How to nail your interview: 6 Tips from the Finyard’s hiring team
Interviews can feel stressful, and understandably so. They’re important moments that can shape your next career step. At Finyard, we believe the best interviews don’t feel like interviews, but rather meaningful conversations exploring whether it’s the right fit for both sides.
Our recruiters communicate with hundreds of candidates every month and over time, they’ve noticed some clear patterns in what helps applicants truly stand out. Whether you’re applying for a tech role, a creative position, or something entirely different, these tips are here to help you feel confident, authentic, and ready to shine.
1. Prepare your tech and space
With most interviews now taking place online, your camera, environment, and overall presence matter just as much as what you say.
Turning on your camera is essential. Without it, you miss the chance to build trust through eye contact, body language, and natural engagement. Take a few minutes before the call to check your internet connection, camera, and microphone. If something isn’t working, it’s far better to reschedule than spend valuable time troubleshooting on the spot.
Find a quiet, distraction-free space that shows you’re present and taking the opportunity seriously.
2. Tell a story, not a timeline
There’s no need to walk through your entire CV. Focus instead on the parts of your experience that are most relevant to the role. Over-polished sales pitches rarely land well; what interviewers respond to is calm, specific, and authentic storytelling. Pretending to be someone you’re not only adds pressure and makes you sound less confident.
3. Be honest and specific
Honesty is attractive. We encourage candidates to talk openly about what they don’t know. Saying “I haven’t worked with that yet” earns far more respect than giving vague or generic answers. The same applies when discussing challenges or failures – being candid shows maturity and self-awareness.
Likewise, if you’re still figuring out whether the role is right for you, it’s perfectly fine to say so. Exploring different roles and looking for something that truly inspires you is more compelling than pretending to be interested in something you are not sure about.
At the same time, try to avoid general claims like “I’m a team player” or “I work well under pressure”. They might sound good, but without real examples, they can come across as overused or even a bit insincere. If something really reflects who you are, it’s better to show it through a story or situation. Specifics always speak louder and help the interviewer understand how you actually work.
4. Share what motivates you
Being upfront about your motivations, whether it’s seeking more impact, responsibility, or a new direction, helps interviewers understand your goals. Even if compensation is part of the picture, framing it in the context of your broader career aspirations will come across as more thoughtful. Candidates who reflect on what kind of experience they want next always stand out.
5. Ask questions that matter
While you’re being assessed, you’re also evaluating the company. It’s your chance to learn if this is the right place for you. Finyard’s team appreciates candidates who are curious and thoughtful. So, don’t hesitate to ask about things that really matter to you: the way the team works together, how decisions are made, what growth looks like, or what the company is excited about next. A real conversation always beats a one-sided Q&A.
6. Be real and let your energy speak
You don’t need to be super outgoing or perfectly polished, just be yourself. People connect with energy and authenticity more than with rehearsed answers. The way you show up, whether calm, curious, focused, enthusiastic, or even a little nervous, is already part of the impression you make. Remember, you’re not just interviewing for a job, you’re also meeting your future teammates. So, let your real self show, and pay attention to theirs too.
Conclusion
Interviews are not only about showing that you’re qualified; it’s about discovering whether a role, team, and company align with who you are and where you want to grow.
At Finyard, we value authenticity, curiosity, and the ability to communicate what truly matters to you. We’re not looking for scripted answers, we’re looking for real people with unique perspectives and a drive to make an impact.
If you’re exploring new possibilities and want to be part of something meaningful, check out Finyard’s open positions and see where your journey could take you.
Instagram
Facebook