Today’s the day! The big interview has arrived, and you want to ensure you do your best. Yet first things first, as soon as you enter the room, your interviewer has already formed some initial opinions about you. They'll be assessing if you're a suitable match for the role and the team, which is why first impressions matter so much! Stand out for all the right reasons by following these interview preparation tips.

Wear the right thing

Show that you're the ideal fit for their team by dressing according to the industry. While a suit might be suitable for a large corporate setting, it could come across as too formal and out of place for a tech start-up, for example.

The simplest way to ensure you're dressed appropriately is to ask: “What should I wear to the interview?” The HR Manager or recruiter who schedules the interview is the best person to ask, but you can also consult someone familiar with the company. When in doubt, it's always safer to dress a bit more formally than you think is necessary.

Body language

Body language plays a crucial role in making a positive first impression during an interview. Even if you're feeling nervous, don’t forget to smile! A simple smile can help set a welcoming tone. To make a strong impact, maintain direct eye contact while speaking.

In a panel interview, focus on the person asking the question, but also remember to make eye contact with each individual as you respond. If you're new to interviews, it can be helpful to practice your body language with a friend or family member until you feel confident.

Treat everyone as if they’re your interviewer

One of the best interview tips starts the moment you leave your house: treat everyone you encounter with the same respect you would show your interviewer. This mindset is not only essential for preparing for the interview, but you never know if any of the people you meet might end up being the ones making decisions about your future.

Research the company and know your stuff

When preparing for a job interview, take the time to understand what the company does, its mission statement, and the specific role you're applying for. Try to bring up this knowledge before you're directly asked, it’s one of the best ways to impress during the interview. Demonstrating that you've done your research shows you're genuinely interested in the position.

Remember, don’t get discouraged if things don’t go as planned. Like anything else, the more interviews you have, the more skilled you’ll become at them!

Good luck!