Knowing how to make a good impression at a job interview can boost your career success!

As a job seeker, it's important to impress interviewers if you want to be considered for an open position you're seeking. After all, competition is fierce, and it's all too easy to get lost in a crowd of rival candidates. That's why it's essential to learn how to make a good impression at a job interview – and improve your odds of landing the job you need.

The good news is that it is possible to learn how to make a good first impression at a job interview. In this article, we'll provide some of the most important tips you need to know to learn how to make a positive impression at your next job interview.

1.     Be prepared

If you want to make a great first impression in your interview, then you need to begin with the right kind of interview preparation. Start by researching the company to learn as much as you can about its operations, culture, and position in the industry. You should also make sure that you fully understand the position you're seeking, its responsibilities, and the core job qualifications. You should research:

  • The job description

  • Company website

  • Social media accounts

  • Recent news about the company and industry

This research will help you be more confident when you're answering questions about why you want the job, how you'll fit within the company culture, and similar interview queries. Your ability to answer those questions will help demonstrate that you've taken the time to learn about the company and the role you're seeking.

2.     Practice your responses

You should also spend time crafting answers to some of the most common interview questions and practicing those responses in front of a mirror or with a friend, relative, or interview coach. That practice can help ensure that you are as prepared as possible for any topic that might come up during the interview. The more you prepare and practice for your interview, the more confident you'll feel and the better chance you'll have of leaving a positive impression that leads to a lucrative job offer.

3.     Focus on your ability to add value

Many job seekers focus on being personable and likable during their interviews. While there's nothing wrong with presenting yourself in a pleasant manner, that should never be your primary focus. Remember, the employer is not looking for a new friend; they're looking for a qualified and competent candidate who can add value to their bottom line.

Your goal should be to focus on your core competencies, experience, and achievements. Make sure your responses highlight your unique value proposition as a potential employee. One way to achieve that goal is to use the STAR method for your interview responses. This structured approach to crafting your answers will help you focus on measurable achievements that illustrate your ability to add value to the job.

Related reading: How to Answer “What Can You Bring to the Company?”

4.     Be confident and composed

One of the more difficult parts of interviewing is walking into the room with confidence. It's important to calm your nerves and project as much confidence as possible. This is an essential part of learning how to make a good impression at a job interview. Just make sure that you're confident and not arrogant.

Not sure you can shake the jitters? Try these tricks:

  • Remember that you've been invited to this interview. You've already passed the first and most difficult part, which is landing an interview.

  • Get lots of rest the night before any interview. If you're tired, you'll be more likely to be nervous and anxious.

  • Find some way to alleviate stress. Go to the gym, meditate, take a long walk, or sing your favorite song in the car. It's important to find a way to release your nervous energy.

5.     Differentiate yourself from the competition

These days, companies receive hundreds of job applications. That sea of competition can make it difficult for you to stand out from the other candidates. However, there are some tried and true tips that can help you learn how to make a good impression at a job interview by differentiating yourself from your rivals.

Try to form a connection with your interviewer. Do you have common interests, similar job experiences, or shared background details? These types of connections can help you stand out in the interviewer's mind long after you leave the room.

Is there a unique skill or experience that you can highlight in your interview? Perhaps there's a specific skill you possess that other candidates may lack. Or maybe you've had experience with a freelancing side gig that bolsters your qualifications.

6.     Appearance matters!

Naturally, you should also focus on your appearance – the clothes you wear, your basic grooming, and the way you carry yourself during the interview. The first impression you make when you walk into the room will have a big impact on how you're perceived. If your appearance sends the wrong signals, you'll be hard-pressed to counter that impression.

Fortunately, we've got some great articles to help you with your choice of attire, including advice about:

7.     Be prepared for the unexpected

Finally, make sure that your mindset is clear and prepared for anything that might come your way. Interviews can be unpredictable, so it's important to be ready for any surprises. Flirty interviewers, employers who ask inappropriate personal questions, and other unexpected occurrences can easily throw you off your game if you're not prepared to deal with those challenges. Just remain calm, composed, and professional at all times.

Ace your job interview

Learning how to make a good impression at a job interview can be one of the best things you do to bolster your job search prospects. After all, even the most compelling resume can only take you so far; at some point in the process, you'll need to ace a job interview and sell yourself as the best candidate for the job. By following the tips and advice in this guide, you should be well on your way to accomplishing that goal!

Still feeling nervous about your interview? Not sure how to make a good impression at a job interview? Our TopInterview coaches can help!

This article was originally written by Carson Kohler. It was updated in January 2025 by Ken Chase.

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