Mastering In-Person Interviews: Essential Tips to Make a Lasting Impression

While video calls have become the norm in recent years, in-person interviews still offer unique opportunities to stand out. Meeting face-to-face allows you to pick up on subtle non-verbal cues, build stronger rapport, and create a personal connection—something that’s often challenging through a screen.

If you’re preparing for an upcoming in-person interview, this guide shares practical tips to help you shine and keep the focus where it belongs: on your skills and experience.

Prepare Ahead of Time: Location, Outfit, and Essentials

Preparation is key to a smooth interview experience:

Scout the Interview Location: Locate the office or meeting venue beforehand and plan your route to avoid any last-minute surprises. Account for traffic, parking, and building security to ensure you arrive on time.

Dress the Part: Choose a professional outfit that makes you feel comfortable and confident. When in doubt, it’s better to overdress than underdress.

Pack Your Essentials: Bring multiple copies of your resume, a notepad and pen for note-taking, and a water bottle. Don’t forget to silence your phone and other devices before the interview begins.

Start with Confidence

Start the interview positively with a warm greeting. A firm handshake paired with a genuine smile can set the tone for a friendly and professional conversation. Your body language throughout the interview matters—maintain good posture, make eye contact, and stay engaged.

If nerves arise, remember to take a deep breath. Pausing to collect your thoughts shows composure and confidence.

Showcase Strong Communication Skills

Good communication skills are crucial in person.

Active Listening: Show you’re paying attention by nodding appropriately and responding thoughtfully.

Balanced Eye Contact: In panel interviews, try to engage with all interviewers instead of focusing on just one person.

Preparedness: Research the role, team, and company thoroughly before your interview. Come equipped with thoughtful questions to demonstrate your enthusiasm and initiative. Refer to specific details in the job description to demonstrate your preparation. Read our blog about answering interview questions to help.

Follow Up to Reinforce Your Interest

After the interview, don’t forget to send a personalized thank-you email within 24 hours. This simple step reinforces your appreciation for the opportunity and keeps you top of mind. If your interview was a panel or with more than one person, send each person a note.

Remember This

In-person interviews offer a valuable chance to connect beyond resumes and digital screens. With the right preparation and mindset, you can make a memorable impression that highlights your qualifications and personality.

Are you preparing for a video interview as well? Here are tips to help you prepare for video interviews.

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