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Not sure where to start?  This guide will assist you in creating a polished resume and gaining the skills needed to write an effective cover letter.

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Send an individual thank you card or email to everyone present within 24 hours of the interview – this demonstrates interest, enthusiasm, and attention to detail

Keep it short, simple, and sincere – confirm your interest, remind of your qualifications, sum up what you gained from the meeting, and thank the interviewer for taking time out of their schedule

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What Is LinkedIn and Why You Should Be on It

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In today’s digital-first professional landscape, one question remains crucial for job seekers, career changers, students, and seasoned professionals alike: What is LinkedIn and why should you be on it? LinkedIn is more than just an online résumé or a networking site—it’s a dynamic professional netwo

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Relax and be yourself

Make eye contact with interviewer

Be enthusiastic and positive, and express interest in the organization

Use proper grammar and diction, and select your words carefully; avoid “um” and “like”

Be assertive, not aggressive

Take your time – answer questions fully and back them up with examples

Highlight your strengths and qualifications; put a positive spin on anything that may sound negative

Ask questions about the position and organization; avoid questions that you could have already researched

Ask what the next steps will be, and when you can expect to hear back from the employer

At the end of the interview, ask for business cards from everyone that was present

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Suggestions for the Undecided Student -Aug 2026

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Prepare the same way as for an in-person interview

Test your technology:  camera, microphone, and wi-fi.

Limit distractions:  use a quiet space that is clean and looks professional; be sure to let others know the time of the interview and to stay away from area; remove pets, if possible

Practice interviewing in an empty Zoom room, and get comfortable seeing yourself on camera

Make sure that YOUR name is displayed, not a family member’s name

Adjust the lighting and center yourself on the computer screen

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Resume - bring at least 5 copies; be sure to keep them wrinkle free and easily accessible in a separate folder

Pen and paper - take notes on questions or insights on the company; refer to them when following up with your thank you notes

2 to 3 pre-written, thoughtful questions to ask about the position or organization

A list of references who can speak to your professional skills and achievements; like your resume, bring at least 5 copies

A bag, briefcase, or portfolio to neatly store all of your items

Directions on how to get to the interview, including where to park, where to report, and the name of the person you will be meeting

Manners and a smile - treat everyone that you meet with respect; be warm and friendly in all interactions

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For a review of your resume or additional assistance in preparing for an interview, please reach out to Career Services at careerservices@hacc.edu.

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Fall 2021 classes will be taught through in-person instruction, remote instruction and virtual learning, and select student services will be available on campus in the fall. Students enrolled in on-campus classes will receive detailed information one week before classes begin. Please note that HACC campus grounds are now open to the public. However, HACC buildings are only open to students and employees in on-campus classes and those approved for select student services. Visit hacc.edu/Coronavirus for more information.

HACC's Harrisburg Campus will be included as a COVID-19 testing site Sept. 14-18 and Sept 21-25, from 9 a.m.- 6 p.m. Please note: The Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) is managing the entire process with AMI Testing. This is not a HACC event. Testing is open to the general public. Thank you!

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Fall 2021 classes will be taught through in-person instruction, remote instruction and virtual learning, and select student services will be available on campus in the fall. Students enrolled in on-campus classes will receive detailed information one week before classes begin. Please note that HACC campus grounds are now open to the public.

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The job market has changed more in the last three years than in the previous twenty.

In 2020, a "professional resume" meant having a clean layout and no typos. In 2026, a professional resume must satisfy two very different audiences:

1. The Robot: The Applicant Tracking System (ATS) that scans your text for keywords.

2. The Human: The busy recruiter who spends an average of 6 to 8 seconds deciding if you are worth an interview.

If you are using the same template you used five years ago, you are likely being archived before a human ever sees your name.

This is your tactical guide to building a resume that looks professional, beats the bots, and gets you hired in the modern North American market.

Boring is Beautiful

The biggest mistake candidates make in 2026 is trying to be "creative" with design. Unless you are applying for a Graphic Design role, do not use multi-column Canva templates with photos, icons, and skill bars.

Why?

The ATS can't read them: Robots get confused by columns and graphics. They might parse your "Skills" section as your "Education," leading to an automatic rejection.

Recruiters hate them: They want standard formatting so they can find the information quickly.

The Golden Rule: A professional resume in 2026 is a single-column, text-based document. It prioritizes readability over design.

The "North American" Rules (Critical for International Applicants)

If you are applying for jobs in the USA or Canada, the rules are strictly different from Europe, Asia, or Africa. Violating these "unwritten rules" marks you as an outsider immediately.

1. The "No Photo" Policy

In North America, labor laws regarding discrimination are incredibly strict. To protect themselves from lawsuits based on race, age, or appearance, many HR departments automatically discard resumes containing headshots.

Action: Delete your photo. Let your experience speak for itself.

2. The Personal Data Purge

Recruiters do not want to know-and often legally cannot ask-about your personal details.

Remove: Date of Birth, Marital Status, Religion, Gender, Full Street Address.

Keep: Name, Phone Number, Email, LinkedIn URL, and City/State (e.g., "Toronto, ON").

The "F-Pattern" Layout strategy

Eye-tracking studies show that recruiters read resumes in an "F-Pattern":

1. They scan the Top Left (Header/Summary).

2. They scan Across the middle (Current Role).

3. They scan down the Left Margin (Titles/Dates).

You must place your most valuable information in these "hot zones."

Section 1: The Header (The Golden Triangle)

Your top-left corner is prime real estate. Don't waste it on a giant logo.

Format: Name (Large) | Target Job Title | Key Hard Skills.

Example: "Jane Doe | Senior Data Analyst | SQL, Python, Tableau"

Section 2: The Summary (The Hook)

Objectives ("Looking for a challenging role...") are dead. Use a Professional Summary. This is your "Elevator Pitch." In 3 lines, summarize your years of experience, your biggest achievement, and your industry focus.

Example: "Performance-driven Marketing Manager with 7+ years of experience in FinTech. Successfully managed $500k+ ad budgets and increased ROAS by 30% in 2025. Expert in SEO, PPC, and data-driven strategy."

How to Write Bullet Points: The "XYZ" Formula

This is where 90% of resumes fail. Most people list Duties.

Recruiters don't care what you were supposed to do. They care about what you achieved.
Use the Google "XYZ" Formula:
The "Before and After" Transformation:

Before (Duty): "Responsible for customer service."

After (Outcome): "Improved customer satisfaction scores by 15% (X) within 6 months (Y) by implementing a new Zendesk ticketing workflow (Z)."

Before (Duty): "Worked on class project."

After (Outcome): "Led a team of 4 to conduct market analysis on FMCG trends, analyzing 500+ data points to recommend a pricing adjustment." (Read more on how to frame academic work in our guide on Turning Class Projects into Work Experience)

Beating the ATS

In 2026, you cannot hide your technical skills inside your paragraphs. The ATS might miss them. Create a dedicated "Technical Skills" section just below your Summary or at the bottom of the page.

Group them logically so the recruiter can scan them:

Languages: JavaScript, Python, C++.

Tools: Jira, Salesforce, HubSpot, Asana.

Certifications: PMP, Google Data Analytics.

AI Tools: Prompt Engineering, Midjourney. (Unsure about listing AI? Read: Should you list ChatGPT skills on your resume?)

Advanced Tactics for 2026

1. Handling Resume Gaps

Post-2020, employment gaps are normalized. Do not try to hide them. If you took time off for caregiving, travel, or upskilling, list it like a job.

2023 - 2024: Planned Career Sabbatical

Traveled to 3 continents; completed intensive Full Stack Development bootcamp.

Developed soft skills in adaptability and cross-cultural communication.

2. File Format: PDF vs. Word

Always submit a PDF unless the application explicitly demands a Word Doc. Word documents can suffer from formatting errors depending on the version the recruiter is using. A PDF locks your formatting in place.

3. Length: The "Page Count" Myth

0-7 Years Experience: 1 Page. Period. You do not need 2 pages to say you worked at a coffee shop and did one internship. Edit ruthlessly.

7+ Years Experience: 2 Pages is acceptable.

Academic/Medical Fields: A CV can be longer (3+ pages), but for corporate roles, brevity is power.

Common Mistakes to Audit Right Now

Before you hit "Send," check your resume for these instant deal-breakers:

1. "References Available Upon Request": Delete this. It is implied. You are wasting valuable space.

2. Inconsistent Dates: Choose a format (e.g., "Jan 2024" or "01/2024") and stick to it. Don't mix them.

3. Buzzword Soup: Avoid empty words like "Hard worker," "Synergy," or "Team player." Show us you are a team player by describing a project where you led a team.

4. Broken Hyperlinks: If you link to your Portfolio or LinkedIn, click it to make sure it works.

It's Not About You, It's About Them

The harsh truth of the job search is that your resume is not a biography of your life. It is a marketing flyer selling a product. That product is You.

Does your flyer clearly state the value proposition? Does it show the ROI (Return on Investment)? Is it easy to read?

By following these 2026 standards, clean formatting, outcome-based bullets, and ATS optimization, you move from the "Discard" pile to the "Interview" pile.

