Interview Like a Pro: Tips to Make a Good Impression

Dress for success

First impressions matter! Your attire plays a key role in how you're perceived, so choose professional clothing that reflects the company culture and the role you're applying for. If you're unsure of the dress code, it's always better to lean toward more formal attire. Even in virtual interviews, dressing appropriately shows professionalism and respect for the opportunity—first impressions count, no matter the setting. Think about how you want to be perceived and dress in a way that conveys confidence and seriousness about the opportunity. 

Do your homework on the company

Before the interview, invest time in understanding the company’s mission, values, and the industry it operates in. Take a close look at the company’s website, read up on recent news articles or press releases, and review their social media channels to get a sense of their current initiatives and culture. If you're applying to a utility company like Liberty, understanding the services we provide, such as electric, gas, water, and the impact we have on local communities is critical. This will allow you to frame your answers in a way that aligns with the company’s goals and demonstrates your genuine interest. Researching also helps you tailor your responses to show how your background and skills align with the organization’s needs and vision. 

Prepare thoughtful questions

An interview is a two-way street! While your responses are important, the questions you ask also leave a strong impression. Prepare insightful questions about the role, team, and the company that go beyond the basic job details. Ask about the company's culture, growth opportunities, and what success in the role looks like. This shows you're engaged, thoughtful, and seriously considering how you can contribute to the team. Avoid generic questions that can be easily answered through research—make your questions count! 

Review the job description

Take time to carefully review the job description to fully understand the responsibilities and required qualifications. Highlight the key skills and experiences you have that match the role and think about how to position your background as the solution to the company’s needs. Tailoring your answers to reflect the most relevant aspects of your experience will help you stand out as a strong candidate. 

Be punctual

Arriving on time for an interview shows professionalism and respect for the interviewer’s time. Aim to arrive a few minutes early if the interview is in person. If it’s a virtual interview, log in ahead of time to ensure everything is set up properly and you’re ready to go when the interview begins. Punctuality is a simple yet important way to start the interview on the right foot. 

Prepare your virtual environment

If you're interviewing remotely, a smooth, distraction-free experience is essential. Here are some tips to help you prepare: 

• Test your tech: Ensure your camera, microphone, and internet connection are working well before the interview. 

• Choose a quiet, well-lit space: Make sure there are no distractions, and the background is neat and professional. If needed, use a virtual background that’s simple and doesn’t distract from the conversation. 

• Check your lighting: Natural light is great, but if that’s not possible, use a lamp to ensure your face is well-lit and easy to see on camera. 

Stay focused and prepared

Whether you’re interviewing in person or virtually, minimize distractions to stay focused on the conversation. Silence your phone and store it away so you’re not interrupted. If you're in person, bring printed copies of your resume for the interviewer, even if you’ve already submitted it online. For virtual interviews, keep a PDF of your resume on hand in case you need to refer to it or send it over. 

Practice good body language

Your body language communicates just as much as your words. Maintain good posture, make eye contact, and smile to show you’re engaged and confident. Avoid fidgeting, crossing your arms, or appearing distracted—these habits can signal disinterest or nervousness. Show that you’re actively listening and engaged by nodding occasionally and responding thoughtfully to what the interviewer says. 

Nail the “tell me about yourself” question

The “Tell me about yourself” question is often one of the first you’ll be asked, and it’s your chance to start the conversation on the right foot. Keep your answer concise but relevant, focusing on your background, skills, and experiences that directly relate to the role. Highlight your accomplishments and career aspirations and explain why you’re excited about this particular opportunity. This is the time to show your enthusiasm and how your journey has led you to this moment. 

Relax – it’s a two-way conversation

It’s easy to get nervous, but remember that an interview is a conversation, not a test. While the company is evaluating your fit for the role, you’re also assessing whether the company and team are the right fit for you. Approach the conversation with confidence and curiosity. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about the company’s culture, work environment, and team dynamics. Authenticity and a genuine interest in the company’s values and culture will help you make a positive, lasting impression. 

Use the STAR method

When answering behavioral questions, structure your answers using the STAR method: 

• Situation: Describe the challenge you faced or situation you encountered. 

• Task: Explain your role and responsibility in the situation. 

• Action: Detail the steps you took to address the issue or accomplish the task. 

• Result: Share the outcome of your actions, including what you learned or achieved. 

The STAR method helps you provide clear, concise, and focused answers that showcase your problem-solving and decision-making skills. 

 

By following these tips, you’ll set yourself up for a successful interview and leave a positive impression on the hiring team. Good luck! 

 

Ready to take the next step in your career? Explore open positions and start your application today: Liberty Careers Page   

 

Disclaimer: The tips provided in this blog post are general suggestions intended to help job seekers prepare for interviews. Following these recommendations does not guarantee a positive interview outcome or employment with Liberty.