Job interviews aren’t what they used to be. Many are now done online, but that’s just one of the changes. Today, companies are looking for more than just skills—they want people who match their values and workplace culture. At the same time, job seekers have more power. With talent shortages in many industries, employers are working harder to stand out and attract top candidates.
Because of these changes, it’s more important than ever to be prepared. You must know what to expect, how to present yourself, and what to do afterward to help you stand out from the crowd.
This blog will walk you through a three-part plan on how to nail an interview.
1. Pre-Interview — Set the Stage for Success
Do Your Homework
Before the interview, take time to learn about the company. Visit their website and read about their mission, values and leadership. Check out recent news or updates to see what they’ve been working on. For an idea of what you might expect in terms of workplace culture, read employee reviews on job sites like Glassdoor, or reach out to current or former employees, if possible.
Also, look closely at the job description. Don’t just read the bullet points—try to understand what the company really wants in a candidate. Think about how your skills and experience match what they’re looking for. If you’re working with a Manpower recruiter, they will provide much of the pre-interview information you need—but it doesn’t hurt to dig deeper.
Prepare Your Story
Be ready to talk about yourself in a clear and confident way. Think about your background, your strengths, and why you’re excited about this job. This is your personal story—make it honest and positive.
The interviewer may ask you about specific examples that showcase your abilities on the job. Use the STAR method to prepare an answer:
- Situation: What was happening?
- Task: What needed to be done?
- Action: What did you do?
- Result: What happened because of your actions?
Key Questions to Prepare
You don’t have to wait until the interview to think about questions. Here are a few smart ones to ask:
- “What does success look like in this role?”
- “How does this team measure performance?”
- “What are the biggest challenges facing this department?”
These show you’re thinking ahead and care about doing well.
Red Flags to Watch For
Not every job is a good fit. Watch out for warning signs like:
- A job description that’s vague or keeps changing.
- No clear info about who you’d be working with.
- A confusing or overly long interview process.
If something feels off, trust your instincts and ask questions.
2. During the Interview — Make It a Two-Way Conversation
What to Wear
What you wear will in part depend on what kind of job you’re seeking.
- For office jobs:
- Professional dress means a suit and tie for men or a tailored blazer with matching pants or skirt for women.
- If the dress code is described as “office casual” a jacket is optional: women can go with a sweater, dress pants or skirt and men can wear chinos or dress pants with a dress shirt.
- For a warehouse or factory job:
- Polo shirt or clean, wrinkle-free button-down
- Khakis or dark jeans (no rips or distressing)
- Closed-toe shoes (clean sneakers or work boots are fine)
- Avoid flashy logos or overly casual items like hoodies or shorts
Build Rapport and Read the Room
Start with a smile and a handshake if it feels right. Make eye contact and be polite. If you’re meeting with more than one person, wait to see who offers their hand first.
For video interviews:
- Look at the camera to make eye contact.
- Nod and smile to show you’re listening.
- Keep your background clean and quiet.
- Use good lighting so your face is easy to see.
- Dress professionally—even your pants! You never know if you’ll need to stand up.
Ask Smart, Strategic Questions
Asking questions shows you’re interested and thoughtful. Try these:
- “How does the company support professional development?”
- “Can you describe the team culture?”
- “What’s your favorite part about working here?”
These help you learn more and build a connection.
Evaluate the Interviewer Too
You’re not the only one being judged. Pay attention to how the interviewer acts:
- Are they respectful and paying attention?
- Do they seem to believe in the company’s values?
If something feels off, it’s okay to take note.
Red Flags to Watch For
During the interview, watch out for:
- Interviewers who seem bored or unprepared
- Different answers from different people
- A focus on working long hours without support
These could be signs of a tough work environment.
3. After the Interview — Reflect and Follow Up
Send a Thoughtful Thank-You
After the interview, send a short thank-you message. Mention something specific from the conversation and remind them why you’re excited about the job.
Reflect on the Experience
Think about how the interview went:
- Did the company act in line with what they said they value?
- Did you feel respected and heard?
Your feelings matter—trust them.
Key Follow-Up Questions (if needed)
If you haven’t heard back after a week or so, it’s okay to follow up with your interviewer or recruiter. You can ask:
- “Can you clarify the next steps in the process?”
- “Is there anything else I can provide to support your decision?”
The Wrap-up
Remember that interviews are more than just answering questions—they’re a chance to learn, connect and decide if a job is right for you. By being prepared, paying attention and following up, you can make smart choices and feel confident in your search.
The Benefits of Working with Manpower
If you work with a Manpower recruiter, they’ll help you find a job that fits your skills and goals. They’ll also guide you through the interview process and check in with you before and after to hear how things went. If you run into any issues or spot a red flag, they can step in and help. They also handle any follow-up with the employer—meaning you’re likely to get answers faster than you might on your own.
Once you’re hired, you’ll get access to free training and skill-building through our MyPath program. It’s a great way to grow your career while you work.
Working with Manpower is a win-win.
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