16 answers
David
Student
Yuma, Arizona
2
Questions
Asked
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Job interview ?
What are some things I should do during a job interview that will make me look more professional?
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16 answers
Tiffany Pemberton
Director of Concierge Services
1
Answer
Houston, Texas
Updated
Tiffany’s Answer
Hi David,
Like many have suggested, research the company and the role you are trying to secure. This will show you have done your homework, and you are truly interested in the role. Also, make sure you have strong questions for the end of the interview. It always puzzles me when candidates don't have questions. Remember, you are also interviewing them! You need to determine if this is a place you want to spend your time and energy. Last, dress for success. Even in a virtual interview, the way you show up matters. Best of luck in your future interviews!
Like many have suggested, research the company and the role you are trying to secure. This will show you have done your homework, and you are truly interested in the role. Also, make sure you have strong questions for the end of the interview. It always puzzles me when candidates don't have questions. Remember, you are also interviewing them! You need to determine if this is a place you want to spend your time and energy. Last, dress for success. Even in a virtual interview, the way you show up matters. Best of luck in your future interviews!
Steven Harvath
Software Engineer
2
Answers
Portland, Oregon
Updated
Steven’s Answer
Great question, here are a few tips:
1. Look personable (smile, be open, show enthusiasm). First impressions are very important.
2. Research what the organization is working on and discuss what intrigues you with the interviewer(s).
3. Have prepared questions.
4. Never disparage prior workplace environments or former coworkers.
1. Look personable (smile, be open, show enthusiasm). First impressions are very important.
2. Research what the organization is working on and discuss what intrigues you with the interviewer(s).
3. Have prepared questions.
4. Never disparage prior workplace environments or former coworkers.
Rebecca Tang
Banking
2430
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Many students have similar question.
Below are my suggestions:
1. Review the job specification thoroughly and identify area you can meet the requirements and areas that you need improvement
2. Think about the answers of popular questions below and plan for the answers:
- Introduce yourself
- What is your strength and weakness? How can you improve?
- What is your career aspirations?
Highlight he areas you can meet the requirements from Point 1
3. Do research on the company and the interviewers
4. Dress appropriate
5. Arrive the venue punctually
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions:
1. Review the job specification thoroughly and identify area you can meet the requirements and areas that you need improvement
2. Think about the answers of popular questions below and plan for the answers:
- Introduce yourself
- What is your strength and weakness? How can you improve?
- What is your career aspirations?
Highlight he areas you can meet the requirements from Point 1
3. Do research on the company and the interviewers
4. Dress appropriate
5. Arrive the venue punctually
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Aisha Taylor
Mortgage Closing Specialist
505
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Aisha’s Answer
Hi David,
How to Look Professional During a Job Interview
First impressions are crucial, and professionalism can make you stand out. Here’s some practical advice:
Before the Interview
- Research the company: Understand their mission, recent news, and the role details to show genuine interest.
- Plan your route: Arrive 10-15 minutes early to avoid stress and appear punctual.
- Prepare your materials: Bring extra resumes, a notepad, and a pen in a professional folder.
- Check your appearance: Wear ironed, appropriate business attire and be well-groomed.
- Test your tech: For virtual interviews, check your camera, microphone, lighting, and internet connection.
During the Interview
Body Language & Presence
- Make eye contact: It shows confidence and engagement.
- Sit up straight: Good posture conveys confidence and respect.
- Offer a firm handshake: Not too strong or weak, for in-person interviews.
- Smile genuinely: It helps both you and the interviewer relax.
- Minimize fidgeting: Avoid playing with your phone or pen.
Communication
- Speak clearly and at a moderate pace: Don’t rush or mumble.
- Listen actively: Wait for the interviewer to finish before responding.
- Avoid filler words: Minimize "um," "like," and "you know."
- Answer thoughtfully: Pause before responding to avoid rambling.
- Use professional language: Avoid slang and casual language.