Ready to test your new resume? Start applying with confidence. If you feel stuck on the salary question next, check out our guide on How to Negotiate a Salary.
Need a personalized audit? Log in to Anutio today to match your new resume against live job descriptions.

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How to Make Your Resume Look Professional: The 2026 Guide - Blog

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Stop using outdated resume templates. In 2026, recruiters use AI and F-pattern scanning to filter candidates. Here is the definitive Anutio guide to formatting, ATS optimization, and North American standards.

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20 Resume Dos and Don’ts for Job Seekers in 2026

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Resume dos and don’ts can help you sidestep errors and focus on what matters. Learn what common resume mistakes to avoid and what you can do instead.

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Apply these resume tips for your 2026 job search to write the best resume with relevant details and make it stand out.

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How to Follow Up After an Interview if You’re Still Waiting for Answers | The Muse

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Learn how to follow up after an interview so that you actually hear back from the employer. Plus, some follow-up email examples.

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What skills and language are people in your field including on their resumes? Take a peak at resume examples for ideas!

Please note:  We encourage you NOT to use resume templates, but simply use these examples as guides. Create your own resume using Word.

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Knowing how to make a good impression at a job interview can boost your career success!

As a job seeker, it's important to impress interviewers if you want to be considered for an open position you're seeking. After all, competition is fierce, and it's all too easy to get lost in a crowd of rival candidates. That's why it's essential to learn how to make a good impression at a job interview - and improve your odds of landing the job you need.

The good news is that it is possible to learn how to make a good first impression at a job interview. In this article, we'll provide some of the most important tips you need to know to learn how to make a positive impression at your next job interview.

1. Be prepared

If you want to make a great first impression in your interview, then you need to begin with the right kind of interview preparation. Start by researching the company to learn as much as you can about its operations, culture, and position in the industry. You should also make sure that you fully understand the position you're seeking, its responsibilities, and the core job qualifications. You should research:

This research will help you be more confident when you're answering questions about why you want the job, how you'll fit within the company culture, and similar interview queries. Your ability to answer those questions will help demonstrate that you've taken the time to learn about the company and the role you're seeking.

2. Practice your responses

You should also spend time crafting answers to some of the most common interview questions and practicing those responses in front of a mirror or with a friend, relative, or interview coach. That practice can help ensure that you are as prepared as possible for any topic that might come up during the interview. The more you prepare and practice for your interview, the more confident you'll feel and the better chance you'll have of leaving a positive impression that leads to a lucrative job offer.

3. Focus on your ability to add value

Many job seekers focus on being personable and likable during their interviews. While there's nothing wrong with presenting yourself in a pleasant manner, that should never be your primary focus. Remember, the employer is not looking for a new friend; they're looking for a qualified and competent candidate who can add value to their bottom line.

Your goal should be to focus on your core competencies, experience, and achievements. Make sure your responses highlight your unique value proposition as a potential employee. One way to achieve that goal is to use the STAR method for your interview responses. This structured approach to crafting your answers will help you focus on measurable achievements that illustrate your ability to add value to the job.
Related reading: How to Answer "What Can You Bring to the Company?"
4. Be confident and composed

One of the more difficult parts of interviewing is walking into the room with confidence. It's important to calm your nerves and project as much confidence as possible. This is an essential part of learning how to make a good impression at a job interview. Just make sure that you're confident and not arrogant.

Not sure you can shake the jitters? Try these tricks:

Remember that you've been invited to this interview. You've already passed the first and most difficult part, which is landing an interview.

Get lots of rest the night before any interview. If you're tired, you'll be more likely to be nervous and anxious.

Find some way to alleviate stress. Go to the gym, meditate, take a long walk, or sing your favorite song in the car. It's important to find a way to release your nervous energy.

5. Differentiate yourself from the competition

These days, companies receive hundreds of job applications. That sea of competition can make it difficult for you to stand out from the other candidates. However, there are some tried and true tips that can help you learn how to make a good impression at a job interview by differentiating yourself from your rivals.

Try to form a connection with your interviewer. Do you have common interests, similar job experiences, or shared background details? These types of connections can help you stand out in the interviewer's mind long after you leave the room.

Is there a unique skill or experience that you can highlight in your interview? Perhaps there's a specific skill you possess that other candidates may lack. Or maybe you've had experience with a freelancing side gig that bolsters your qualifications.

6. Appearance matters!

Naturally, you should also focus on your appearance - the clothes you wear, your basic grooming, and the way you carry yourself during the interview. The first impression you make when you walk into the room will have a big impact on how you're perceived. If your appearance sends the wrong signals, you'll be hard-pressed to counter that impression.

Fortunately, we've got some great articles to help you with your choice of attire, including advice about:

7. Be prepared for the unexpected

Finally, make sure that your mindset is clear and prepared for anything that might come your way. Interviews can be unpredictable, so it's important to be ready for any surprises. Flirty interviewers, employers who ask inappropriate personal questions, and other unexpected occurrences can easily throw you off your game if you're not prepared to deal with those challenges. Just remain calm, composed, and professional at all times.

Ace your job interview
Still feeling nervous about your interview? Not sure how to make a good impression at a job interview? Our This article was originally written by Carson Kohler. It was updated in January 2025 by . TopInterview coaches can help!
Learning how to make a good impression at a job interview can be one of the best things you do to bolster your job search prospects. After all, even the most compelling resume can only take you so far; at some point in the process, you'll need to ace a job interview and sell yourself as the best candidate for the job. By following the tips and advice in this guide, you should be well on your way to accomplishing that goal!

Recommended Reading:

Related Articles:

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5 Ways to Make a Positive and Lasting Impression in a Job Interview

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Are your interviews yielding positive job search results? We have the tips you need to learn how to make a good impression at a job interview.

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Anecdotes about your achievements are music to a hiring manager's ears.

Daniel Bortz, Monster contributor

Impressing a hiring manager is no easy feat. In addition to getting a handle on your nerves, you have to figure out what to say in a job interview that will make you stand out from the other candidates. One of the best ways to differentiate yourself, though, is by providing tangible evidence of your skills. Telling stories makes for a good interview. Examples include how you solved a problem, showed initiative, and increased productivity.

You see, hiring managers hear generic statements like these over and over again:

"I have strong communication skills."

"I'm self-motivated."

"I'm good at managing my time."

"I have excellent leadership qualities."

"I work well with others."

Unfortunately, broad declarations won't blow an interviewer away, says Todd Cherches, CEO and co-founder of leadership consulting firm BigBlueGumball. A better approach is to offer specific examples of your accomplishments from past jobs that back up your skills.

Good interview examples demonstrate what you're capable of. "[It] helps the interviewer visualize what you could do for their company," says Dalena Bradley, job interview coach and career-marketing coach. The thinking is that if you did something great once, you can re-create the success elsewhere.

To help you prepare for your next job interview, we asked Bradley to provide a few examples of what to say in a job interview that would impress any hiring manager. You can use them as inspiration when preparing your own anecdotes, which Cherches says, is an absolute must. "It's very hard to retrieve anecdotes in the moment, which is why you have to craft them in advance," he says.

Focus on results

BAD: "I'm an excellent communicator."

GOOD: "I'm a strong communicator. In my last role, to improve communication in my department, I initiated weekly standup meetings where no topic was off limits. It became a vehicle for eliminating redundancies, promoting best practices, and improving overall morale. It became a more fun place to work where people felt safe to share their points of view."

Quantify your achievements

BAD: "I'm a self-starter."

GOOD: "I'm highly self-motivated. In fact, recently our budgeting system didn't pass muster for the sophisticated reporting we needed to do. I took the initiative to do some research and found an alternative that was 25% cheaper that integrated with our other software and could be implemented within six weeks. Now we can produce quick turnaround reports in whatever form our customers need."

Show how your brain works

BAD: "I have good time-management skills."

GOOD: "I'm an exceptional time manager. My job requires staying on top of many moving parts, so I routinely plan on a monthly, weekly, and daily basis. I use project management software to ensure our team is tracking to meet deadlines as promised. On a personal level, at the end of every day, I invest 10 minutes in planning the next day, blocking and scheduling time to meet my top two to three priorities for the day."

Look at the big picture

BAD: "I'm a great leader."

GOOD: "I'm a transparent communicator, team motivator, and always keep the big picture in mind. I like to hire people who are smarter than me who complement my skillset and encourage their professional development. I established an initiative where every six months, my management team has a two-day offsite meeting where we discuss priorities and brainstorm new ideas. I invite at least one motivational speaker and host at least one workshop focused on some aspect of professional development-last time it was on Sharpening Your EQ."

Highlight positive feedback you've received in the past

GOOD: "Something that has been really consistent throughout my career is the feedback from my co-workers, vendors, and bosses who say I'm easy to work with. I'm serious about my work, but I don't take myself too seriously, and people really appreciate my sense of humor and levity I bring into our work environment."

