Interview Top 5 Dos and Don’ts
Master the basics of interview etiquette and avoid the most common mistakes
Updated on:
September 30, 2025
September 30, 2025
September 30, 2025
The Top 5 Dos
The Top 5 Dos
The Top 5 Dos
1. Do Your Homework
Researching the company before your interview is more than a formality. According to Harvard Business Review, candidates who can connect their skills directly to the company’s mission are far more likely to stand out. Employers consistently expect candidates to understand not just the job description, but also the company’s culture and current challenges.
Reddit discussions from recruiters emphasize that nothing kills momentum faster than a candidate who asks “So, what does your company do?” halfway through the conversation. Instead, dig into the company’s recent news, leadership team, and even Glassdoor reviews. Not only does this help you prepare thoughtful questions, but it also signals genuine interest.
Check out our guide on questions to ask in an interview to take your prep a step further.
2. Do Practice Out Loud
Practicing answers in your head is one thing, but speaking them out loud builds fluency and reduces nervous filler words. A Forbes article highlights that rehearsing out loud improves pacing and confidence, and even helps you refine your tone.
Mock interviews with a friend or mentor are ideal, but even recording yourself on your phone can make a huge difference. Reddit threads are full of candidates who admit they bombed interviews simply because they froze when trying to articulate a story. The key is to practice until your delivery sounds natural, not robotic.
For a structured approach, start with common behavioral prompts like “Tell me about a time you faced a challenge” and “Why do you want this role?” Then refine your stories using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
3. Do Dress Appropriately
First impressions matter, and your outfit sets the tone before you even speak. While workplaces are becoming more casual, it’s safer to slightly overdress than underdress. A study cited by Psychology Today shows that professional attire can boost self-confidence and how others perceive your competence.
If you’re unsure, aim for smart casual: a blazer, button-up shirt, or neat blouse. On Reddit’s career forums, hiring managers often point out that while a candidate’s clothes won’t usually land them the job, being noticeably underdressed can leave a negative impression that’s hard to recover from.
4. Do Listen Carefully
Many candidates get so focused on delivering their prepared answers that they forget to truly listen. Active listening shows emotional intelligence and adaptability, qualities recruiters consistently rank highly in LinkedIn’s Global Talent Trends report.
Listening carefully helps you respond directly to what’s asked rather than launching into a generic answer. It also allows you to pick up on subtle cues about what the interviewer values. Taking a beat before answering shows thoughtfulness and prevents rambling.
5. Do Follow Up After the Interview
Sending a short, personalized thank-you note is still one of the simplest ways to leave a positive final impression. In fact, a Reddit thread confirms that hiring managers appreciate receiving thank-you emails, yet few candidates actually send them.
Keep your message concise: thank them for their time, reiterate your enthusiasm for the role, and briefly highlight how your skills align with the position. For more detailed guidance, check out our article on how to follow up after an interview.
1. Do Your Homework
Researching the company before your interview is more than a formality. According to Harvard Business Review, candidates who can connect their skills directly to the company’s mission are far more likely to stand out. Employers consistently expect candidates to understand not just the job description, but also the company’s culture and current challenges.
Reddit discussions from recruiters emphasize that nothing kills momentum faster than a candidate who asks “So, what does your company do?” halfway through the conversation. Instead, dig into the company’s recent news, leadership team, and even Glassdoor reviews. Not only does this help you prepare thoughtful questions, but it also signals genuine interest.
Check out our guide on questions to ask in an interview to take your prep a step further.
2. Do Practice Out Loud
Practicing answers in your head is one thing, but speaking them out loud builds fluency and reduces nervous filler words. A Forbes article highlights that rehearsing out loud improves pacing and confidence, and even helps you refine your tone.
Mock interviews with a friend or mentor are ideal, but even recording yourself on your phone can make a huge difference. Reddit threads are full of candidates who admit they bombed interviews simply because they froze when trying to articulate a story. The key is to practice until your delivery sounds natural, not robotic.
