Interviews can sometimes feel like a balancing act: look polished, present yourself confidently and leave a strong impression—all while still being authentic. At Gresham Smith, we are committed to a people-first approach where thoughtful communication, cultural fit and authenticity guide everything we do.
In this post, I’ll share how to fully prepare from head to toe and screen to screen, along with the key questions that can help you make a lasting impression. A successful interview comes not only from what you know technically, but also from how you show up. Whether you’re walking into an office or logging in virtually, the right preparation can help you stand out for all the right reasons.
Suit Up or Dress Down? Finding the Balance Between Polished and Approachable
When preparing for an interview, attire is often one of the first decisions a candidate makes. While it might seem like a simple choice, what you wear sends an important message about how you understand both the role and the company’s culture. The challenge? Interview dress codes vary widely across industries and organizational settings. Some industries continue to value a more formal approach. In sectors such as finance, law and government, business professional attire like suits, ties and tailored dresses remains the standard. In contrast, fields like technology, advertising and design frequently adopt a more casual culture, where polished but less formal clothing may be more fitting. Equally important as industry standards is understanding the company’s unique atmosphere. A healthcare administrative office might call for business casual, while a design agency may welcome originality. Candidates can research this by reviewing company websites, team photos or professional networks like LinkedIn to get a sense of what employees typically wear.
Striking the Right Balance
Ultimately, candidates should aim for attire that is:
- Appropriate: Aligned with the industry standard.
- Authentic: Reflective of the company’s atmosphere.
- Professional: Neat, polished, and respectful of the occasion.
By choosing attire thoughtfully, candidates can feel confident in how they present themselves, allowing the focus to remain where it belongs: on their skills, qualifications and potential fit within the team.
Nailing the Virtual Interview: Tech, Tone & Presence
In hybrid and remote environments, virtual interviews are as important as those in-person, and appearance is just the start. Here are some best practices to help your presence shine through the screen:
- Lighting: Natural light is your best friend. Face a window when possible, or use a lamp placed behind your screen for flattering, even lighting.
- Background: Aim for a clean, uncluttered space. A neutral wall or tidy office setting keeps the focus on you.
- Tech checks: Test your internet connection, camera, and microphone beforehand. Restart your computer if needed and ensure notifications are silenced.
- Camera presence: Keep your camera at eye level to simulate natural conversation. Looking into the lens instead of just the screen can help create a stronger sense of connection.
- Body language: Sit up straight and avoid crossing arms. Small nods, good posture and leaning in slightly show engagement.
Virtual interviews may feel less formal. However, professional conduct matters just as much. Preparation signals respect and helps you connect meaningfully, even through a screen.
Ask Better Questions: Let Your Curiosity Speak for You
The questions you bring to an interview reveal as much about your potential fit as the answers you provide. They show that you are not simply pursuing any job, but are intentionally seeking to contribute to an organization with purpose and meaning. By asking thoughtful, well-crafted questions, you demonstrate genuine curiosity and alignment with the organization’s culture and vision.
In final interviews especially, this is your opportunity to move beyond surface-level inquiries. Focus on deeper, strategic topics such as leadership style, role ownership and long-term growth opportunities. Here are ten thoughtful questions to consider that show interest, preparation and maturity:
1. How would you describe the company’s culture in three words?
2. What qualities help someone thrive in this role?
3. Can you share an example of a current or recent project and how the team approached it?
4. How does this role interact with other departments?
5. What are the team’s biggest priorities over the next six months?
6. How do you define success for this position?
7. How are new employees supported as they onboard and get to know the company?
8. What professional growth opportunities exist here?
9. How does leadership seek and act on employee feedback?
10. What do you personally enjoy most about working at this company?
These kinds of questions not only give you valuable insights, but also demonstrate that you are invested in finding the right fit for both you and the company.
Final Thought
Interviews are your opportunity to make a lasting impression by balancing a polished appearance with authenticity. Dressing in polished business professional attire, presenting yourself confidently in virtual settings and asking thoughtful questions all show that you’re ready to be part of a collaborative, people-first culture. At Gresham Smith, we believe an interview should be a two-way conversation, an exchange that evaluates skills while also uncovering values, curiosity and cultural fit. When you approach interviews with both preparation and your genuine self, you accomplish more than just leaving a good impression. You create connection.
