Job Interview Etiquette: What to Do Before, During, and After

There's no need to go in blind for your next job interview. From what to wear to what to say, you have the ultimate guide to job interview advice right here. This guide will help you make a strong first impression and stand out from other candidates.

Let's go over interview etiquette before, during, and after the meeting, so you can land the job of your dreams.

Before: How to prepare for a job interview 

Even by asking, “How do I prepare for an interview for a job?” you're already on the right path. Preparation sets the foundation for a successful interview, and that includes being ready to answer common questions and present yourself as the best match for the role.

1. Research the company and position

Research the company’s mission, values, and recent projects. Understand the role you're applying for and how it fits into the company’s goals. This shows you're genuinely interested and also helps you tailor your answers to align with the company’s needs.

“Dig into the company culture, read employee reviews to see what the day-to-day is really like, and check out their social media pages and recent news,” says CEO Becky Babb, who has over ten years of experience interviewing candidates in the healthcare industry. “This will give you a better understanding of their values and mission, which you can then weave into your answers.”

2. Plan your outfit

Your job interview attire speaks before you do, so plan it carefully. (Yes, this also applies to virtual interviews.) 

So, what to wear to a job interview? Consider the company culture—what you’d wear to a corporate firm is different from what you'd choose for a creative agency. Opt for professional clothing that makes you feel confident, and remember that it’s always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed. 

3. Practice common interview question

We can't predict every question you'll be asked, but you can expect some classics will come your way. Questions like “Tell me about yourself” and “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” are staples in interviews. Practice your responses—try mock interviews, record yourself, or rehearse with a friend—but keep it natural. Make sure your answers stay short and relevant to the job.

It's also super important to have a number in mind in case you're asked about salary expectations. To get to that number, research the market to see how much the competitors are paying for similar positions. That way if asked, you can confidently explain that  you did some competitive research and give a reasonable expected salary range that  matches your seniority and qualifications. 

During: How to ace your interview

Once you're in the interview, it's all about making a strong impression. This is your chance to showcase not only your qualifications but also your personality and how you fit into the company culture. 

Remember, interviews are a two-way street—they're not just evaluating you; you're also evaluating them. By staying engaged, being yourself, and handling questions but also making some, you can leave a lasting positive impression that may tip the scales in your favor.

From arriving early to demonstrating effective communication skills through mindful body language and thoughtful responses, here’s what you need to know to make a memorable impact during your interview: 

1. Arrive (or log in) early

Punctuality doesn't get you extra points—it's a basic minimum requirement. Aim to arrive at the interview location about 10-15 minutes early. If it’s a virtual interview, make sure to log on at least five minutes before the scheduled time to avoid any last-minute technical issues.

2. Be mindful of your body language

Your body language can say just as much as your words. Maintain good posture, make eye contact, and offer a firm handshake (or a confident greeting in a virtual setting). Avoid crossing your arms, fidgeting, or looking at your phone—these behaviors can signal disinterest or nervousness.

3. Listen carefully and respond thoughtfully

Active listening is just as important as providing good answers. Listen carefully to the interviewer’s questions, and take a moment to gather your thoughts before responding. You don't need to rush to answer! If you’re unsure about a question, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. 

As you answer, you can use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses. “Make sure to highlight your achievements,” Babb says. “Use real examples and metrics to show how you've made a positive impact.” 

4. Interview the interviewer

Go ahead and ask questions that reflect your interest in the company’s future and your potential role in it. “Brainstorm a list of insightful questions that showcase your knowledge of the industry and the specific challenges the company is facing,” Babb says. “This will make you stand out from other candidates who might ask standard questions.”

After: Always follow up 

The interview doesn't end when you log off or walk out the door. What you do after the interview can significantly influence the hiring decision. A thoughtful follow-up shows your continued interest in the position and can keep you at the top of the hiring team's mind. 

1. Send a thank-you note

Within 24 hours of your interview, send a thank-you email to your interviewer. Express your gratitude for the opportunity, highlighting something specific you discussed during the interview, and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. Make sure not to use AI or write something too generic; personalized messages are the most impactful. 

2. Reflect on your performance

Take some time after the interview to reflect on how it went. What questions did you answer well? Where could you have done better? Use this reflection to prepare for future interviews. Every interview is a learning experience, and the more you review your performance, the better you'll get.

Mastering job interview etiquette is more than just a checklist of dos and don’ts—it’s about approaching each stage with confidence, preparation, and authenticity. By taking the time to prepare beforehand, making a great impression during the interview, and following up thoughtfully afterward, you're not only showcasing your skills and qualifications but also demonstrating your professionalism and commitment. 

How to deal with gender discrimination in hiring processes

It seems outrageous that gender discrimination still exists in these modern times—but it does. Unfortunately, you may encounter a range of discriminatory questions during the interview process that are not only inappropriate but often illegal. 

These can include questions about personal status such as marital status, children, ethnic background, and sexual orientation. Employers might also subtly scrutinize your appearance, including your clothes, hair, and makeup, in ways they wouldn't for male candidates.

If you're faced with these types of inquiries, it's important to tactfully redirect the conversation back to your skills and experiences. For example, if asked about your plans to have children, you could respond by emphasizing your professional commitment and readiness to excel in the role. 

“Highlight how your diverse background adds value to the role, focusing on the strengths it brings,” Babb says. “As a woman, you have a unique perspective and approach to problem-solving—own it and let it shine. This can be your superpower.”

Watch out for red flags

Seeing this discriminatory behavior in job interviews is a major red flag of the company's culture and values. If an employer is willing to cross these boundaries in an interview, it might indicate a workplace that does not fully respect diversity and inclusion. It's worth considering whether this is the kind of environment where you would feel comfortable and supported in your career.

You deserve to be assessed on your qualifications and potential, not on personal attributes that have no bearing on your professional capabilities. If you encounter these issues, remember that it's your right to seek out employers who value your talents and provide a respectful, inclusive workplace.