Interview Do's & Don'ts

Do your homework

Research the company before you walk through the door or join the video call. Understand what they do, who their customers are and what makes them different. Read the job description again and think about how your experience fits the role.

Flash Tip: Prepare three interesting things you've learned about the company. It shows genuine interest.

Do prepare real examples

Employers want evidence, not just claims. Instead of saying you're a great problem-solver, prepare an example of a problem you faced, what you did and what the outcome was. Whenever possible, use specific results or measurable achievements.

Do know your own CV

Anything on your CV is fair game for discussion. Be ready to explain your responsibilities, achievements, career moves, employment gaps and reasons for leaving previous roles. If you mention a skill, be prepared to explain how you've used it.

Do ask questions

An interview is a two-way conversation. You're assessing the company just as much as they're assessing you. Good questions include: What would success look like in the first six months? What are the biggest challenges facing the team right now? Why is this position available?

Do communicate clearly

Listen carefully to each question, take a moment to think and answer what was actually asked. It's absolutely fine to pause before responding or ask for clarification. Keep your answers focused, relevant and supported by examples.

Do get the practical details right

For an in-person interview, plan your journey and aim to arrive around 10 minutes early. For a video interview, test your microphone, camera, internet connection and meeting link beforehand. Dress appropriately for the company and role, and keep your phone silent.

Do be honest

You don't need to know everything. If you haven't used a particular system or don't know the answer to a technical question, say so. Explain how you'd approach learning or solving the problem. Honesty builds trust. Bluffing can quickly damage it.

Do show enthusiasm

You don't need to be the loudest or most outgoing person in the room. Show interest by engaging with the conversation, asking thoughtful questions and explaining why the opportunity appeals to you. Let your personality come through naturally.

Don't speak badly about previous employers

Even if you had a terrible manager or a frustrating experience, avoid turning the interview into a complaint session. Explain what you learned, what you're looking for next and why the new opportunity makes sense for your career.

Don't give one-word answers

A simple "yes" or "no" doesn't give the interviewer much to work with. When asked whether you've managed a team, briefly explain the size of the team, your responsibilities and an achievement you're proud of.

Don't pretend to be someone you're not

Trying to give the answer you think the interviewer wants to hear can make you sound rehearsed or insincere. Be professional, be prepared and be yourself. The goal is to find a role where both you and the employer are a good fit.

Don't make salary your only topic

Salary matters, and there's nothing wrong with discussing it. However, focus on the role, expectations, team and opportunity as well. Know your expectations in advance and be prepared to discuss your range confidently and professionally.

Don't interrupt or dominate the conversation

Let the interviewer finish their question. Listen to what they say and respond thoughtfully. An interview should feel like a conversation, not a competition to see who can speak the most.

Don't arrive unprepared

Avoid asking questions that are easily answered by the company's homepage, turning up without knowing the role or joining a video call from a noisy environment. Preparation shows respect for the interviewer's time and for the opportunity.

Don't exaggerate your experience

Claiming expertise you don't have can create problems later, especially in technical or specialist roles. Be clear about what you know, what you've been exposed to and where you still have room to grow.

Don't forget your online impression

For a video interview, check your background, lighting, camera angle and audio. Close unnecessary tabs and silence notifications. For an in-person interview, be polite to everyone you meet, from reception onwards.

Don't leave without understanding the next steps

Before finishing, ask about the recruitment timeline and when you can expect feedback. You don't need to chase immediately, but a polite follow-up after the interview can reinforce your interest.