Answering Questions
- Be specific with examples: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions.
- Stay positive: Even when discussing challenges or past jobs.
- Show enthusiasm: Demonstrate interest in the role and company.
- Ask clarifying questions: Politely ask if you don’t understand something.
What NOT to Do
- Don’t interrupt: Let the interviewer finish speaking.
- Don’t check your phone: It's disrespectful.
- Don’t badmouth previous employers: It reflects poorly on you.
- Don’t overshare personal information: Keep it work-related.
- Don’t lie: Honesty is essential.
- Don’t ask about salary immediately: Wait until it’s brought up.
At the End
- Ask thoughtful questions: Like "What does success look like in this role?"
- Thank them: Say, "Thank you for speaking with me today. I'm very interested in this opportunity."
- Offer a firm handshake: End professionally.
- Follow up: Send a thank-you email within 24 hours, mentioning specific points from your conversation.
Quick Professional Checklist
- Appropriate attire for the industry
- Well-groomed appearance
- Confident posture and eye contact
- Clear, professional speech
- Prepared and researched
- Positive attitude
- Active listening
- Thoughtful questions
Remember, interviewers want someone who is capable, reliable, and a good team fit. Being professional shows you value the opportunity and respect their time. You've got this!
How to Look Professional During a Job Interview
First impressions are crucial, and professionalism can make you stand out. Here’s some practical advice:
Before the Interview
- Research the company: Understand their mission, recent news, and the role details to show genuine interest.
- Plan your route: Arrive 10-15 minutes early to avoid stress and appear punctual.
- Prepare your materials: Bring extra resumes, a notepad, and a pen in a professional folder.
- Check your appearance: Wear ironed, appropriate business attire and be well-groomed.
- Test your tech: For virtual interviews, check your camera, microphone, lighting, and internet connection.
During the Interview
Body Language & Presence
- Make eye contact: It shows confidence and engagement.
- Sit up straight: Good posture conveys confidence and respect.
- Offer a firm handshake: Not too strong or weak, for in-person interviews.
- Smile genuinely: It helps both you and the interviewer relax.
- Minimize fidgeting: Avoid playing with your phone or pen.
Communication
- Speak clearly and at a moderate pace: Don’t rush or mumble.
- Listen actively: Wait for the interviewer to finish before responding.
- Avoid filler words: Minimize "um," "like," and "you know."
- Answer thoughtfully: Pause before responding to avoid rambling.
- Use professional language: Avoid slang and casual language.
Answering Questions
- Be specific with examples: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions.
- Stay positive: Even when discussing challenges or past jobs.
- Show enthusiasm: Demonstrate interest in the role and company.
- Ask clarifying questions: Politely ask if you don’t understand something.
What NOT to Do
- Don’t interrupt: Let the interviewer finish speaking.
- Don’t check your phone: It's disrespectful.
- Don’t badmouth previous employers: It reflects poorly on you.
- Don’t overshare personal information: Keep it work-related.
- Don’t lie: Honesty is essential.
- Don’t ask about salary immediately: Wait until it’s brought up.
At the End
- Ask thoughtful questions: Like "What does success look like in this role?"
- Thank them: Say, "Thank you for speaking with me today. I'm very interested in this opportunity."
- Offer a firm handshake: End professionally.
- Follow up: Send a thank-you email within 24 hours, mentioning specific points from your conversation.
Quick Professional Checklist
- Appropriate attire for the industry
- Well-groomed appearance
- Confident posture and eye contact
- Clear, professional speech
- Prepared and researched
- Positive attitude
- Active listening
- Thoughtful questions
Remember, interviewers want someone who is capable, reliable, and a good team fit. Being professional shows you value the opportunity and respect their time. You've got this!
Your advice was so helpful!