Sharpen your interviewing skills

Knowing what to say in a job interview is key to making a lasting impression-in a good way. Offering good interview examples that highlight your unique skills and experience is just one aspect of acing the test. Want a little help preparing for your next audition? Join Monster for free today. As a member, you'll get interview insights, career advice, and job search tips sent directly to your inbox to help you become a top-shelf candidate. You'll learn the ins and outs of salary negotiation, getting a promotion, and even how to land a higher-paying job. Let Monster show you how to leave a positive, lasting impression on every employer you meet.

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How to give examples during job interviews

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Impressing a hiring manager is no easy feat. In addition to getting a handle on your nerves, you have to figure out what to say in a job interview that will make you stand out from the other candidates. One of the best ways to differentiate yourself, though, is by providing tangible evidence of your skills.

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Stand Apart by Showcasing Your Skills, Achievements and Professional Growth

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The Basics of Requesting Others to Back Up Your Name

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USING ChatGPT in YOUR CAREER EXPLORATION, JOB & INTERNSHIP SEARCH

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USING ChatGPT in YOUR CAREER EXPLORATION, JOB & INTERNSHIP SEARCH

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A student guide in using AI tools in career planning. This resource features ChatGPT, but the same applies to other AI tools like CoPilot, Gemini, etc.

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PRACTICE - 20 COMMON INTERVIEW QUESTIONS 

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PRACTICE - 20 COMMON INTERVIEW QUESTIONS 

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20 COMMON INTERVIEWING QUESTIONS - collegewide career services Aug 2026

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How to avoid unfocused, unrelated, and rambling responses.

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What's the best job for you?

Use The Muse to find a job at a company with a culture you love. Select the career path that aligns with you:

How many years of experience do you have?

What company benefits are most important to you?

Calculating your job matches...

To help you narrow down your life (and career) story for the occasion, here are the basics about what to include and how to structure your response.

What to include

The exact contents of your answer to "Tell me about yourself" will be highly specific to you, of course, but broadly, it should:

Begin to show interviewers why you're the best candidate for this job, in terms of hard skills and experience as well as soft skills

Give an overview of your professional history, current role, and where you'd like to go in the future

Prove that you've done your research and know how this job and company would a logical next step in your career

Demonstrate that you can communicate clearly and effectively, connect with and react to other humans, and present yourself professionally

A simple formula

How can you deliver all the possible components of a "Tell me about yourself" answer in one coherent reply? Career coach Lily Zhang, former Manager of Graduate Student Professional Development at the MIT Media Lab and a writer for The Muse, recommends a simple and effective formula for structuring your response:

Present: Talk a little bit about what your current role is, the scope of it, and perhaps a big recent accomplishment.

Past: Tell the interviewer how you got there and/or mention previous experience that's relevant to the job and company you're applying for.

Future: Segue into what you're looking to do next and why you're interested in this gig (and a great fit for it, too).

This isn't the only way to build your response, of course, and you can tweak it as you see fit. If there's a particularly potent story about what brought you into this field, for example, you might decide to start with that "past" story and then get into what you're doing in the present.

Whatever order you pick, make sure you ultimately tie it to the job and company. "A good place to end it is to give a transition of this is why I'm here," Dea says. You want to be absolutely certain your interviewer is left with the impression that it "makes sense that [you're] sitting here talking to me about this role."

OK, so you've got an interview coming up and you know it's probably going to start with some form of "Tell me about yourself." Here's what else you need to do to nail your answer.

1. Remember your first impression matters.

"We really only have one chance to make a first impression," says Muse career coach and recruiter Steven Davis. "My opinion is that most hiring decisions are made in the first minute," which includes your greeting, handshake, eye contact, and the first thing you say, which may very well be your response to "Tell me about yourself."

Even if the powers that be aren't making an irreversible determination shortly after the conversation begins, a first impression can color the rest of the interview. If you have to spend the rest of the time making up for a bad opening, you're in a very different position than if you gave a succinct, confident, and relevant answer right off the bat.

"Be prepared for this question and show interviewers you prepared for it," Campos says. "The confidence that comes across in this is a really good place to start from."

2. Tailor your answer.

"When an interviewer asks that, they really mean tell me about yourself as it's relevant to the position you're applying for and this company. I think they're giving you an opportunity to articulate succinctly why you have the right qualifications," says Muse career coach Tina Wascovich.

Take advantage of the opportunity! In order to do that, you'll want to spend some time combing through the job description, researching the company, and figuring out how you can tell your story in a way that makes it crystal clear why you're interested and what you bring to the table that aligns with the role and company.

"This is the best chance to be very direct and share your objective. But your objective needs to fulfill their goals," Davis says. For example, a client he worked with was leaving a job where her team had developed a new antibacterial cream and got it ready for clinical trials. The new job she wanted entailed working on an entirely unrelated product, so the important thing for her to mention in this case was that prior to her current role, she'd never had experience working on antibacterial creams and was able to come in and figure out how to move the process forward, just as she could do in this new role.

So when you're in the midst of a job search looking for a particular type of role, you might have a basic template you use for every interview, but make sure to tweak it to fit the company. "It's an opportunity to show them right away that you get it," Campos says. "If they talk a lot about culture, weave that into your answer," she adds, and if the company or even the particular team emphasizes something else, see if you can incorporate that. In some cases individual keywords could help give the cue that you've done your research and are a good fit, according to Campos. For example, does the company refer to itself as a tech company or a startup, a consumer brand or an online retailer, a publication or blog?

"Generally the [answers] that always resonate with me show that they really get the role," she says, as well as make it clear why they applied. "I get more engaged because I can see that it's going to go somewhere."

3. Know your audience.

As with any interview question-or conversation for that matter-make sure you understand who you're talking to. You might get some form of "Tell me about yourself" at every single stage of the interview process for a job, from the phone screen through the final round, but that doesn't mean you have to give the same exact answer every time.

If you're speaking to a recruiter who's not immersed in the hard skills of the team you'd be joining, you might keep your answer more focused on the bigger picture, whereas when you speak to your prospective boss, you might get a little bit more technical. If you're talking to a C-level executive as part of your final round, it's probably smart to touch on how you can help achieve the overall mission of the company they run.

You can also enhance your answer and make it more specific to the role and company based on what you learn as you progress through the interview process, Campos says, such as, "When I talked to so-and-so it really resonated with me that..."

4. Keep it professional.

As you know by now, this question carries an invisible addendum: "as it's relevant to this role and company." So you're best off keeping your answer professional. The norm in some countries might be to share personal details at this point, Wascovich says, but in the U.S. you should avoid talking about your family and hobbies, for instance, unless you know something very specific about the company that would lead you to believe otherwise.

5. Speak with passion.

Keeping your answer professional, however, shouldn't stop you from shedding light on why you're passionate about your work or about this company, even if that broaches slightly more personal territory.

For example, Wascovich once worked with a special education administrator who'd actually been a special education student in elementary school. Her teachers inspired her to pursue the career she did. "So in telling your story about how you got your start, that could be a unique hook."

You don't have to go into a huge amount of detail, but if your goal in an interview is to stand out among the applicant pool and be memorable, then infusing this answer with some passion can help you do that. "People don't want to talk to robots-they want to talk to humans," Dea says. "I love it when someone tells me, 'I knew I wanted to work in marketing when I was a kid. I've always really loved writing.'"

Campos agrees. "If a person really is connected to their mission and what they want to go after in their next role and this company really aligns, this is a great place to bring that in," she says. You might incorporate a sentence like, "I'm really passionate about x and y and so I was really attracted to your company..."

6. Don't ramble.

Whatever you do, don't waste this time regurgitating every single detail of your career. "Most people answer it like they're giving a dissertation on their resume," says Davis, but that's only going to bore the interviewer to tears.

It's not just about entertaining or engaging your interviewer, Campos explains. You're also giving a hint as to how you'll speak in meetings with coworkers, bosses, and clients. Are you going to ramble for 10 minutes every time someone asks you a somewhat open-ended question?

There's no scientifically proven optimal length for answering this or any interview question. Some coaches and recruiters will tell you to keep it to 30 seconds or less, while others will say you should aim for a minute, or talk for no more than two minutes. "Everyone has a different approach," says Dea, who's had candidates speak for one minute or go on for five. But in his experience, people tend to start losing steam after 1.5 to 2.5 minutes of uninterrupted talking.

Read the room as you're talking. If the other person looks bored or distracted, it might be time to wrap it up. If they perk up at one part of your answer, it might be worth expanding on that topic a bit more.

In general, however, remember that you don't have to relay your entire life story here, Dea says. Think of it as a teaser that should pique the interviewer's interest and give them a chance to ask follow-up questions about whatever intrigues them most.

7. Practice, but don't memorize.

You don't want to wait until you get this question in a live interview to try out your answer for the first time. Think through what you want to convey about yourself ahead of each interview and practice saying it out loud.

Davis recommends leaving yourself a voicemail or recording your answer and then waiting an hour or more before you listen to it to give yourself some distance and perspective. When you finally play it back, see if the answer sounds solid and credible to you.

