If the start of the new year heralded a resolution to find a new career, you’re not alone. Job-seeker activity surges by nearly 20% in January, making it one of the busiest months for career transitions.
And we all know what job seeking leads to: Interviews.
Love them or hate them, they’re a critical part of the recruitment process. But while interviews can feel daunting, they’re also a valuable opportunity—for you to showcase your skills, learn more about a potential employer, and determine if the role is the right fit for you.
As Stacey Quilton, WORK180 Chief of Staff, puts it:
“Interviews aren’t just about proving yourself to an employer—they’re also about making sure the role and company align with your goals and values. Approaching them with a mindset of curiosity rather than pressure can make a world of difference.”
Below, talent, recruitment, and hiring experts from across WORK180 Endorsed Employers share their best interview advice and tips for creating positive first impressions.
Making a positive first impression: Top interview advice from hiring and talent professionals
1. Don’t be a robot; let your personality shine.
We often feel like we have to present a completely polished version of ourselves at interviews, but those who come across as personable tend to stand out more. Michelle Smith, Talent Attraction & Engagement Manager at AWE, shares:
“Be yourself. We value the fact that everyone who works at AWE brings unique skills and perspectives to the table. That’s why we focus on your potential, fit with our values, transferable skills, and experience. Our ambition is to create workplaces where we recognize and celebrate differences, encourage diverse contributions, and make our employees feel able to be themselves at work. I encourage candidates to relax and be their authentic selves in their interview.”
Bree White, ANZ Early Careers Recruitment Lead and ANZ I&D Recruitment Lead at Accenture, agrees and adds that being confident isn’t something you should shy away from:
“Bring your authentic self into the conversation. In a world where women are still underrepresented in STEM roles, it’s important to embrace the unique perspectives, strengths, and experiences you bring. Confidence doesn’t mean knowing everything, but it’s about owning your achievements and showing your passion for growth and learning. Believe in yourself—you belong here, and your unique perspective will make a difference.
2. Be honest and open – yes, even if you don’t know the answer.
We all know it’s not uncommon to stretch the truth a little on our resumes, perhaps dialing up our role in a project that got big results. But at the interview, it’s essential to be honest! Daniel Newman, Talent Acquisition Manager with Alstom ANZ, advises:
“Make sure you are open and transparent with those you are interviewing with – if you don’t know something, you are far better off saying that and then relating it to something you know rather than trying to make it up on the fly!”
This one goes hand in hand with being authentic. Jenn Kelly, Talent Acquisition Team Leader at Stantec adds:
“In today’s AI-driven world, it’s increasingly common for people to over-prepare for interviews or memorize great answers that they think we want to hear. Companies are more interested in the type of person you are and the work you have done rather than hearing a “perfect” answer. An honest and genuine conversation is the key to a successful interview!”
3. Research the job role and company.
It might go without saying, but making sure you have a solid understanding of the role, the company, and why you’re applying is a must. Sara Kean, Talent and Sourcing Specialist at TasNetworks, shares:
“To create a positive first impression during an interview, thorough preparation is essential. Research the company and the role extensively, familiarize yourself with the interview style (formal, informal, and behavioral-based questions), and prepare insightful questions to demonstrate your interest and ensure the company aligns with your career goals.”
Preparation is definitely key for Bree White, who says that it’s noticeable when candidates have done their thorough research and are able to connect what they learn back to their own career journey:
“Preparation is key to feeling confident. Research the company and role thoroughly, but also take time to reflect on your journey and how it aligns with the company’s values and mission. Be ready to share specific examples of how you’ve overcome challenges, collaborated effectively, and made an impact, especially in areas where you may have broken barriers.”
One final note on doing your research comes from Rachel Cowell, Head of Recruitment at Softcat, who offers great advice to research who you’ll be meeting with, too:
“Take the time to research the company and who you are meeting. Try to understand from their professional profiles, such as Linkedin, what their career was like, and any hobbies or groups they are part of to use to build rapport. It also may help you feel at ease before meeting them at the interview as you have already familiarised yourself with them to a certain extent.”
4. Don’t hold back on your enthusiasm or what sets you apart.
This ties in nicely with bringing your personality to the interview! It’s about showcasing your ‘why’ for the role and this specific employer. We love how Alex Stone, Head of Talent Acquisition at The Adaptavist Group, positions this as telling your story:
“Share personal experiences that reflect your values and strengths. Rather than trying to fit into a mold, embrace what makes you unique, whether it’s your leadership style, problem-solving abilities, or collaborative approach. Storytelling allows you to demonstrate your skills in a relatable way, showing how you handle challenges, create solutions, and deliver results.”
Expressing enthusiasm lets employers know you’re keen to work for them, and you can clearly articulate why. Olimpia Newlove, Talent Acquisition Consultant NSW & ACT at Multiplex, explains:
“I truly value when candidates express genuine enthusiasm during an interview, particularly when it’s tied to one of our projects or company initiatives. It demonstrates that you’ve taken the time to learn more about us and have found a connection. It’s essential that our workplace is one where you feel inspired and supported. Seeing that enthusiasm from you in the first interview is a great sign and reinforces that we’re on the right track. Do not shy away from expressing that personal touch; it’s as valuable as a technical skillset.”
Fiona Rajandran, Talent Acquisition Partner at Aesop, goes further to share that for a brand like theirs, it’s crucial to demonstrate that deeper level of knowledge for what sets them apart alongside why it matters to you as a potential employee:
“Having a good understanding of how unique we are in the market and any recent industry trends or challenges that are relevant to our brand always stands out for me. This shows genuine enthusiasm for the role they have applied for and proactive thinking. It also creates a deeper conversation, making it a meaningful interaction from the start.”
5. Don’t forget the basics.
Some interview advice is a staple, no matter your career stage! Emma Jones, Talent Acquisition advisor with Powercor, reminds us that it’s important to revisit these sage tips for every interview:
“Small details matter on the day: allow extra time if you’re traveling, know who you’ll meet, where to go when you arrive, introduce yourself at reception a few minutes early, and take that moment to take a few deep breaths and center yourself. Don’t forget to put your phone on silent or turn it off!”
And as always, come prepared with engaging questions to ask. Hollie Divers, Talent Acquisition Lead at WaterNSW, advises:
“Ask a thoughtful question about the company’s values early in the interview. For example, you could say, “I noticed that your company emphasizes [specific value or initiative]—could you share how that is reflected in the day-to-day work environment?” This shows that you’ve done your research, are genuinely interested in the company’s culture, and are thinking beyond just the role itself.”
And Francesca Barnett, Early Careers Talent Manager at Pitcher Partners Melbourne adds one final piece of interview advice that we think is absolutely vital for every interview:
“Know your ‘Why’ – why do you want this role with this company? Make sure you weave your ‘why’, along with your research of the organization, into your interview answers.”
WORK180: Helping you take the interview pressure off
Even with all the top-notch interview advice in the world, interviews can still feel a bit like a pressure cooker. Despite our best efforts (and research), sometimes finding all the information you need to help you make the right decision for your career is challenging.
WORK180 helps to eliminate some of the biggest questions many have about their next employers. Our Endorsed Employer profiles provide current, in-depth information about parental leave, flexible working, career development and progression, gender pay gaps, leadership representation, and more.
Click through the links above to begin exploring our featured Endorsed Employers, and don’t forget to give them a ‘Follow’ to stay in the know on their latest job opportunities.
Good luck with your next interview!