David
Lusine Madoyan
Analytics
4
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Lusine’s Answer
To project professional mastery during a job interview, you must treat the meeting as a strategic dialogue rather than a one-sided interrogation. The foundation of this confidence is meticulous preparation; you should anticipate questions regarding your technical stack, interpersonal conflict resolution, and past experiences by framing your responses using the STAR method to highlight measurable results. Furthermore, appearing professional means showing you are invested in the company’s future, which is best achieved by preparing high-level questions for the interviewer regarding their specific goals or team culture—this demonstrates that you are already thinking like an internal stakeholder. Ultimately, remember that interviewing is a skill that requires volume and repetition; the more interviews you conduct, the more natural your delivery becomes.
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
833
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
Research the company. Too many people simply don’t know enough about the company they are applying for.
Have a few questions ready to ask. Not asking questions may come off as though you aren’t as invested in the process.
Have a few questions ready to ask. Not asking questions may come off as though you aren’t as invested in the process.
Giselle Nisbett-Jones
Finance Strategic Operations Sr. Manager
5
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Giselle’s Answer
Anticipate the interview questions you might be asked and practice your responses, incorporating relevant examples. While the exact wording of questions may vary, having prepared answers will help you confidently address similar topics.
Research the company or firm thoroughly and gain a clear understanding of the role. Prepare thoughtful questions to ask your interviewer—remember, the interview is a two-way conversation where you are also evaluating if this is the right fit for you.
The more preparation you do, the more confident and composed you will feel. Wishing you the best!
Research the company or firm thoroughly and gain a clear understanding of the role. Prepare thoughtful questions to ask your interviewer—remember, the interview is a two-way conversation where you are also evaluating if this is the right fit for you.
The more preparation you do, the more confident and composed you will feel. Wishing you the best!
Lauren Hawkins
Recruiting Manager
1
Answer
Wellington, Florida
Updated
Lauren’s Answer
Great question! Professionalism is important to interviewers. Prior to the interview understand the company and the team and role. While researching the company be sure to look into the industry as a whole. I would also encourage you to see if any recent news has posted on the organization. Re-read the job description and highlight responsibilities and required skills. Use LinkedIn to look up your interviewers and prepare one or two questions relevant to the interviewers.
Aim to dress a notch above the company's standard dress code. It would be best to avoid anything flashy or distracting. Always arrive early (both in person and virtual).
Answer the questions directly - if a question is asked and you are unsure ask for clarification. If asked to "tell me about yourself" have a prepared 60-90 second introduction that includes background (education, previous roles), key skills and why you applied to the role. Use a polite tone and avoid slang or complaining of previous employers. Make sure to prepare thoughtful questions - focus on areas such as the role, the team and growth opportunities. I'd recommend 3-5 prepared questions.
Aim to dress a notch above the company's standard dress code. It would be best to avoid anything flashy or distracting. Always arrive early (both in person and virtual).
Answer the questions directly - if a question is asked and you are unsure ask for clarification. If asked to "tell me about yourself" have a prepared 60-90 second introduction that includes background (education, previous roles), key skills and why you applied to the role. Use a polite tone and avoid slang or complaining of previous employers. Make sure to prepare thoughtful questions - focus on areas such as the role, the team and growth opportunities. I'd recommend 3-5 prepared questions.
Azilee Billy
Disasters
18
Answers
Sumter, South Carolina
Updated
Azilee’s Answer
The first thing you should focus on for the interview is actually conducting yourself professionally. You can do this by building confidence. Study the job duties and how you can compare yourself and skills to those duties. Study key attributes about the company and be prepared to discuss what you admire about the company. Upon entry your greeting and eye contact is important. Firm friendy handshake when prompted. Speak clearly and calm. Repeat the question if you need time to think about an answer. Your posture should always be attentive. Bring a resume in a business folder with you. Be prepared t take notes and contact information when necessary. When you are asked if you have any questions? This is your time to make your pitch about your ability to do the job and asked what skill is most important to them for a successful candidate. Link yourself to it if possible. For the professional look. Clean is 1st priority. Basic business colors are Blue, Black, or Grey. Shoes polished and professional common design. Hair color and style generic and not highly unusual. Cover any tatoos. Google business attire for examples. Don't worry, you got this! If you get nervous its not the end of your chances of winning the job. You won't be the first or the last to get nervous. Just stay positive and enjoy the journey.