If you can, go beyond practicing solo. "It always helps to practice with other people to hear yourself say it and hear feedback from how other people are interpreting what you're saying," Dea says. Asking a trusted colleague, friend, or family member to listen and react to your answer will help you hone it.

Practice will make your answer stronger and help you become more confident giving it. Dea warns, however, against memorizing and reciting your spiel word-for-word. "There's a fine balance between practicing and memorizing. It needs to come off as very authentic," he says.

Wascovich explains that recruiters might be more understanding of new grads in their first couple of years in the workforce who sound like they've memorized their answer, but that it's likely to be a red flag for anyone with a little bit more experience. "You don't want to sound overly rehearsed," she says.

8. Keep it positive.

If you were fired or laid off from your last job, this probably isn't the best moment to mention it. "There's a time and place for everything-you don't have to cram it all into this answer," Campos says. "If you view this as your first impression professionally, give them a window into that but don't give them everything. The conversation's not ready for that."

As you move further into an interview, things get more comfortable. So wait until you get a specific question about why you're looking to change jobs or why you have a gap on your resume to address those topics.

And that advice you've probably heard a million times about not badmouthing your previous employer? That applies here, too. Especially here. If the first thing you tell an interviewer is how awful your boss is and how you're trying to escape the misery of their micromanaging clutches, that's a big turnoff.

That's all great in theory, but what would a solid answer actually sound like? Check out these examples we pulled together with help from Zhang, Dea, and Campos.

Example answer #1 for someone looking for a similar role at a new company
"Sure! So I've always enjoyed writing and public speaking, even as far back as high school. This led me to pursue writing-related passions-for example in college, where I was an editor for our school newspaper. In addition to writing, I got to learn how to manage a team and how to approach the writing process. After college, I took a job at Acme as a social media manager, writing copy and social content for the company blog, but I raised my hand to work on the communications plan for a product launch, which is where I discovered my interest in product marketing. After switching to a product marketing role and managing the two most successful new product launches last year, I realized I'm excited to take on a new opportunity. I've learned I work best on products that I love and use, and given that I'm a big user of your company's products, I jumped at the chance to apply when I saw the open posting."
Example answer #2 for someone transitioning from an agency to an in-house role
"Well, I'm currently an account executive at Smith, where I handle our top performing client. Before that, I worked at an agency where I was on three different major national healthcare brands. And while I really enjoyed the work that I did, I'd love the chance to dig in much deeper with one specific healthcare company, which is why I'm so excited about this opportunity with Metro Health Center."
Example answer #3 for someone pivoting into a similar role in a new industry
"I've been in the marketing industry for over five years, primarily working in account and project management roles. I most recently worked as a senior PM for a large tech company managing large marketing campaigns and overseeing other project managers. And now I'm looking to expand my experience across different industries, particularly fintech, which is why I'm so interested in joining an agency like yours."
Example answer #4 for a recent graduate
"Absolutely! I graduated from Howard in May with a major in computer science and a minor in theater arts and have been spending this summer interning at a theater nonprofit. I've had a chance to put my coding skills to good use by helping revamp the organization's ticket sales page. Since it launched two weeks ago, the time it takes patrons to get through the purchasing process has decreased by 43% and scores on a popup satisfaction survey have gone up by nearly 20%. It's been particularly exciting to be immersed in this environment because I've been in love with theater since I did my first school play in 7th grade-it was 13: The Musical and I landed the role of Patrice-and even led The Howard Players my senior year. This internship experience has only reinforced my desire to merge my CS skills with my passion for theater, which is why I knew I had to apply as soon as I saw the junior web developer role here."
Example answer #5 for a career changer
"I've spent the first decade of my career working in account management for SaaS startups selling B2B software, including my current company, which develops remote collaboration tools. And for the last couple of years I've been managing three to five direct reports. I've found people management incredibly fulfilling, and have been especially drawn to training and professional development. One of the accomplishments I'm proudest of in my job now was creating a series of upskilling workshops not just for my own team but for the entire revenue org. Account managers and sales reps who participated showed an average increase of 22% in sales or renewal revenue per quarter. Looking back, it makes so much sense that I've gravitated in this direction, considering I tutored and led workshops for the comms department in college. As I've thought about my next steps, I realized I wanted to transition into an HR role so that I can focus all of my energy on creating and implementing training programs. I can't think of a better place to start than at a company that makes software I've relied on in multiple previous jobs."

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How to Respond to "Tell Me About Yourself" in a Job Interview

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You know a lot about you, but when an interviewer says, "Tell me about yourself," it can be pretty stressful. We've got tips and examples to help you prep.

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Working effectively under pressure

Handling a difficult situation with a co-worker

Applying good judgment and logic in solving a problem

Thinking creatively

Completing a project on time

Persuading team members to do things your way

Writing a report or proposal that was well received

Anticipating potential problems and developing                preventative measures

Making an important decision with limited facts and information

Making a quick decision during the absence of a supervisor

Making an unpopular decision

Adapting to a difficult situation

Being tolerant of a different opinion

Using your political savvy to promote a program or idea that you really believed in

Dealing with an upset client or customer

Delegating a project effectively

Explaining complex information to a client, colleague, or peer

Surmounting a major obstacle

Prioritizing the elements of a complicated project

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Download our free app to listen on your phone

Gender free interview attire for the 21st Century.

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Dress for Success: The Feeling is Neutral - College Central Podcasts: Career and Job Search Advice

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Gender free interview attire for the 21st Century.

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How to Handle Live or Pre-Recorded Interviews

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How to Perform a Pre-Interview Tech Check

The last thing you need is technical difficulties during your interview. The possibility of connectivity issues and poor audio or video quality are among the top concerns of applicants participating in video interviews.

To help alleviate these worries, platforms that care about applicants' success provide helpful tools such as a diagnostic tech test that you can perform before your interview. It tests your video connectivity, internet speed, camera, and microphone. That way you can be assured your equipment is working as it should, eliminating unnecessary worry before and during your interview.

Internet Connection

Naturally, you'll both want and need a secure, stable internet connection for your interview. Be careful that not too many devices or users are connected to the internet because this can slow your internet speed, interrupting video quality and/or sound during your interview. If possible, ask people to temporarily disconnect until after your interview. Avoid public Wi-Fi as it may not be a strong connection.

If you still have questions or technical difficulties, don't hesitate to reach out to applicant support over chat, email, or phone.

Best Practices for a Successful Virtual Interview

Now that you're confident you've got a good handle on the technical side of things, it's time to focus on you and everything else that's in your camera frame.

Lights, Camera, Interview! The Dos and Don'ts of Lighting

This is your chance to literally present yourself in the best light. Take time to find a well-lit area before your interview.

Setting up optimal lighting need not be complicated. The easiest lighting solution is near a sunny window with lots of natural light. Artificial light (such as two lamps on either side of your electronic device) can work just as well, especially if your interview takes place after the sun has set.

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Video Interview Tips: Guide to Acing Your Job Interview

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This comprehensive guide gives applicants everything they need to know to prepare for video interviews. Score your dream job with these best practices!

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How AI is Used in Early Interviews

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For a long time, your main objective during an interview was to make a good impression on a recruiter. In today's world, there's a new element to consider: impressing an algorithm. Many companies have adopted artificial intelligence (AI) interview technology to streamline the hiring process and make it more efficient.

But what does that mean for you as a job seeker? Truthfully, it can mean various things, including some benefits and a few drawbacks. But with the proper preparation, you can still make a winning impression during your AI interview.

What Are AI Interviews?

At a high level, AI interviews use artificial intelligence to assess job candidates. The purpose of an AI interview is to drastically reduce the time and effort human recruiters must put into the hiring process.

Generally, you'll answer automated questions before a screen, and AI algorithms will analyze your responses. AI is primarily used during the first round of interviews, narrowing down candidates that recruiters and hiring managers will then interact with personally.

- Benefits of AI Interviews

The main advantage of AI Interviews is that it makes the recruitment process quicker and more efficient. Employers can quickly sift through applicants to find the best candidates more accurately. With popular jobs receiving hundreds of applications, screening applicants by hand creates a significant bottleneck in the hiring process.

And it's not just employers who benefit from a quicker hiring process. As a job seeker, you'll know whether to move on to other opportunities or dive deeper into company research and interview preparation. Additionally, AI Interviews are purported to help eliminate bias and contribute to a fairer hiring process. That's because AI is programmed to focus on qualifications and avoid preconceptions associated with human-based assessment.

Not only that, but your interview process won't be hijacked by misaligned schedules. AI doesn't take vacation or sick days, or lunch, for that matter. So, you'll often be able to schedule the interview at a time that works with your schedule.

- Drawbacks of and Concerns About AI Interviews

Despite the potential benefits, AI interviews have some drawbacks. Even with the best of intentions, AI has the risk of perpetuating human biases and violating antidiscrimination laws.

AI systems don't think for themselves. Instead, they learn from existing data and mimic human behavior, which can contain inherent biases. As a result, automated hiring tools can inadvertently reinforce discriminatory hiring practices, rather than eliminate them.

