Spectrum’s Comprehensive Interview Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive job interview guide, where we’ll equip you with the essential tools and techniques to confidently conquer any interview. Whether you’re interviewing in person, by phone, or on video, preparation is key. This comprehensive interview guide will help you feel confident and polished in any interview format. 

Before the Interview 

Research the company, the people, and the position 

Visit the company website, read the job description, and review interviewer profiles on LinkedIn if available. Knowing the company’s mission and your interviewers’ backgrounds can help you connect during the conversation. 

Prepare a few smart questions 

Crafting thoughtful questions will impress your potential employers and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.  Good examples include: 

• What challenges can I expect in this role? 

• How is success measured? 

• How does this position add value to the company? 

• Does your company implement ideas that come from someone outside the leadership team? 

• What is the team dynamic like? 

• How might we collaborate in this role? 

Gather your materials 

Your resume should already be tailored to the job you’re interviewing for, and hopefully, you’re very familiar with it. Have a few copies of your resume ready (or a digital version open for virtual interviews), along with a notebook that includes reminders of key items or questions you want to talk about. Try not to focus on your notes while interviewing but have them available to glance at if needed. Have a pen handy to jot something down when appropriate. 

Test your tech 

If it’s a video or phone interview, download any necessary software (Teams, Zoom, etc.), check your internet connection, camera, and microphone in advance. Use a quiet, distraction-free space with a clean background and good lighting. If possible, use a laptop or PC for video interviews; if you need to use a phone, try propping it against something instead of holding it in your hand. Make sure your devices are charged and unlikely to drop the call and turn off any alerts or unnecessary devices. 

During the Interview 

Use the STAR method when asked about performance

• Situation: Briefly explain the challenge you were faced with 

• Task: Describe your responsibility in addressing the situation 

• Action: Share the steps you took 

• Result: Explain the outcome 

Be ready to field follow-up questions like, “What were you most proud of?” and “What would you have done differently?” 

Show your personality 

Be polite, engaged, friendly, and authentic. You’ll be working with these people, so let them know you’re someone they’d enjoy being around. Answer questions confidently, providing specific examples to illustrate your accomplishments. Remember, confidence is cool—overconfidence isn’t. Let them see who you are beyond the resume. 

Pause before responding 

A moment to think leads to clearer, more focused answers. Aim for specific answers without rambling. Don’t rush and don’t over-share—less is more. 

Ask thoughtful questions 

There will be natural opportunities to ask questions during the conversation, if there isn’t then save the question for the end. Keep the questions appropriate— asking “When do I start?” may be memorable in the wrong way. 

Don’t speak negatively about former employers 

Even if they deserve it. Even if the world deserves to know the truth. Even if they were clearly in the wrong. This is one of the top ways qualified candidates blow it. If asked why you’re leaving, keep it objective, polished, and professional.  

Avoid inappropriate topics

Steer clear of sensitive or illegal interview questions. These include: race, color, national origin, religion, politics, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy status, disabilities, age, genetic/medical information, marital status, and number of children. Many of these are illegal to ask under EEOC guidelines. If one of these topics comes up, answer briefly and redirect politely. Often, there’s no ill intent—just poor phrasing. 

Interview Etiquette 

Be early

Arrive at the location at least 10 minutes before your interview and enter the building 5-10 minutes early. For phone or video interviews, be ready to join at least 5 minutes beforehand. 

Look the part 

Even for video calls, present yourself as you would in person—well-groomed, clean, and appropriately dressed. Avoid strong fragrances. Most in-person interviews suggest business casual attire— wear closed toed shoes in the event of a facilities tour. 

Watch your body language

Sit up straight, make eye contact, speak clearly, and stay engaged. Even over the phone, people can tell if you’re disengaged—and they can hear your smile. During video calls, try to focus on the camera lens rather than yourself, especially while speaking. 

Send a thank-you

Always thank your interviewers for their time and consideration. A thoughtful follow-up note or email is often appreciated. You can review our article on following up after an interview for guidance. If you’re working with Spectrum, let us know how it went—we’re rooting for you! 

Job seekers aren’t the only ones who can benefit from a comprehensive interview guide! We have some interview tips for hiring managers too. Whether you’re trying to identify, recruit, interview, or retain top talent—we’ve got your back.