nerves Before An Interview

 

6. Tackle Tough Questions Smartly
Not every question will have an easy answer, and that’s okay. If you need a moment to think, ask for it. It’s much better than rushing into a weak response. Also, make sure you’re really listening to the interviewer. Many candidates focus so much on what they want to say next that they miss key details in the conversation.

 

7. Be Professional & Patient
Salary and benefits are important, but let the interviewer bring them up first. Jumping into compensation talk too soon can make it seem like that’s your only priority. Focus on proving your value first, and when the time is right, the conversation will naturally shift to the offer.

 

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8. Follow Up & Leave a Lasting Impression
Your job isn’t done when you walk out the door or log off the call. A thoughtful thank-you email can set you apart from other candidates. Keep it brief but sincere. Thank them for their time, mention something memorable from the conversation, and express your enthusiasm for the role. A small gesture like this can leave a lasting impression and reinforce your interest in the job.

 

Related Story: How to Handle the Stress of A New Job

 

Succeeding in a job interview is not just about having all the right answers; it's about being prepared, confident, and engaged. Make sure to do your research, present yourself professionally, and handle challenging questions with grace. Interviews are a two-way street, so you should also consider whether the company is the right fit for you. With the right mindset and preparation, you won't just impress the interviewer; you'll leave knowing you did your best.

 

Mindfulness 101:Bring calm into your day with these daily tips. Sign up here.