Another concern is the interpretation of human emotions by AI systems. For example, the AI could misinterpret an interviewee's facial expressions, body language, or vocal inflections. Where a human recruiter might consider cultural differences, disabilities, or even facial scarring, for example, AI could potentially lead to unfair judgments and decisions.

Beyond ethics and diversity, privacy and data security are also essential concerns when using AI in hiring processes. Unauthorized parties could access candidates' sensitive information and recorded interviews if proper security measures are not in place.

Regardless of the drawbacks, AI looks to be here to stay and will continue to improve. According to SHRM, 83% of U.S. employers already utilize some form of automation in their hiring process. You'll likely find it part of your interview process as a job seeker at some point in the not-too-distant future. Dig deeper to understand how AI interviews work and how to best prepare for upcoming interviews.

How Do AI Interviews Work?

Currently, there are two main types of AI interview platforms. Each has some key components and features that will affect your experience.

- Types of AI Interview Platforms

AI assessments: These systems analyze video interviews using AI technology, assessing candidate responses based on verbal and nonverbal cues.

Conversational HR chatbots: In these interviews, an AI chatbot facilitates the interview process by guiding candidates through a series of questions and tasks. Candidates are screened without the need for human involvement in the initial stages.

- Components and Features of AI Interviews

Automated question generation: AI interview systems can generate questions based on the job requirements, ensuring consistency and relevant content for each candidate.

Real-time analysis: AI algorithms analyze candidate responses, both verbal and nonverbal, in real time. This can include measuring response time, speech patterns, and facial expressions.

Predictive analytics: AI interview platforms may use predictive analytics to match candidates with jobs based on their behavior and responses during the interview.

Employee performance tracking: By integrating AI interviews with existing performance management systems, employers can track the success of new hires and refine their recruitment processes.

How Do You Prepare for an AI Interview?

Thorough preparation can significantly increase your chances of success. In this way, AI interviews don't vary from regular interviews. However, a few tips can bring you success specific to your AI interviewer.

- Research the Company and Review the Job Description

As with any interview, you'll better understand the company culture, values, and mission by diving into your research. You can tailor your responses during the AI interview to align with the company's goals and demonstrate your knowledge of the organization.

- Prepare for Common Questions

AI algorithms analyze your responses for personality traits and language proficiency. Work to align your tone and responses with targeted keywords, as AI evaluates your answers based on programmed guidelines.

For technical roles that involve software development or data analysis, be ready to engage in puzzles or coding challenges as part of the interview process.

- Familiarize Yourself With the AI Platform

Look for clues about the AI tools used in your interview by reading fine print or email communications. Then, research the specific AI the company uses before your upcoming interview. Research online, read reviews or articles about it, and try to find any available sample questions or practice interviews. Some AI interviewing platforms also offer demo versions or tutorials you can use to better prepare for your upcoming interview.

- Practice Speaking Clearly and Concisely

You'll have fewer nerves if you're confident in what you will say. You'll also likely get a higher score if you're concise and speak clearly. One way to practice for an AI interview is to record yourself answering common interview questions on video or in front of a mirror.

Identify verbal or visual habits that may distract from your message, such as saying "um" or "like" too often. This can also help you refine your body language and facial expressions to convey confidence and professionalism.

- Test Your Internet and Technology in Advance

Don't let technical issues overwhelm you during the interview. Test your equipment ahead of time so you'll be able to focus on creating a positive impression. Remember that you'll likely need all of your audio and visual equipment. Verify your microphone and camera are working and your internet speed is sufficient.

If you do experience technical issues during the interview, don't panic. Try to troubleshoot the issue quickly and calmly, and communicate what's happening. You can say something simple like, "I'm sorry, it looks like my connection is unstable. Can we pause for a moment while I try to fix it?"

Even though the interview is virtual, it's still important to dress appropriately. Resist the urge to only dress for the interview from the waist up. You never know when you may need to stand up or move around during the interview. Not only that, but dressing professionally can help you feel more confident and put-together.

AI can add a level of complexity to your job search, but the principles that help you stand out during a human-led interview will also help you stand out during an AI interview. Fully research the company and the job, infuse your communications (such as your resume and emails) with keywords from the job ad, and prepare thoroughly for the interview. Combine those three habits to help you pass your next interview with flying colors, regardless of whether the interviewer is human or not.

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AI Interviews: What They Are and How They Work

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You know how to impress the hiring manager, but what about an AI algorithm? Here's what you should know about AI interviews and how you can best prepare.

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Tips to Impress an Algorithm

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10 Top Suggestions for AI Video Interviews

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Here we will investigate AI-based video interview, how it is being used, and how to master an artificial intelligence video interview act.

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BEHAVIOR INTERVIEW QUESTIONS AND THE S.T.A.R. TECHNIQUE 

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BEHAVIOR INTERVIEW QUESTIONS AND THE S.T.A.R. TECHNIQUE 

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What is a Behavioral Interview?

A behavioral interview is a popular interview technique employers use to assess job candidates based on their past behavior. For example, instead of asking hypothetical questions like, "How would you react if you were under a lot of pressure at work?" they would instead ask situational questions like, "Describe a time you were under a lot of pressure at work. How did you react?"

In this quick video, Indeed recruiter Evan explains how you can prepare and answer these questions.

(Keep reading for in-depth tips along with behavioral interview questions and answers.)

Behavioral Interview Tips

Here are some important tips to consider when preparing for your next behavioral interview:

Study the job description.

Review major projects you've worked on.

Revisit previous job performance reviews.

Make a list of your professional accomplishments.

Use the STAR method to structure your response.

Be open and honest in your answer.

Practice your interview responses aloud.

Keep your answers under two minutes.

With these kinds of questions, interviewers are usually trying to learn three things: First, they want to know how you behaved in a real-world situation. Second, they want to understand the measurable value you added to that situation. Finally, they are trying to learn how you define something like "pressure at work"-a concept different people might interpret differently.

Success in a behavioral interview is all about preparation. There aren't necessarily wrong answers. These questions are aimed at getting to know the real you. The important thing is to be honest and to practice structuring your responses in a way that communicates what you have to offer.
Related: The Most Common Behavioral Interview Questions and Answers
Use the STAR method to structure answers to behavioral questions

You can use the STAR interview method to prepare for behavioral interviews-a technique that helps you structure your response to behavioral interview questions. Using this method, you create a deliberate story arc that your interviewer can easily follow. Here's how it works:

What is the context of your story? In setting the situation, you are telling your listener when or where this event took place. For example, " We were working on a six-month contract for a high-value client when our agency merged with another, larger firm... "

What was your role in this situation? For example, "It was my role to lead the transition for my group while also communicating with our client to keep the project on track."

What did you do? For example, "I set up weekly check-ins with the client to update them on the progress of the merger. This cemented an important level of trust between us. I also had regular one-on-ones with each person on the team, both to assess how they were handling the change and to make sure we would meet our deadlines."

What did your actions lead to? For example, "We ended up completing the project on time, meeting all of their specifications. It was incredibly rewarding to navigate a lot of change and succeed under pressure."
Related: How to Use the STAR Interview Response Technique
How to prepare

Read the job description carefully. Make a list of the top skills or qualifications it calls for. Think of a story that demonstrates your ability in each area. Following the STAR technique, write your stories down, including the situation, task, action and result. Then, practice saying them out loud several times, either by yourself or with a friend. Keep in mind that your answer should only take about 1 1/2 to 2 minutes. As you include each of the elements, try to be succinct.

If you're feeling shy or lacking confidence, this practice is all the more important. You should get comfortable with these stories. Remember, you won't be able to anticipate every behavioral question you get, but with a strong set of anecdotes, you'll be able to answer each one with confidence.
Related: Lominger Interview Questions and Answers: The Behavioral Interview
Behavioral interview questions

Here are several examples of questions you might be asked in your next behavioral interview. Take some time to prepare sample answers for each both to practice and plan so you will be prepared for future interviews.

Give me an example of a difficult problem you solved. How did you solve this problem?

Tell me about a mistake that you've made. How did you handle it?

Can you tell me about a challenging situation you overcame at work?

Tell me about a time you learned a new skill. How did you approach it and how to did you apply your new learnings?

Has there been a time when you had to pitch an idea to a manager or senior leader? What was the outcome?

Tell me about a time when you overcame a conflict at work.

Explain a situation in which you would have handled things differently.

Tell me about a time you handled a stressful situation when you were under a lot of pressure.

Can you tell me about a time you set and achieved a certain goal?

What is your proudest professional accomplishment and why?

Behavioral interview sample answer

Using the above techniques, here is an example of how you might answer a behavioral interview question:

Question: Tell me about a time when you overcame a conflict at work.

Answer: "At my last job, my colleague and I disagreed on how to handle a sensitive situation with our client. We made a mistake in their campaign that resulted in poor overall performance. While my colleague wanted to move forward without explaining the mistake, I thought it would be best to let the client know what happened.
After going back and forth, I asked him if we could set some time aside to weigh the costs and benefits of each option. In the end, we needed to see each other's motivations and fears to get a better understanding of the other.
We decided to let the client know what had happened and agreed to provide them with another campaign at no cost. While it did result in a short-term loss for the company, the client appreciated our honesty and booked an annual campaign exceeding their spending with us in the past. My colleague and I were also recognized for our teamwork and ended up counseling other client teams on conflict resolution."

