The Interview: How to Show Up, Stand Out and Follow Up

The Job Seeker Series - Part 4

Over the past few posts in this Job Seeker Series, we’ve explored everything from finding your ‘why’ to approaching employers.This final piece focuses on what happens in the interview itself — and what to do afterwards to leave a strong impression.

First Impressions & Body Language

Seven seconds. That’s all it takes for someone to start forming an impression of you. Before you even speak, your posture, tone of voice, and energy are already being read.

Psychologist Albert Mehrabian’s 7–38–55 rule reminds us:

• 7% of meaning comes from words

• 38% comes from tone of voice

• 55% comes from body language

  
  

Tips for showing up confidently:

• Stand tall or sit back in your chair, feet planted on the ground

• Open your shoulders and take a deep breath before speaking

• Use purposeful gestures and animated facial expressions

• Make eye contact with each interviewer

• Smile — it immediately signals warmth and confidence

  
  

Mirror, Match, and Lead (Vinh Giang) is a subtle technique to build rapport:

• Mirror the other person’s posture or energy

• Once the connection is established, gradually lead the tone of the conversation

  
  

Finally, a quick Power Pose (Amy Cuddy) before your interview can help shift your mindset. Stand in an open, expansive posture for 2 minutes — it primes you for confidence and presence.

Building Connection in the Interview

Connection is everything. Interviews aren’t about perfection; they’re about engagement.

• Be present and show interest in the conversation

• Speak with intention, not just to fill space

• Warm up your voice beforehand with a few deep breaths or tongue twisters

• If you don’t know an answer, be honest — authenticity is valued far more than a rehearsed response

  
  

Small gestures make a big difference: nod, smile, and match the energy in the room to show you are listening and engaged.

Online Interviews & Video Screens

Virtual interviews can feel strange because you are often speaking to a camera, not a person.

Tips for success:

• Position your camera at eye level and check the lighting

• Warm up by speaking out loud before you record

• For pre-recorded video screens, prepare 3–6 bullet points per question and keep them visible

• Look directly at the camera to create a sense of eye contact

• Remember: perfection isn’t required; connection is

  
  

How to Finish Strong & Follow Up

At the end of every interview, you’ll hear:“Do you have any questions for us?”

Always answer yes. Thoughtful questions show curiosity and interest.

Examples:

• What would a typical day look like in this role?

• What is your favourite part about working here?

• What are the next steps in the hiring process?

  
  

Ask about the timeline for decisions — this gives you a natural reason to follow up a few days later. A brief email or phone call can leave a strong, personal impression:

“Thank you again for the opportunity to interview. I enjoyed learning more about the role and your team, and I’m very excited about the possibility of contributing.”

Final Thoughts

Interviews are not about delivering perfect answers. They are about connection — through your voice, presence, and engagement.

If you’ve made it to the interview stage, remember:You were asked to be there; you deserve to be there.

Thank you for following this Job Seeker Series. If you would like support preparing for an interview or building confidence as a communicator, I would love to help — Let’s chat

Ashleigh