Before the interview 

✓ NDA signed (if applicable) 
✓ CV tailored to the hiring company 
✓ Understood the interview structure 
✓ Participated in preparation / simulation 
✓ Researched the hiring company 
✓ Prepared ~10 relevant questions 
✓ Clear, structured self-presentation ready 
✓ Examples of achievements rehearsed 
✓ Notebook and pen prepared 
✓ Professional clothing selected 

During the interview 

Communication 

✓ Speak clearly and confidently 
✓ Keep steady eye contact 
✓ Smile, be dynamic and attentive 
✓ Avoid negative words—use constructive framing 
✓ Use “us” when possible 
✓ Pause 1–2 seconds before answering 
✓ Reformulate to show understanding 

Behavior 

✓ Sit straight, avoid nervous movements 
✓ Avoid playing with objects (pen, phone) 
✓ Show genuine interest 
✓ Take notes 
✓ Ask smart, open questions 

Content 

✓ Ask about team, success criteria, roadmap, support 
✓ Confirm understanding of the project 
✓ Present experience aligned to project needs 
✓ Validate each step with the hiring company 
✓ Express motivation (“This is an interesting project…”) 

Handling difficult questions 

✓ Unknown technology → Ask for clarification 
✓ Salary/rate → Ask the budget for the respective role 
✓ Sensitive topics → Decline politely 
✓ Availability → Ask for their ideal date first 

After the interview 

✓ Leave when asked (debrief happens without you) 
✓ Participate in your own debrief 
✓ Share positives and improvement points 
✓ Decide your warm OK/NOK 
✓ Align on next steps 

⚠️ Never assume the project is won.