Create an Indeed Resume so you can be contacted by employers about new jobs.

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How To Prepare for a Behavioral Interview

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What is a Behavioral Interview? A behavioral interview is a popular interview technique employers use to assess job candidates based on their past behavior. For example, instead of asking hypothetical questions like, "How would you react if you were under a lot of pressure at work?"

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Questions to Ask the Interviewer. college-wide career services Aug 2026

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Please note: the interviewee's attire could be considered too casual for the interview; adding a jacket (and removing the nose ring!) is recommended.  When in doubt, choose Business Professional dress.

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Top Interview Tips: Common Questions, Nonverbal Communication & More | Indeed

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The Right Way to Submit References During Your Job Search (Template Included) | The Muse

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Learn what the standard is for resume references nowadays and how to list your professional references the right way, with a template and an example.

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How to Ask a Professor for a Letter of Recommendation (With Samples!) | The Muse

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Learn how to ask a professor for a letter of recommendation with clear examples, tips for timing, and crafting the perfect email subject line.

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You've found your dream company. The even better news? They're currently hiring for a position that's perfect for you.

You've already tackled all of the application basics. You did your research, tailored your resume, wrote an impressive cover letter, and even sent the department head a friendly LinkedIn request.

But, with all of that under your belt, you're looking for one more way that you can stand out and elevate yourself above the competition.

We have three words for you: letter of recommendation.

Is it Common for Employers to Ask for Letters of Recommendation?

Honestly? It's rare that you'll be explicitly asked to hand one of these over. (It's much more likely that you'll be asked for references.)

"Except for junior roles where someone lacks experience or senior roles where character is as important as skill set," clarifies Tara Padua, a Muse Career Coach.

Should You Have These Letters in Your Back Pocket Anyway?

I know what you're thinking: If these letters aren't an expectation, why would I go through the trouble of getting them?

Well, just because an employer won't demand them doesn't mean you can't use them to separate yourself from the job search competition.

"If you have a letter, hiring managers could get more of a sense of your skills if they aren't able to connect live with your former supervisors for whatever reason and only get the basics from HR," explains Muse Career Coach Kelly Poulson.

Beyond giving you the opportunity to emphasize what makes you a no-brainer for that role, these letters can also serve as an awesome confidence boost.

"It certainly doesn't hurt on days when you're doubting yourself (we all have them!) to have something to refer to that reminds you of how valued you truly are," Poulson adds.

How Should You Go About Asking Someone to Write You One?

You might be convinced of the power of a solid letter of recommendation-but, that doesn't necessarily mean asking is any easier. Fortunately, there are ways to make this request a little less nerve-wracking.

First things first, think carefully about who you're asking. Poulson warns that you don't want to request too much of any one person-meaning you might want to stay away from your references when thinking about who to ask for a letter. "Be mindful of your asks and pick folks to write letters who likely won't be doing calls as well," she adds.

While a letter of recommendation from someone who's high up the ladder can be impressive, make sure that you're asking people who actually know you and your work. "Having a senior person write a generic letter of recommendation without any real knowledge of you and your skills will produce the opposite effect," explains Padua. And even if it doesn't hurt, it won't help.

In terms of actually making the ask, Poulson shares that a little bit of flattery can go a long way. "Start out with how much you've enjoyed working with them and how much you value their opinion," Poulson adds.

Finally, make the process of writing the letter as painless as possible by empowering them with the information they need. "Make it easy for the person to recommend you," Padua says, "Tell them specifically what you would like to highlight."

That might mean looking back at your work ethic or impact on the team in a previous position, or emphasizing a specific skill set that matches the type of roles you're targeting in your search. Whatever it is, make sure you're clear about what you're looking for.

And that includes being clear about your timeline as well. Remember, you're asking this person for a favor, so you need to be realistic with your expectations. It's smart to give contacts at least a week (but ideally more) to get the letter drafted and returned to you.

Make sense? Great-let's pull all of those tips into an easy-to-use template.
I hope you're having a great week! I'm reaching out because I'm applying for [type of role] with [type of company] and am pulling together a few letters of recommendation to emphasize why I'm a qualified fit for this kind of position. I really enjoyed our time working together at [Company]-particularly when we were able to collaborate on [project]. With that in mind, I thought you'd be a great person to vouch for my expertise in [key skill area] and my ability to [impressive result]. I know you're busy. So, if it'd help, I'm happy to pass along some additional talking points and information to make writing this letter a little easier. Would you be comfortable writing a letter of this nature for me? Please let me know if you have any questions about this, [Name]. Let's catch up over coffee soon-my treat!

No, letters of recommendation aren't a job search staple the way your resume or your cover letter is. But, that doesn't mean you can't use them to your advantage.

If the only thing holding you back is the fact that asking for these letters can feel more than a little awkward (believe me, I get it), take a deep breath, use these tips and this template, and just send that email.

You'll be armed with an impressive letter or two in your back pocket that you can use to prove to employers that you're the candidate they've been searching for.

Kat is a Midwest-based freelance writer, covering topics related to careers, productivity, and the freelance life. In addition to The Muse, she's a contributor all over the web and dishes out research-backed advice for places like Atlassian, Trello, Toggl, Wrike, The Everygirl, FlexJobs, and more. She's also an Employment Advisor at a local college, and loves helping students prepare to thrive in careers (and lives!) they love. When she manages to escape from behind her computer screen, she's usually babying her two rescue mutts or continuing her search for the perfect taco. Say hi on Twitter @kat_boogaard or check out her website.

More from Kat Boogaard

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How to Ask for an Awesome Letter of Recommendation

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Want to ask one of your contacts for an impressive letter of recommendation? It can feel awkward at best. Use these tips and this template as your guide for how to ask for a letter of recommendation-even if it's not required for the jobs you're applying to-and actually get one you're proud of.

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How to Handle Improper Questions

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How to Handle Illegal Questions

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How To Answer Interview Questions Employers Should Not Ask

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Tips on how to answer inappropriate or illegal interview questions, including a list of what employers should not ask, and what to do if they do.

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How to Answer “What Are Your Salary Expectations?”

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There are many interview questions that inspire dread in an interviewee — from “What’s your greatest weakness?” to “Tell me about yourself.” But one in particular is especially complicated: “What are your salary expectations?” If you go too low, you might end up making less than they’re willing to pay. But if you go too high, you could price yourself out of the job. In this piece, the author offers practical strategies for how to approch this question along with sample answers to use as a guide.

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Ways to Avoid Revealing Your Salary During an Interview

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The salary trap: what to say instead in interviews

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Saying your salary too early in an interview can cost you. Learn what to say instead, when to say it, and how to keep control of the negotiation.

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What's the best job for you?

Use The Muse to find a job at a company with a culture you love. Select the career path that aligns with you:

How many years of experience do you have?

What company benefits are most important to you?

Calculating your job matches...

Or do we?
SEARCH OPEN JOBS ON THE MUSE! See who's hiring here, and you can even filter your search by benefits, company size, remote opportunities, and more. Then, sign up for our newsletter and we'll deliver advice on landing the job right to you.
A survey by Salary.com revealed that only 37% of people always negotiate their salaries-while an astonishing 18% never do. Even worse, 44% of respondents claim to have never brought up the subject of a raise during their performance reviews.

The biggest reason for not asking for more? Fear.

And we get it: Salary negotiation can be scary. But what's even scarier is not doing it.

Here's a good example: A famous study done by Linda Babcock for her book Women Don't Ask revealed that only about 7% of women attempted to negotiate their first salary, while 57% of men did. Of those people who negotiated, they were able to increase their salary by over 7%.

That may not sound like much, but as Stanford negotiation professor Margaret A. Neale puts it: If you get a $100,000 salary and your co-worker negotiates up to $107,000, assuming you're treated identically from then on, with the same raises and promotions, you'd have to work eight years longer to be as wealthy as them at retirement.

So, whether you're male or female, in your first job or your fifth, it's time to learn how to negotiate. And we're here to help, with a roundup of expert tips and further reading to get you totally prepped.

1. Know Your Value

If you're going to get the pay you deserve, it's crucial to know the going rate for your position in your specific industry and in your geographic area. As I Will Teach You to Be Rich's Ramit Sethi points out, if you walk into a salary negotiation without a number, you're at the mercy of an experienced hiring manager who can simply control the conversation.

You can do this by doing an online search on sites such as Payscale or Glassdoor, or by asking others in your field (ideally both men and women, to avoid falling victim to the gender pay gap).

2. Talk to Recruiters

Another way to do some research? Pick up those calls from recruiters. They know what people with your experience and expertise are worth, so use it to your advantage! The next time one reaches out to you, engage in a conversation about the position's responsibilities and pay. You may not get a specific number, but even a range is helpful.

3. Organize Your Thoughts

To organize all of your thoughts and research in one place, check out the free resources at She Negotiates (yes, it's helpful for guys, too).

