Landing a job interview is exciting—it means your CV caught someone’s eye, and you’re one step closer to your goal. But the interview is where the real challenge begins. It’s your chance to prove that you’re not only qualified on paper but also the right person for the job in real life.
So how do you impress the people sitting on the other side of the table (or screen)? We spoke to experienced hiring managers and HR professionals to gather their top tips on how to shine in your next job interview.
1. Do Your Homework
Why it matters:
Interviewers can instantly tell if you’ve researched the company—or if you’re just winging it. A lack of knowledge shows disinterest and poor preparation.
What hiring managers say:
“Candidates who come in without knowing anything about our products, values, or recent news are hard to take seriously,” says Lydia, a senior HR officer at a marketing agency.
Tips:
- Visit the company’s website.
- Read up on recent projects, blog posts, or news articles.
- Study the job description and think about how your experience matches.
2. Practice, But Don’t Sound Scripted
Why it matters:
Preparation helps you sound confident—but overly rehearsed answers can feel robotic. Hiring managers are looking for authenticity.
What hiring managers say:
“I like when people tell real stories, not just buzzwords. The best interviews feel like a conversation,” shares Kwame, a recruitment consultant in Accra.
Tips:
- Practice answering common interview questions like “Tell me about yourself” and “What’s your biggest weakness?”
- Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure responses.
- Prepare, but allow your personality to shine through.
3. Dress for the Role You Want
Why it matters:
Your appearance is part of the first impression. Even in virtual interviews, how you present yourself speaks volumes.
What hiring managers say:
“It’s not about wearing the most expensive outfit. It’s about being clean, neat, and appropriate for the company culture,” says Linda, a tech company hiring manager.
Tips:
- Opt for smart-casual or formal attire unless told otherwise.
- Keep accessories and makeup minimal and professional.
- If you’re doing a virtual interview, check your background, lighting, and audio in advance.
4. Ask Thoughtful Questions
Why it matters:
When you ask good questions, it shows that you’re genuinely interested in the role and thinking about how you fit into the company.
What hiring managers say:
“Some candidates don’t ask any questions. That tells me they haven’t really thought about the job,” explains James, a hiring lead at a financial services firm.
Tips:
- Ask about team culture, expectations, or growth opportunities.
- Avoid asking only about salary or vacation time unless it’s the final stage.
- Good examples include:
“What does success look like in this role after 6 months?”
“What’s the biggest challenge the team is facing right now?”
5. Be Honest and Self-Aware
Why it matters:
Hiring managers appreciate candidates who are transparent about their skills, gaps, and goals. Pretending to know everything can backfire.
What hiring managers say:
“Confidence is great, but honesty is better. If you don’t know something, say so—and show that you’re willing to learn,” says Yaa, an HR business partner.
Tips:
- If you lack a skill, explain how you’re working to develop it.
- Be clear about what kind of role or culture you’re looking for.
- Own your past mistakes or career shifts—it shows maturity.
6. Follow Up Professionally
Why it matters:
A follow-up message keeps you top of mind and shows appreciation for the interviewer’s time.
What hiring managers say:
“Candidates who send a thank-you email stand out. It’s such a simple thing that so many people forget,” notes Kobby, a hiring manager for a logistics firm.
Tips:
- Send a short thank-you email within 24 hours.
- Mention one or two highlights from the conversation.
- Reaffirm your interest in the role.
Bonus: What NOT to Do in a Job Interview
Here are a few common red flags that hiring managers shared:
- Arriving late without notice
- Speaking negatively about past employers
- Being vague about your accomplishments
- Checking your phone during the interview
- Over-talking or interrupting the interviewer
Final Thoughts
Acing your next job interview is all about preparation, self-awareness, and a genuine connection with the employer. Hiring managers aren’t just looking for qualifications—they’re looking for someone who fits into their team, communicates well, and brings a positive, can-do attitude.
Remember: every interview is a two-way street. It’s not just about getting hired—it’s also about figuring out whether the job is the right fit for you.
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