For a structured approach, start with common behavioral prompts like “Tell me about a time you faced a challenge” and “Why do you want this role?” Then refine your stories using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
3. Do Dress Appropriately
First impressions matter, and your outfit sets the tone before you even speak. While workplaces are becoming more casual, it’s safer to slightly overdress than underdress. A study cited by Psychology Today shows that professional attire can boost self-confidence and how others perceive your competence.
If you’re unsure, aim for smart casual: a blazer, button-up shirt, or neat blouse. On Reddit’s career forums, hiring managers often point out that while a candidate’s clothes won’t usually land them the job, being noticeably underdressed can leave a negative impression that’s hard to recover from.
4. Do Listen Carefully
Many candidates get so focused on delivering their prepared answers that they forget to truly listen. Active listening shows emotional intelligence and adaptability, qualities recruiters consistently rank highly in LinkedIn’s Global Talent Trends report.
Listening carefully helps you respond directly to what’s asked rather than launching into a generic answer. It also allows you to pick up on subtle cues about what the interviewer values. Taking a beat before answering shows thoughtfulness and prevents rambling.
5. Do Follow Up After the Interview
Sending a short, personalized thank-you note is still one of the simplest ways to leave a positive final impression. In fact, a Reddit thread confirms that hiring managers appreciate receiving thank-you emails, yet few candidates actually send them.
Keep your message concise: thank them for their time, reiterate your enthusiasm for the role, and briefly highlight how your skills align with the position. For more detailed guidance, check out our article on how to follow up after an interview.
1. Do Your Homework
Researching the company before your interview is more than a formality. According to Harvard Business Review, candidates who can connect their skills directly to the company’s mission are far more likely to stand out. Employers consistently expect candidates to understand not just the job description, but also the company’s culture and current challenges.
Reddit discussions from recruiters emphasize that nothing kills momentum faster than a candidate who asks “So, what does your company do?” halfway through the conversation. Instead, dig into the company’s recent news, leadership team, and even Glassdoor reviews. Not only does this help you prepare thoughtful questions, but it also signals genuine interest.
Check out our guide on questions to ask in an interview to take your prep a step further.
2. Do Practice Out Loud
Practicing answers in your head is one thing, but speaking them out loud builds fluency and reduces nervous filler words. A Forbes article highlights that rehearsing out loud improves pacing and confidence, and even helps you refine your tone.
Mock interviews with a friend or mentor are ideal, but even recording yourself on your phone can make a huge difference. Reddit threads are full of candidates who admit they bombed interviews simply because they froze when trying to articulate a story. The key is to practice until your delivery sounds natural, not robotic.
For a structured approach, start with common behavioral prompts like “Tell me about a time you faced a challenge” and “Why do you want this role?” Then refine your stories using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
3. Do Dress Appropriately
First impressions matter, and your outfit sets the tone before you even speak. While workplaces are becoming more casual, it’s safer to slightly overdress than underdress. A study cited by Psychology Today shows that professional attire can boost self-confidence and how others perceive your competence.
If you’re unsure, aim for smart casual: a blazer, button-up shirt, or neat blouse. On Reddit’s career forums, hiring managers often point out that while a candidate’s clothes won’t usually land them the job, being noticeably underdressed can leave a negative impression that’s hard to recover from.
4. Do Listen Carefully
Many candidates get so focused on delivering their prepared answers that they forget to truly listen. Active listening shows emotional intelligence and adaptability, qualities recruiters consistently rank highly in LinkedIn’s Global Talent Trends report.
Listening carefully helps you respond directly to what’s asked rather than launching into a generic answer. It also allows you to pick up on subtle cues about what the interviewer values. Taking a beat before answering shows thoughtfulness and prevents rambling.
5. Do Follow Up After the Interview
Sending a short, personalized thank-you note is still one of the simplest ways to leave a positive final impression. In fact, a Reddit thread confirms that hiring managers appreciate receiving thank-you emails, yet few candidates actually send them.
Keep your message concise: thank them for their time, reiterate your enthusiasm for the role, and briefly highlight how your skills align with the position. For more detailed guidance, check out our article on how to follow up after an interview.