4. Pick the Top of the Range

As you're doing your research, you'll likely come up with a range that represents your market value. It can be tempting to ask for something in the middle of the range, but instead you should ask for something toward the top.

First of all, you should assume you're entitled to top pay, says She Negotiates founder Victoria Pynchon.

Second, your employer will almost certainly negotiate down, so you need wiggle room to still end up with a salary you're pleased with.

5. Know the (Exact) Number

According to researchers at Columbia Business School, you should ask for a very specific number-say, $64,750 rather than $65,000.

Turns out, when employees use a more precise number in their initial negotiation request, they are more likely to get a final offer closer to what they were hoping for. This is because the employer will assume you've done more extensive research into your market value to reach that specific number.

6. Be Willing to Walk Away

When considering your numbers, you should also come up with a "walk away point"-a final offer that's so low that you have to turn it down. This could be based on financial need, market value, or simply what you need to feel good about the salary you're bringing home.

Walking away from an offer will never be easy, but it's important to know when to do it-and powerful to be able to say "no."

7. Make Sure You're Ready

Before you ask for a raise, you'll want to ask yourself a few questions.

Have you been at your job for a year? Have you taken on new responsibilities since you've been hired? Have you been exceeding expectations (rather than just meeting them)? The answer to all of these should be "yes."

8. Plan the Right Timing

Turns out, timing is everything. Most people wait until performance review season to ask for a salary adjustment, but by that time, your boss has probably already decided what raises will be doled out to the team.

Instead? "Start talking to your boss about getting a raise three to four months in advance," writer and former human resources professional Suzanne Lucas of EvilHRLady.org told LearnVest. "That's when they decide the budget."

9. Prepare a One-Sheet

Prepare a "brag sheet," recommends Kathleen O'Malley of Babble. "It's a one-page summary that shows exactly how awesome you are as an employee. List any accomplishments, awards, and customer or co-worker testimonials ("You saved me when you did XYZ!" emails definitely count as testimonials!) you've received since your last review. You want to demonstrate your value to your boss."

10. Remember Practice Makes Perfect

Rehearse, rehearse, rehearse. Write down what you want to say, and practice to a mirror, on video, or with a friend until you're super comfortable having the conversation.

11. Set the Meeting for Thursday

Studies show that you're more likely to get a raise if you ask on Thursday.

We tend to start off the week more hard-nosed and even disagreeable, but become more flexible and accommodating as the week wears on. "Thursdays and Fridays find us most open to negotiation and compromise because we want to finish our work before the week is out," reports Psychology Today.

12. Power Up

Before you go into the negotiation, try Amy Cuddy's tip of doing a "power pose" -in other words, going into the bathroom and standing tall with your hands on your hips, your chin and chest raised proud, and your feet firm on the ground. Doing so raises testosterone, which influences confidence and reduces the stress hormone cortisol.

13. Drink Some Coffee

A study by the European Journal of Social Psychology found that caffeine made people more resistant to persuasion-meaning you'll have an easier time holding your ground during the negotiation.

14. Walk in With Confidence

"The way you enter a room can dictate how the rest of an interaction will be," says James Clear. "Ever see someone slump through a doorway with a scowl on their face? Not very inspiring. Keep your head high and smile when you enter. Starting things off with a positive vibe is very important, no matter how small it is."

15. Start With Questions

You should start the negotiation conversation by asking diagnostic questions to understand more about the other party's true needs, desires, fears, preferences, and priorities. Professor Leigh Thompson at the Kellogg School of Business at Northwestern University says that 93% of all negotiators fail to ask these "diagnostic questions" in circumstances where getting them answered would significantly improve the outcome of negotiations.

Asking questions like, "What are your biggest priorities right now?" can help you understand where your negotiation partner is coming from-and offer up solutions that will help.

16. Show What You Can Do

Before you start talking numbers, talk about what you've done and-more importantly-what you can do.

Remember that brag sheet? Now's your chance to walk through your accomplishments with your manager. If possible, print a copy for your manager to look at while you summarize what you've achieved this year. You'll want to specifically highlight times when you've gone above and beyond in your role, which will build the case that you deserve a raise. Then, be prepared with a few thoughts on what you're excited to take on going forward-whether that's freeing up some of your manager's bandwidth by taking on an existing project, or proposing a new idea that you're excited to own.

17. Focus on the Future, Not the Past

When negotiating the salary for a new job, it's not uncommon for the company (or even a recruiter during the job search process!) to ask about your current salary. (Note that in many localities, doing so is now illegal.)

It can be a tricky situation, especially if you're being underpaid at your current job or looking to make significantly more, but it's never a good idea to lie.

Instead, give your current number (including benefits, bonuses, and the like) and then quickly move the conversation along to explain the number you're looking for, focusing on explaining your new skills or responsibilities, your market value, and how you're looking to grow, explains Pynchon.

18. Think About the Other Person

When preparing for negotiating, get in the mindset of thinking about the situation from your opponent's perspective, recommends career expert Steph Stern. Research by Columbia psychologist Adam Galinsky shows that when we consider the other person's thoughts and interests, we are more likely to find solutions that work well for both of us.

19. Try Thinking About Someone Else

Research from Columbia Business School shows that people-especially women-tend to do better when they negotiate for someone else, reports Stern.

"So, in preparing to negotiate, think about how what you're asking for will impact those around you: It's not just for you, but also for your family and your future. It's even for your employer! After all, if you are happier with your position and compensation, you're more likely to work hard and be successful."

20. Stay Positive, Not Pushy

Negotiation may be scary, but you should always keep the conversation on a positive note, recommends Forbes. "[Kick] off the conversation with something like, 'I really enjoy working here and find my projects very challenging. In the last year, I've been feeling that the scope of my work has expanded quite a bit. I believe my roles and responsibilities, and my contributions have risen. I'd like to discuss with you the possibilities of reviewing my compensation.'"

21. Put Your Number Out First

The anchor-or the first number put on the table-is the most important in negotiation, since it's what the rest of the conversation is based off of. If it's too low, you'll end up with a lower final offer than you probably want.

You should always be the first person to mention a number so that you, not your counterpart, controls the anchor.

22. Ask for More Than What You Want

You should always ask for more than you actually want. Psychology shows that your bargaining partner will feel like he or she is getting a better deal if he or she negotiates down from your original ask.

And don't fear asking for too much! The worst that can happen if you give a high number is that the other party will counteroffer-but the worst that can happen if you don't negotiate is that you'll get nothing.

23. Don't Use a Range

Mike Hoffman suggests that you should never use the word "between" when negotiating.

In other words, never give a range: "I'm looking for between $60K and $65K." That suggests you're willing to concede, and the person you're negotiating with will immediately jump to the smaller number.

24. Be Kind But Firm

Negotiating for a new job? Here's a great script to try, courtesy of Rebecca Thorman at U.S. News & World Report:

"I'm really excited to work here, and I know that I will bring a lot of value. I appreciate the offer at $58,000, but was really expecting to be in the $65,000 range based on my experience, drive, and performance. Can we look at a salary of $65,000 for this position?"

25. Focus on Market Value

Rather than discussing a raise or new salary based on what you make now, keep the conversation focused on what the market is paying for people like you (your "market value"). Re-frame any metric your negotiation partner uses-like percentage differences-as market value, re-focusing the discussion on hard dollars.

26. Prioritize Your Requests

As part of your conversation, lay everything you're looking for out on the table in rank order.

Explains Wharton professor Adam Grant on Business Insider: "In a job offer negotiation, for example, you might say that salary is most important to you, followed by location, and then vacation time and signing bonus. Research shows that rank-ordering is a powerful way to help your counterparts understand your interests without giving away too much information. You can then ask them to share their priorities, and look for opportunities for mutually beneficial tradeoffs: both sides win on the issues that are most important to them."

27. But Don't Mention Personal Needs

Don't focus on your personal needs-like that fact that your rent's gone up or childcare expenses have increased. (Chances are, your co-workers are dealing with similar situations.) You make a much better case to your boss (and his or her boss!) that you're worth more when you focus on your performance and achievements.

28. Ask for Advice

After you've sold your benefits, talked about your value, and made your ask, Grant recommends asking, "I trust you, and I'd very much value your recommendations. What would you suggest?" By doing so, he says, you've flattered your negotiating partner, you've encouraged him or her to take your perspective, and you'll (hopefully) persuade him or her to advocate for you and your request.

29. Use Email Where Appropriate

Most negotiations are done in person or over the phone, but if most of your communication with a recruiter or hiring manager has been over email, don't be afraid to negotiate over email, as well. It ensures you stick to the script and can be a whole lot less scary.

If you do negotiate over email, try to infuse as much empathy, pleasant conversation, and openness as possible into your message, mimicking a real-life conversation. ( Here's how to do it, courtesy of Pynchon.)

30. Don't Forget to Listen

Listening to the other party during a negotiation is almost as important as your ask and argument. By really paying attention to what the other person is saying, you can understand his or her needs and incorporate them into finding a solution that makes you both happy.

