So, you landed a job interview. Congrats.
It means your resume did the job it was meant to do.
But now comes the part that can make or break your chances: the actual interview.
You want to leave a lasting impression, but the good kind of impression.
Unfortunately, too many great candidates fall into traps that are 100% avoidable.
So, let me tell you what not to do.
In this blog, I’m sharing 10 super relevant and essential tips to help you ace your next job interview. Whether it’s in person or over video.
1. Dress code
No need to show up in a full suit unless you’re interviewing at a law firm or a super corporate gig.
It’s cute if you do, but really, dress like you already work there.
If the office vibe is business casual, aim for a polished version of that.
And when in doubt?
Go just one notch smarter than you think the day-to-day look is.
It shows respect and that you’ve done your homework.
2. Don’t show up late (or too early)
Sounds obvious, right?
But you would be surprised.
Showing up late screams unreliability.
Blaming the rain in the rainy season or the traffic if living in Bangkok is not acceptable.
Showing up too early?
That can make things awkward and stress out your interviewer.
Aim to arrive 10–15 minutes early. No more, no less.
3. Master the handshake
Learn how to shake a person’s hand.
You’ll need to do it at some point in almost every job, whether it’s meeting a client, greeting a colleague, or sealing a deal.
There’s nothing more off-putting than a limp handshake, which is so common in Southeast Asia.
A firm (but not crushing), polite handshake shows confidence, respect, and professionalism.
It’s a small gesture, but it leaves a big impression.
Don’t overthink it. Just practice until it feels natural.
4. Don’t trash talk past employers
Even if your last boss was a nightmare, keep it classy.
No matter how challenging your previous job or boss may have been, resist the urge to badmouth them.
Talking negatively about a former employer can make you come across as bitter, unprofessional, or difficult to work with.
Instead of focusing on the negatives, frame your experience in a way that highlights your resilience and growth.
Talk about what you learned from the situation and how it has helped you become a stronger, more adaptable candidate.
5. Don’t forget to silence your phone
Imagine you are mid-sentence, really going strong, and your phone blares out your “Eye of the Tiger” ringtone.
Just… no. Silence it.
Better yet, turn it off before you even arrive or start your Teams/Zoom interview meeting.
6. Double-check location or video platform
It might sound basic, but it’s crucial to double-check the interview location or the video platform being used.
Showing up at the wrong office or fumbling to download Microsoft Teams five minutes before your interview isn’t a good look.
These days, most first-round interviews happen virtually, so test your tech in advance: camera, mic, internet connection, the whole deal.
Being flustered by avoidable issues can throw off your confidence and waste precious interview time.
A smooth start sets the tone, and you are already ahead of most.
7. Know when to stop talking
Don’t talk yourself out of the job.
Talking too much in an interview is more common than you would think.
Sometimes it’s nerves, sometimes it’s overthinking, and often it’s because the question was broad, so you ramble on hoping the right answer is buried in there somewhere.
A huge common mistake is to continue talking after you have already answered the question.
Some interviewers even leave a pause on purpose to test how you will handle the silence.
The key?
Be confident in your answer, say what you need to say, and then stop.
8. Watch your body language
Crossed arms, no eye contact, poor posture – all these actions send a message, and I’m sure not the one you want.
Whether you’re in person or on video, your body language is silently communicating and sending signals throughout your interview.
You want to come across as engaged, confident, and approachable.
So, sit up straight, smile, and look alive!
Show them you are present and genuinely interested because enthusiasm is just as important as experience.
9. Don’t leave without questions
When they ask, “Do you have any questions for us?” never say no.
It looks like you’re not interested.
Prepare some questions to ask at the interview.
At the first interview, it would be wise to restrict your questions to the details of the job and the organization.
Never ask questions about salary and benefits; they are best left until a second interview or when a job offer is made.
Place the paper with your questions under the resume (on the table) until you start asking questions.
10. Don’t forget to follow up
Always send a thank-you email.
Always.
Even a short note shows you’re thoughtful, organized, and truly interested.
It’s the cherry on top.
Final thoughts
Interviews are weird. They are like first dates with your potential paycheck.
Most interviewers can spot when a candidate has not put in the work to prepare, and it shows.
Whether it’s a lack of knowledge about the company or vague, unfocused answers, it’s obvious.
And when that happens, the interviewer’s interest tends to fade fast.
Being prepared not only boosts your confidence but also signals to the interviewer that you are serious about the opportunity.
