How to make an impression, ace an interview

I’m always reminded of this legendary quote when it comes to interviews:

“A typical job interview is a conversation between two liars.” – Claudio Fernández-Aráoz

That’s a topic for another day, but for now here a few tips on how you can ace your next interview.

First impressions are formed within 30–90 seconds of meeting someone. Intuition, gut instinct influence decisions unconsciously and quicker than we realize. There are experts, professionals trained to spot potential. Your job is to make that window work in your favor. Preparation, energy, and subtle but thoughtful gestures all add up.

Dress the Part

How you show up visually matters. Being sharp, well-groomed, and presentable communicates effort, shows that one has style and gravitas. When in doubt, it is good to lean on being formally dressed, it’s safer than appearing casual. Each company has its own culture, so do your homework and dress accordingly. Ignore this at your own risk.

Confidence and Presence

Energy you bring announces itself. Relax, breathe, and remember this is a conversation, not an interrogation. Avoid quick, short responses. Take a moment to think and articulate clearly. Balance confidence with humility. Don’t let your past accomplishments slip into arrogance or entitlement. Instead, let your enthusiasm and curiosity shine through in the conversation.

Structure Your Response

Clarity can impress. If you’re asked about past experiences, use the STAR framework (Situation, Task, Action, Result). It prevents you from rambling and shows that you can think and communicate with structure.

Be Likable

People hire people they want to work with, who they like and find rewarding to be with. Show emotional intelligence: Stay open, pleasant, and composed even when faced with tough questions. Pay attention to body language, eye contact, and tone. Small things like a smile, nodding at the right moments, or listening attentively go a long way. Avoid hard push backs, if you’re already disagreeing, being argumentative in an interview then this would be amplified when actual work starts. Winning an argument might boost your ego but would not get you the job.

Be on time

This sets you up for success. Whereas being late makes you start on the back foot. This is basic but often overlooked. Arriving late signals poor preparation and lack of respect for the interviewer’s time. Being punctual demonstrates seriousness, discipline, and planning. Some of the most committed candidates even visit the interview location a day in advance to check traffic, parking, and routes. Do not underestimate the importance of being on time

Know the company

An interviewer will always be impressed to know that you took the time and effort to know about the company, latest news, press releases, key people, future plans. This builds credibility and shows you have spent time researching and have spoken to people in the industry.

Ask questions

Always be ready with interesting, sharp questions. It’s a missed opportunity to earn extra points if you do not ask questions. It shows your curiosity, hunger to learn and wanting to make an impact.

Interviews are not about switching on your charm in the moment and hoping it works. They’re about preparation, connection, and showing up at your best. Hiring decisions can be made in under a minute or take weeks to formalize. Either way, you play a key role in influencing the outcome.

What other tips would you add to this? 

What’s one tip that worked for you?