Azilee
Azilee
S I
Finance
28
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
S’s Answer
Professionalism in an interview is less about memorized answers and more about how you show up, communicate, and think. A few fundamentals make a disproportionate difference:
1. Preparation (this shows immediately)
• Research the company’s mission, products, and recent developments
• Understand the role well enough to explain why it fits your skills
• Prepare 2–3 concise examples of past work that demonstrate problem-solving, collaboration, or impact
Interviewers can tell within minutes whether someone has prepared.
2. Clear, structured communication
• Answer questions directly before adding context
• Avoid rambling—pause, think, then respond
• Use concrete examples rather than general statements (“Here’s what I did” vs. “I’m good at…”)
Clarity reads as confidence.
3. Professional presence and body language
• Maintain eye contact and good posture
• Listen fully before responding—don’t interrupt
• Speak at a measured pace and avoid filler words where possible
You don’t need to be stiff—just composed.
4. Thoughtful questions for the interviewer
Asking good questions signals maturity and judgment. For example:
• “What does success look like in the first 6–12 months?”
• “How does the team collaborate day to day?”
• “What challenges is the team currently working through?”
Avoid questions that could be answered by a quick website scan.
5. Professional attitude throughout
• Be respectful to everyone you interact with, not just the interviewer
• Avoid speaking negatively about past employers or colleagues
• Express interest without appearing desperate
Professionalism is often judged by emotional control as much as competence.
6. Close the interview well
• Thank the interviewer for their time
• Reiterate your interest briefly and specifically
• Follow up with a short, polite thank-you message if appropriate
A strong close leaves a lasting impression.
In short:
Preparation, clarity, composure, and curiosity matter more than saying the “perfect” thing. Most candidates fail not because they lack skills, but because they don’t communicate them professionally.
1. Preparation (this shows immediately)
• Research the company’s mission, products, and recent developments
• Understand the role well enough to explain why it fits your skills
• Prepare 2–3 concise examples of past work that demonstrate problem-solving, collaboration, or impact
Interviewers can tell within minutes whether someone has prepared.
2. Clear, structured communication
• Answer questions directly before adding context
• Avoid rambling—pause, think, then respond
• Use concrete examples rather than general statements (“Here’s what I did” vs. “I’m good at…”)
Clarity reads as confidence.
3. Professional presence and body language
• Maintain eye contact and good posture
• Listen fully before responding—don’t interrupt
• Speak at a measured pace and avoid filler words where possible
You don’t need to be stiff—just composed.
4. Thoughtful questions for the interviewer
Asking good questions signals maturity and judgment. For example:
• “What does success look like in the first 6–12 months?”
• “How does the team collaborate day to day?”
• “What challenges is the team currently working through?”
Avoid questions that could be answered by a quick website scan.
5. Professional attitude throughout
• Be respectful to everyone you interact with, not just the interviewer
• Avoid speaking negatively about past employers or colleagues
• Express interest without appearing desperate
Professionalism is often judged by emotional control as much as competence.
6. Close the interview well
• Thank the interviewer for their time
• Reiterate your interest briefly and specifically
• Follow up with a short, polite thank-you message if appropriate
A strong close leaves a lasting impression.
In short:
Preparation, clarity, composure, and curiosity matter more than saying the “perfect” thing. Most candidates fail not because they lack skills, but because they don’t communicate them professionally.
Rachel Scott-Mohammed
Photographer
6
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Rachel’s Answer
Just to echo some of these other answers - DRESS FOR SUCCESS! As an interviewer, I do pay attention to how people dress for an interview. It shows self-care and attention to detail. This goes for in-person OR video interviews. If someone shows up in a hoodie, I have the thought that they're just here to show up; to attend. Putting a little extra effort into your appearance shows that you're willing to put in the efforts of the role. Also want to echo another answer - always be early! You do not want to show up at your interview time, but there early enough so you can START at your interview time.
