Interviewing with confidence: guidelines for interviewees
Getting a call for an interview is exciting — but it can also be nerve-racking. Whether it’s a scheduled in-person meeting or a last-minute Zoom call, how you perform depends largely on the preparation and self-awareness you bring into it.
With over 25 years of experience hiring across roles — from HR to CEO — I’ve come to believe this: there are no good or bad candidates. There’s only the right fit for a role at a point in time, and the clarity with which both sides assess that fit.
Rejection doesn’t mean failure. It often means misalignment — or that you didn’t bring your best preparation to the table. Let’s change that.
Here’s how.
The Preparation
1. Make Your Resume Work for You
Your resume is more than a document — it’s your first impression. It needs to grab attention, spark interest, and invite a conversation.
What hiring managers really look for:
- Visual appeal: A clean, easy-to-read format shows professionalism and attention to detail. Avoid typos and clutter.
- Professional photo (optional): A smart, formal photo can humanize your application and create a connection.
- Clarity on role fit: Mention the position you’re applying for or the roles you’re interested in right up top.
- Concise summary: Include a quick overview of your experience, skills, and key strengths — this guides the reader through your story.
Avoid generic templates. A thoughtful, tailored resume makes you stand out.
2. Prepare by Thinking Through Your CV — and Yourself
Don’t just write your resume — reflect on it. This is your chance to build clarity and confidence.
Reflect on:
- Your aspirations and goals: What are you really looking for in your career and life?
- Your values: What do you stand for, and how have you acted on those values?
- Your achievements: Go beyond job titles — what have you really accomplished, and how?
- Your failures and learnings: What have you learned, how have you grown?
Back up your claims with real examples:
If you say you’re good at sales, be ready to share specifics:
- What did you do differently?
- What strategies worked?
- What were the numbers or results?
This applies to strengths like leadership or strategic thinking too. Don’t just label yourself — demonstrate it.
3. Research the Company (and Yourself Online)
Walk into the interview knowing more than just the job title. Good research signals seriousness and initiative.
Do your homework:
- Understand the company: Know their business model, vision, values, competitors, and key stakeholders.
- Study your interviewer(s): A quick LinkedIn search can help you find common ground or anticipate their perspective.
- Update your own profile: Ensure your LinkedIn reflects your latest role, skills, and a professional photo.
Pro tip:
Prepare a few thoughtful questions for the interviewer. It shows engagement and curiosity — two qualities every hiring manager values.
4. Don’t Skip the Basics
Fundamentals still matter — they help you walk in with confidence and make a great first impression.
Remember to:
- Dress professionally: Always err on the side of formality, especially if unsure.
- Be punctual: Arrive early or log in a few minutes before a virtual call.
- Bring copies of your resume: Yes, even in 2025.
- Carry supporting material: If you’re a fresher or entry-level candidate, bring certificates, project reports, or recognitions in a neat folder.
These signals matter — they reflect your preparation and respect for the opportunity.
The Interview
Art Markman, in his HBR article “3 Questions Hiring Managers Want You to Answer”, narrows the key concerns to:
“What will it be like to work with you?”
“Can you learn?”
“Do you take initiative?”
Here’s how to bring those answers to life — without being asked directly.
1. Be a Great Listener
Listening is one of the most underestimated interview skills.
- Active listeners respond better, ask thoughtful questions, and come across as grounded and composed.
- Poor listeners tend to interrupt, miss the actual question, or ramble.
Ask for feedback from a friend or colleague. Are you truly listening — or just waiting to talk?
Good news: Listening is a skill. Practice it consciously.
2. Communicate with Clarity and Structure
Clear communication reflects clear thinking.
- Answer in points: It helps the interviewer follow your logic.
E.g., “There are three things I took away from that experience…” - Stay on track: If you digress, circle back with a short summary.
- Use examples: Share specific stories from your past roles to illustrate key skills or results.
Preparation makes your answers sharp. Practice them out loud.
3. Watch Your Body Language
Non-verbal communication is powerful.
- Posture: Sit upright — confident but not stiff.
- Eye contact: While listening and speaking, it builds trust.
- Hand gestures: Use them naturally, but avoid fidgeting or repetitive movements.
Also, become aware of habits like:
- Overusing fillers: “Um,” “like,” “you know”
- Nervous tics: Leg shaking, tapping, twisting in your seat
Body language can make or break your impression — but it’s also something you can improve with a little practice and awareness.
4. Practice Assertive Humility
This is the sweet spot between confidence and modesty.
- Speak your mind clearly, even if not directly asked.
- Hold your space if interrupted, respectfully: “If I may finish that thought…”
- Be honest: Admit when you don’t know something, or share a failure and the lessons learned.
Assertive humility is about being real — not scripted. It shows confidence, self-awareness, and the ability to learn.
After the interview
Send a thank-you note:
A short, sincere message goes a long way.
“Thank you for the opportunity. I enjoyed our conversation and appreciated the insights you shared. I look forward to staying in touch.”
Ask for feedback (if appropriate):
If rapport was strong and you didn’t make it, it’s okay to ask. A brief email or call request shows maturity and helps you grow.
Final Thought: Preparation Is Never Wasted
You may not land every role. But thoughtful interview preparation builds confidence, sharpens your communication, and brings you closer to where you want to be.
Every interview is a step forward — if you use it well.