The Top 5 Don’ts
The Top 5 Don’ts
The Top 5 Don’ts
1. Don’t Be Late
Few mistakes derail an interview faster than poor punctuality. According to Glassdoor research, timeliness is one of the most basic expectations recruiters have. Even arriving five minutes late can set a negative tone that’s hard to reverse.
Plan to arrive 10–15 minutes early, accounting for unexpected delays like traffic or tech issues for virtual interviews. Reddit recruiters often share stories of candidates who casually strolled in late with excuses; those candidates almost never move forward.
2. Don’t Overshare
Being authentic matters, but sharing too much personal information can backfire. An HBR piece on self-disclosure notes that oversharing can make others uncomfortable or distract from your professionalism.
Stick to relevant experiences that highlight your fit for the role. Keep your stories focused and career-related. Avoid venting about past employers or going on tangents about unrelated personal struggles.
3. Don’t Speak Negatively About Past Employers
Badmouthing a previous boss or company is one of the fastest ways to raise red flags. Even if you had a difficult work situation, framing it negatively can make the interviewer wonder if you’ll bring the same attitude to their team.
Instead, focus on what you learned and how you grew. For example, rather than saying “My old manager was terrible,” you could say, “That role taught me how to manage competing priorities under tight deadlines.” This reframing signals resilience and professionalism.
4. Don’t Ramble
Long-winded answers dilute your message and make it harder for the interviewer to follow your point. A CareerBuilder survey noted that concise communication is one of the most valued soft skills across industries.
To avoid rambling, practice structuring responses with clear beginnings, middles, and ends. The STAR method is particularly effective here. Many Reddit users advise timing your answers during practice to stay within 1–2 minutes for most questions.
5. Don’t Forget to Show Enthusiasm
Even the most qualified candidate can fall flat if they seem indifferent. Hiring managers want to see genuine excitement about the role and company. According to Indeed, enthusiasm signals motivation and cultural fit, two things that can tip the balance when skills are similar across candidates.
Smile, make eye contact, and express what excites you about the opportunity. Redditors often share that the candidates who stand out aren’t always the most technically skilled, but those who show clear energy and drive.
1. Don’t Be Late
Few mistakes derail an interview faster than poor punctuality. According to Glassdoor research, timeliness is one of the most basic expectations recruiters have. Even arriving five minutes late can set a negative tone that’s hard to reverse.
Plan to arrive 10–15 minutes early, accounting for unexpected delays like traffic or tech issues for virtual interviews. Reddit recruiters often share stories of candidates who casually strolled in late with excuses; those candidates almost never move forward.
2. Don’t Overshare
Being authentic matters, but sharing too much personal information can backfire. An HBR piece on self-disclosure notes that oversharing can make others uncomfortable or distract from your professionalism.
Stick to relevant experiences that highlight your fit for the role. Keep your stories focused and career-related. Avoid venting about past employers or going on tangents about unrelated personal struggles.
3. Don’t Speak Negatively About Past Employers
Badmouthing a previous boss or company is one of the fastest ways to raise red flags. Even if you had a difficult work situation, framing it negatively can make the interviewer wonder if you’ll bring the same attitude to their team.
Instead, focus on what you learned and how you grew. For example, rather than saying “My old manager was terrible,” you could say, “That role taught me how to manage competing priorities under tight deadlines.” This reframing signals resilience and professionalism.
4. Don’t Ramble
Long-winded answers dilute your message and make it harder for the interviewer to follow your point. A CareerBuilder survey noted that concise communication is one of the most valued soft skills across industries.
To avoid rambling, practice structuring responses with clear beginnings, middles, and ends. The STAR method is particularly effective here. Many Reddit users advise timing your answers during practice to stay within 1–2 minutes for most questions.
5. Don’t Forget to Show Enthusiasm
Even the most qualified candidate can fall flat if they seem indifferent. Hiring managers want to see genuine excitement about the role and company. According to Indeed, enthusiasm signals motivation and cultural fit, two things that can tip the balance when skills are similar across candidates.
Smile, make eye contact, and express what excites you about the opportunity. Redditors often share that the candidates who stand out aren’t always the most technically skilled, but those who show clear energy and drive.
