5 simple (but powerful) ways to shine in your design interview.

I’m always chatting with designers who are amazing at what they do, but not always the best at selling themselves in their design interview. They’re talented, passionate and genuinely great at their craft, but when it comes to interviews, it’s often the little things that can cause the whole conversation to go downhill fast.

The thing is, design interviews aren’t just about your skills on paper. They’re about connection. You’ve only got a few minutes to make a first impression. And like it or not, most hiring managers are already forming an opinion in that opening window. That’s why things like how you set up your space, how you talk about your work, and how you show up really matter.

This isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being yourself and being personable in a way that helps people remember you for the right reasons.

Here are five simple yet effective, real-world tips I’ve compiled to help you show up with confidence for your design interview, articulate your experience clearly, and let your personality shine through.

Tip 1: Be specific and don't start at the beginning of time

This is such a common one. Someone asks, “So, tell me about your experience,” and suddenly we’re back in 1995 talking about your very first design job. No, no, no! Please don’t start at the beginning of time.

Instead, start with what’s most recent and relevant to the role you’re applying for. Think about what the hiring manager actually wants to know, how your current or recent experience lines up with what they need and most importantly, how your skills are going to solve their problems.

Frame it like this: “In my most recent role, I was doing XYZ, which I think aligns well with what you’re doing in this space.” Keep it clear and focused, and trust that if they want more detail about your earlier work, they’ll ask (but I promise they won’t).

Tip 2: Set up your video space before the design interview

I know this sounds like basic advice, but it’s one of the easiest ways to look switched on. Just take five minutes before the call to check your camera angle, lighting and what’s behind you. No piles of laundry, no open fridge doors, and ideally no housemates or kids wandering into the frame mid-sentence.

Remember that iconic BBC interview where the guy was live on air and his kids burst into the room? Still makes me laugh to this day, but it’s probably not the vibe you want when you're trying to land a job.

Hiring managers probably won’t notice that you’ve gone to the trouble, but I can promise you they will notice if you haven’t. Don’t leave that first impression to chance.

Tip 3: Pay attention to your eye contact and body language

Even on video, how you hold yourself says a lot. If you’re looking down or off to the side the whole time, fidgeting, or shifting in your seat, it can make you come across as unsure, even if you’re not.

Just a bit of awareness goes a long way. Look at the camera when you're speaking, sit comfortably, and stay present in the conversation. It’s less about performance and more about being calm, clear and engaged.

Tip 4: Dress the part for your design interview (without losing your style)

This one’s important. You don’t need to show up in a three-piece suit, but putting in a little effort really does go a long way. I’ve seen it all. Hoodies with the hood up. Singlets straight from the beach. And the most memorable one? Someone eating an entire lunch during the interview, answering questions in between mouthfuls of food. I wish I were joking.

We work in creative industries, and it’s a good thing to show your personality. I love it when someone brings their style and individuality to the conversation. But it still needs to feel considered. There’s a difference between expressing yourself and looking like you joined the wrong video link in the middle of a workout.

You don’t need to be formal. Just wear something that says, “I care about this opportunity, and I’ve made the effort to show up well.” Be yourself, but maybe the version of yourself who’s not mid-bite or fresh off the beach.

Tip 5: Do your research before your design interview

Before your design interview, have a quick look at who you’ll be chatting with. Jump on LinkedIn, check out their background, and see what kind of work they’ve done. You don’t have to bring it up straight away, but it gives you great context and a bit of an edge if there’s an opportunity to connect on something specific.

Even just saying, “I saw you worked on XYZ project, would love to hear more about that,” can shift the tone of the conversation. It shows you’re prepared, interested and thinking beyond just landing the job.

That's a wrap

I hope these tips help you prepare for your next interview. Honestly, it’s often the little things about how you show up, what you lead with and the energy you bring that leave the biggest impression.If there’s something else you’d like me to cover in another series, let me know. And if we’re not already connected, say hi on LinkedIn.

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