31. Don't Fear the "No"

You may be afraid of rejection, but according to Pynchon, a negotiation doesn't actually start until someone says "no."

She explains: "It's not really a negotiation if we're asking for something we know our bargaining partner also wants. Negotiation is a conversation whose goal is to reach an agreement with someone whose interests are not perfectly aligned with yours."

So understand that the "no" is just part of the process-not a statement on how you're doing.

32. Use Stalling to Your Advantage

"When you hear the other person's first offer, don't say 'OK.' Say 'Hmmm,'" recommends executive career coach Jack Chapman. "Give yourself some time, and in the seconds of silence, the other person is more likely to improve in some way."

33. Ask Questions

Does the person you're negotiating with flinch or otherwise react negatively to the number you put on the table? Don't let that deter you; instead, ask open-ended questions to keep the conversation moving and show you're willing to work together.

Pynchon suggests things like: "Seems like that took you by surprise. Tell me more..."; "What is the budget for this position based on?" or; "How can I help you move more in my direction?"

34. Don't Be Afraid to Counter

If you ask for a higher salary and the employer says no? Doesn't mean the conversation's over.

Try this, says Thorman: "I understand where you're coming from, and just want to reiterate my enthusiasm for the position and working with you and the team. I think my skills are perfectly suited for this position, and are worth $65,000."

35. But Don't Make Threats

Again, you ideally want to work (or keep working) with this person, so it's important to keep the conversation positive. "Whatever you do, don't threaten to leave if you don't get the raise," Smith reports. "You also shouldn't threaten your boss with other job offers, interviews, [or] recruiter conversations."

36. Consider Other Options

If your boss (or the hiring manager) really, really won't budge? Try negotiating for flex time, more vacation time, a better title, or plum projects and assignments.

Here's how to ask for each, courtesy of LearnVest.

37. Keep Negotiating

If this seems like a lot-well, unfortunately, it is. Negotiation is a complicated process with volumes of books on techniques, tactics, and scripts.

The good news? The more you do it, the easier it becomes. Even better, the more money you'll bring home! So, get out there and start negotiating. You've now got the skills to do it right.

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Don't let those phone interviews sneak up on you. They may seem minor compared to later-stage or in-person interviews, but you'll still need to do well in order to get to the next round. Just like your resume should be tailored to each job posting, your phone interview answers should be reflective of the job you applied to. But when you're trying to come up with specific, targeted answers on the spot, nerves can get the better of you.

That's where our phone interview cheat sheet comes in. Phone interviews offer an advantage that in-person and video interviews lack: Your interviewer isn't looking at you and can't see what you have in front of you. So you can use notes!

That doesn't mean you should be reading off a script the entire time, of course. Your interviewer will be able to tell if you wrote down your answers to common phone interview questions and are reciting them verbatim rather than focusing on having a conversation and making a connection with the person you're talking to.

You can use our phone interview cheat sheet to prepare a few key points ahead of time to serve as reminders. We've purposely designed it to not have a lot of room for your answers: Boiling things down to a few important words and phrases will remind you of the essentials while allowing you to keep your answers natural and spontaneous.

Download the phone interview cheat sheet here-and read on for tips on filling it out before your next phone interview.

Possible Start Date

In a preliminary phone interview, you might be asked when you'd be able to start. Sometimes companies are looking to fill a role as soon as possible, and other times they're just trying to plan ahead. Be honest here. If you can start right away, say so. If not, figure out what a feasible start date would be based on the amount of notice you'd need to give your current employer and any other factors you need to consider.

"Tell Me About Yourself."

" Tell me about yourself" is often the first thing an interviewer will say after confirming that it's still a good time to talk. They're not asking for your life story. This question is really: "Tell me about yourself as it pertains to this job." And when you answer, you want to set the tone for the rest of your interview by making it clear why this is the right job for you and why you're the right person for the job.

A simple way to format your answer is:

Present: Talk about what you're doing now, with an emphasis on how it relates to the job you're interviewing for.

Past: Give a brief overview of your past experience that is very relevant to the role you're applying for.

Future: Explain what you're looking for in your next role. (Hint: It should be a lot of the same things this job offers, but be honest about what drew you to it.)

While it might be helpful to write your thoughts out fully ahead of your interview, you shouldn't do it on your cheat sheet. Instead, keep each bullet to a few words or phrases to remind yourself what you most wanted to bring up.

And be ready to respond to follow-up questions about your experience, working style, and preferences, like, " How do you like to be managed?," or, " What type of work environment do you prefer." Be truthful-and use the information on this sheet to help you keep this specific job in mind when answering.

Key Skills and Accomplishments

To fill in this section, look at the job description for the role. Take note of the skills and experiences they emphasize. (Ideally, you have most of them.) Jot them down. And if you have a past accomplishment that really shows your expertise in one of these areas, write down any highlights or key numbers that help quantify your success.

Key Stories

In most interviews, you'll get a few behavioral questions like, " Tell me about a time you demonstrated leadership skills," or, " Tell me about a time you made a mistake." These are questions where you have to tell a story about what you did in the past in order to show how you handled different situations (and how you're likely to handle them in the future).

You can't predict exactly which behavioral questions you'll get, but if you have a few polished stories, you should be able to adapt them to multiple situations. So you might come up with examples of a time you overcame a challenge, a time you worked on something interesting or significant, and a time you made a mistake. However, depending on your field, other stories might be more useful. For instance, if you're in a client- or customer-facing role, you might want to think about a time that you dealt with an unhappy customer or client.

For the cheat sheet, give each story a title that reminds you what happened and add any numbers or specific details that might be difficult to recall in the moment.

Why Does This Job Excite You?

You may not be asked this question in exactly these words, but at some point you'll have the chance to talk about why you want the job. So think it through: Why did you apply? What in the description makes you think, "Wow, I hope I get this!"? What does this job have that your current job doesn't and that you want?

Focus on the specific role and fill in two or three reasons you want this job in particular. For example, maybe you're looking for a job with more client interaction or maybe you're passionate about the industry this company is in. Articulating your reasoning here will also help you talk about why you're leaving your current role if asked, since it's best to keep your answer positive and put an emphasis on what you're looking for in the future rather than what you didn't like about the past.

Regardless, steer clear of saying you're excited about a position for the pay. It's unspoken that you'd be getting money to do the job. But every job pays. Your interviewer wants to know why you want this one. If you have a logistical reason for applying, such as having to relocate to a different city with a partner, it's fine to bring that up, but make sure it's not the first or only thing you mention.

Pro tip: In addition to asking what drew you to this role, the interviewer might want to know how you found it in the first place. Be straightforward. Even if you didn't find out about the opening through your network or another interesting avenue, the company might just be interested in how quality applicants are discovering their postings.

Why Do You Want to Work Here?

Take another look at the job description, but this time focus on how the company describes itself. Check out the company's website and see if they have a profile on The Muse. Take note of any unique elements in their values, workplace, or benefits that excite you or match well with your work style and personality. After that, head to social media and Google. Has the company been in the news for anything cool? Is there an aspect of their company culture that you'd love to be part of?

All of this will help you get a general sense of the work environment and also help you see what the company is working on that you want to be part of. (Read more about researching a company here.)

Identify the top three things that make you enthusiastic about working for this company and summarize them in a few words for your cheat sheet. Try to make at least one of them about the work the company is doing and how you want to contribute. For example, maybe the company is rebranding and that's something you've done before, so you're eager to bring your experience to the table.

What Are Your Salary Requirements?

Questions about money can always be tricky-especially if you're trying to think up an answer on the spot. This isn't a topic you want to bring up first, but in case you're asked, you'll want to take a bit of time before your phone interview to research the average pay range for similar positions in your geographic area and figure out where you fall in that range (based on your experience and qualifications). You can always try to defer the conversation to a later stage in the hiring process, but it helps to be prepared in the event that this strategy doesn't work.

Questions to Ask

There are a lot of questions you might want to ask in any interview, but you want to narrow it down and be prepared with the ones you'd like to bring up on this particular call. Make sure you have a few questions ready to go that are specific to this interview based on the role, team, company, and where you are in the application process. Maybe you want to know more about a project the company recently announced or a program or approach they're known for. This shows you've done your homework and really care about the role.

For this section only, it's okay to write things out more fully. When your interviewer asks for your questions, they're expecting you to take a beat to think about things, so you'll have time to refer to your notes.

Since a lot of the information here is specific to each role, you should fill out a new cheat sheet for every phone interview you do. Even if you don't end up referring to it at all during your call, the act of organizing your thoughts ahead of time will help you get excited about the role and company, present yourself as the best person for the job, and get you to the next round.

Regina Borsellino is a former editor at The Muse, where she covered job search and career advice, particularly resume best practices, interviewing, remote work, and personal and professional development. Before The Muse, Regina was an editor for InvestorPlace, where she also wrote about topics such as investing and biotech companies. She holds a BA in English language and literature from the University of Maryland and an MFA in creative writing from American University. Find her on LinkedIn and Twitter.

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This template will help you organize your thoughts and customize your answers for every phone interview.