Some of my best interviews, on both sides of the table, come from interpersonal flow. A great interview is not just a question/answer back and forth, but a discussion of how you and the company can come together to add value for each other. Have some answers prepared for the usual questions: "Tell us about yourself," "why our company?" but also have a few questions prepared for yourself. "What does the training look like?" "What are some typical challenges that others face in this role?"
Use a strong voice but relax your body. You want to be confident in your answers but hold a strong posture. Once, I interviewed a young man for a customer service role who had a solid voice but heavily rocked in the chair provided for him (it was a rolling chair). We passed over him for another candidate because we weren't sure how that would translate to the role.
Lastly, and this may be controversial, don't expect to talk money on the first interview. It's possible the person interviewing may not have that information or able to provide it. That is usually a bigger talk for a 2nd or 3rd interview with a higher up. While money is important, the 1st interview is more about a vibe check - to make sure that you and the role are right for each other. If the interviewer brings it up, great! But often, I found that the people who aggressively want to talk money on the first interview are more about the paycheck than being a good employee. It was a big turnoff for me, as those kinds of people turn out to be troublemakers for the company later on. You want to make yourself extremely desirable in the first interview. The best first impression you can present makes it easier for negotiations later on.
Some of my best interviews, on both sides of the table, come from interpersonal flow. A great interview is not just a question/answer back and forth, but a discussion of how you and the company can come together to add value for each other. Have some answers prepared for the usual questions: "Tell us about yourself," "why our company?" but also have a few questions prepared for yourself. "What does the training look like?" "What are some typical challenges that others face in this role?"
Use a strong voice but relax your body. You want to be confident in your answers but hold a strong posture. Once, I interviewed a young man for a customer service role who had a solid voice but heavily rocked in the chair provided for him (it was a rolling chair). We passed over him for another candidate because we weren't sure how that would translate to the role.
Lastly, and this may be controversial, don't expect to talk money on the first interview. It's possible the person interviewing may not have that information or able to provide it. That is usually a bigger talk for a 2nd or 3rd interview with a higher up. While money is important, the 1st interview is more about a vibe check - to make sure that you and the role are right for each other. If the interviewer brings it up, great! But often, I found that the people who aggressively want to talk money on the first interview are more about the paycheck than being a good employee. It was a big turnoff for me, as those kinds of people turn out to be troublemakers for the company later on. You want to make yourself extremely desirable in the first interview. The best first impression you can present makes it easier for negotiations later on.
TRAVIS UPCHURCH
Federal Contract Admin
230
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
TRAVIS’s Answer
Show up extra early just in case of any traffic or car issues or whatever. Learn the star interview method. Its great. Remember, when they ask you "Tell us about yourself" They want to know about you as it applies to the job requirements. Good luck, you will do well.
Matthew Ibalio MBA
4
Answers
Updated
Matthew’s Answer
Hi David great question! Aisha gave great advice already so here are some additional quick tips.
First look - dress pants, button up dress shirt, a tie, a suit and a fresh hair cut. You want to make a great first impression because that'll set the tone for the rest of the interview.
Practice - Use ChatGPT or Google Gemini to come up with answers to the questions
"Tell me about yourself"
"Why did you apply to this role"
"Why did you apply to this company"
It helps build your career story. This is important since the interviewer will want to understand who you are and who you might be.
Practice your answers daily. Practice them standing, walking, heating up your lunch, driving, and before bed.
If it comes down to you versus another candidate with a better resume but they can't communicate themselves confidently and properly but you can, you'll land the job.
Good luck!
First look - dress pants, button up dress shirt, a tie, a suit and a fresh hair cut. You want to make a great first impression because that'll set the tone for the rest of the interview.