1. Don’t Be Late
Few mistakes derail an interview faster than poor punctuality. According to Glassdoor research, timeliness is one of the most basic expectations recruiters have. Even arriving five minutes late can set a negative tone that’s hard to reverse.
Plan to arrive 10–15 minutes early, accounting for unexpected delays like traffic or tech issues for virtual interviews. Reddit recruiters often share stories of candidates who casually strolled in late with excuses; those candidates almost never move forward.
2. Don’t Overshare
Being authentic matters, but sharing too much personal information can backfire. An HBR piece on self-disclosure notes that oversharing can make others uncomfortable or distract from your professionalism.
Stick to relevant experiences that highlight your fit for the role. Keep your stories focused and career-related. Avoid venting about past employers or going on tangents about unrelated personal struggles.
3. Don’t Speak Negatively About Past Employers
Badmouthing a previous boss or company is one of the fastest ways to raise red flags. Even if you had a difficult work situation, framing it negatively can make the interviewer wonder if you’ll bring the same attitude to their team.
Instead, focus on what you learned and how you grew. For example, rather than saying “My old manager was terrible,” you could say, “That role taught me how to manage competing priorities under tight deadlines.” This reframing signals resilience and professionalism.
4. Don’t Ramble
Long-winded answers dilute your message and make it harder for the interviewer to follow your point. A CareerBuilder survey noted that concise communication is one of the most valued soft skills across industries.
To avoid rambling, practice structuring responses with clear beginnings, middles, and ends. The STAR method is particularly effective here. Many Reddit users advise timing your answers during practice to stay within 1–2 minutes for most questions.
5. Don’t Forget to Show Enthusiasm
Even the most qualified candidate can fall flat if they seem indifferent. Hiring managers want to see genuine excitement about the role and company. According to Indeed, enthusiasm signals motivation and cultural fit, two things that can tip the balance when skills are similar across candidates.
Smile, make eye contact, and express what excites you about the opportunity. Redditors often share that the candidates who stand out aren’t always the most technically skilled, but those who show clear energy and drive.
Final Thoughts
Final Thoughts
Final Thoughts
Interviews are challenging, but mastering the basics of preparation, communication, and etiquette will significantly improve your chances of success. Avoiding common pitfalls while demonstrating genuine enthusiasm and professionalism can set you apart from the competition.
If interview nerves still feel overwhelming, tools like AutoApplier’s AI Interview Buddy can give you real-time guidance during your conversations. It listens in discreetly and suggests tailored responses, helping you stay confident and composed under pressure.
Interviews are challenging, but mastering the basics of preparation, communication, and etiquette will significantly improve your chances of success. Avoiding common pitfalls while demonstrating genuine enthusiasm and professionalism can set you apart from the competition.
If interview nerves still feel overwhelming, tools like AutoApplier’s AI Interview Buddy can give you real-time guidance during your conversations. It listens in discreetly and suggests tailored responses, helping you stay confident and composed under pressure.
Interviews are challenging, but mastering the basics of preparation, communication, and etiquette will significantly improve your chances of success. Avoiding common pitfalls while demonstrating genuine enthusiasm and professionalism can set you apart from the competition.
If interview nerves still feel overwhelming, tools like AutoApplier’s AI Interview Buddy can give you real-time guidance during your conversations. It listens in discreetly and suggests tailored responses, helping you stay confident and composed under pressure.
💡
Ace your next interview with AutoApplier’s AI Interview Buddy – real-time coaching from your phone when you need it most.
Ace your next interview with AutoApplier’s AI Interview Buddy – real-time coaching from your phone when you need it most.
💡
Ace your next interview with AutoApplier’s AI Interview Buddy – real-time coaching from your phone when you need it most.
Latest posts
Discover other pieces of writing in our blog
Want to apply to 1000+ jobs while watching Netflix?
Join 10,000+ job seekers who automated their way to better opportunities
Want to apply to 1000+ jobs while watching Netflix?
Join 10,000+ job seekers who automated their way to better opportunities
Want to apply to 1000+ jobs while watching Netflix?
Join 10,000+ job seekers who automated their way to better opportunities