The impression you make on the interviewer can often outweigh your actual credentials. Your poise, attitude, basic social skills, and ability to communicate are evaluated alongside your experience and education. Below are some of the ways you can consider when you want to make a lasting impression:

Thoughtful Responses: Avoid rushing to answer questions immediately. Take a few seconds to reflect and think clearly. Instant responses can indicate a lack of thought. Avoid very short and direct answers; instead, provide detailed, clear, and concise responses. If possible, tell relevant stories to illustrate your points.

Confidence, Not Desperation, Not Rude: Do not beg for a favor during the interview. Avoid being overly humble or unnecessarily pleasing. Think of yourself as a brand with established values. You are attending an interview, not seeking charity. Begging shows desperation and can make you appear emotionally unstable and lacking in self-esteem.

Ask Questions: Do not be afraid to ask questions. Failing to ask questions can imply you are either pretending to understand everything, playing it safe, or just wanting any job without a genuine interest in serving the company. To fully serve, you need a thorough understanding of the role and the company, which comes from asking questions. Research the organization and its critical pain points. Ask as many questions as needed until you fully understand the role.

Preparation is Key: Do enough preparation. Think about what might prevent you from being hired. Conduct a self-evaluation of your capabilities and weaknesses in relation to the job’s minimum requirements. Do not dwell on your weaknesses; instead, take action to improve. Learn new skills, seek volunteering opportunities, or pursue internships if you lack experience.

By following these guidelines, you can make a positive and lasting impression during your interview.