Practice - Use ChatGPT or Google Gemini to come up with answers to the questions
"Tell me about yourself"
"Why did you apply to this role"
"Why did you apply to this company"
It helps build your career story. This is important since the interviewer will want to understand who you are and who you might be.
Practice your answers daily. Practice them standing, walking, heating up your lunch, driving, and before bed.
If it comes down to you versus another candidate with a better resume but they can't communicate themselves confidently and properly but you can, you'll land the job.
Good luck!
Eugene Dvorochkin
Information / cyber security
3
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Eugene’s Answer
I think Aisha hit most of the main points, but here are a few suggestions from my end.
-Prep beforehand. In the old days thats all we could do, now with AI, people will have various tools running to listen to the questions and give them responses. Do not do this. As an interviewer its very easy to tell when the person your interviewing is using these tools. Do all the research you need before and practice the interview a few times so your well prepared
-Have a good reason for why you are looking for a new role. Instead of bad mouthing previous company like some said, make it more about your growth goals. Connect what you did from previous role to the role your interviewing for and mention how you really want to further develop these skills or do more of x. If your switching careers all together, then come prepared with what skills you gained at your last job and how they can apply to the new one
- Come prepared with questions. At the end of every interview the interviewer will save time to for you to ask questions. So ask about culture, what the person likes most about working there, etc.
-Prep beforehand. In the old days thats all we could do, now with AI, people will have various tools running to listen to the questions and give them responses. Do not do this. As an interviewer its very easy to tell when the person your interviewing is using these tools. Do all the research you need before and practice the interview a few times so your well prepared
-Have a good reason for why you are looking for a new role. Instead of bad mouthing previous company like some said, make it more about your growth goals. Connect what you did from previous role to the role your interviewing for and mention how you really want to further develop these skills or do more of x. If your switching careers all together, then come prepared with what skills you gained at your last job and how they can apply to the new one
- Come prepared with questions. At the end of every interview the interviewer will save time to for you to ask questions. So ask about culture, what the person likes most about working there, etc.
Paul Silano Jr
Marketing Manager
7
Answers
Davenport, Florida
Updated
Paul’s Answer
I would say come prepared having a good understanding of the job based on the job application, but prepared to ask questions about the gaps that you don't know. It shows that you did your research and are actually interested in the job. Also, be prepared to speak about your current experience and how it can translate into the role you're applying for. It's important to come prepared for the interview, rather than tackling it as it comes.
Shiho Miranda
assistant manager
1
Answer
Chesapeake, Virginia
Updated
Shiho’s Answer
I see you already received very professional answer, so let me present a fun idea.
This one makes a huge difference if you are NOT used to wear business attire so much.
If you aren't,
Go shopping to pick a new business casual that you like in the color you look good. Have someone else choose them for you if needed.
Maybe couple sets if you can, then wear them and walk around on a ordinally day, and days.
Walk on campus, go to random cafe and order something, go to bookstore, city hall or library". Just do things in them.
Don't just wear them on interview day only, ONLY to look like worn by the brand new suits. Don't forget to look in the mirror and encourage youself everyday too.
When you feel relaxed in that kind of style, your mind starts believing that you are a businesman who feels confident in whatever you are atracted to.
How relaxed you are matters to your first imoression, so don't discount the power of your mindset.
This one makes a huge difference if you are NOT used to wear business attire so much.
If you aren't,
Go shopping to pick a new business casual that you like in the color you look good. Have someone else choose them for you if needed.
Maybe couple sets if you can, then wear them and walk around on a ordinally day, and days.
Walk on campus, go to random cafe and order something, go to bookstore, city hall or library". Just do things in them.
Don't just wear them on interview day only, ONLY to look like worn by the brand new suits. Don't forget to look in the mirror and encourage youself everyday too.
When you feel relaxed in that kind of style, your mind starts believing that you are a businesman who feels confident in whatever you are atracted to.
How relaxed you are matters to your first imoression, so don't discount the power of your mindset.