The big day has arrived—interview day! You’ve done your research, practiced your answers, and now it’s time to make a great first impression. But what do you wear? How do you sit? How do you make sure you don’t sweat through your shirt while trying to sound confident?

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to present yourself on interview day, from your outfit to your body language, and yes, even how to sit without looking like a nervous wreck.

Let’s start with the basics—what to wear. Your outfit should be professional and appropriate for the company’s culture. If you’re interviewing at a corporate office, go for a suit and tie or a professional dress. If it’s a startup, you might opt for business casual, like a button-up shirt with slacks or a blouse with a skirt.

And please, whatever you do, don’t wear anything too flashy or distracting. This isn’t the time to show off your neon green tie or leopard print heels. Keep it simple, classy, and comfortable.

Pro tip: Make sure your clothes are clean, ironed, and well-fitting. You don’t want to look like you just rolled out of bed or borrowed your dad’s suit.

Now that you’re dressed to impress, let’s talk about how to sit during the interview. When you walk into the room, wait until the interviewer offers you a seat. Once seated, sit up straight with your feet flat on the floor and your hands resting on your lap or on the table.

Avoid slouching, crossing your arms, or fidgeting with your hands. You want to look attentive, engaged, and confident—not like you’re counting down the seconds until you can escape.

Pro tip: Lean in slightly when the interviewer is speaking to show you’re interested. Just don’t get too close—personal space is still a thing!

Next up, how to talk during the interview. First and foremost, be yourself. Don’t try to sound like someone you’re not—interviewers can spot fake enthusiasm from a mile away. Speak clearly, confidently, and at a moderate pace. There’s no need to rush through your answers, but also don’t drag them out.

When answering questions, take a moment to think before you speak. This will help you avoid rambling or saying something you’ll regret later. And remember to smile! A genuine smile goes a long way in making a positive impression.

Pro tip: If you’re nervous, take a deep breath before answering each question. It’ll help calm your nerves and give you a moment to collect your thoughts.

Confidence is key in an interview, but it’s easier said than done. If you’re not feeling super confident, that’s okay—just fake it till you make it. Even if you’re shaking like a leaf on the inside, try to project an air of calm and self-assurance.

Make eye contact with the interviewer, sit up straight, and avoid nervous habits like tapping your foot or biting your nails. The more confident you appear, the more confident you’ll feel.

Pro tip: Remember that the interviewer wants you to do well. They’re not there to trip you up or make you feel uncomfortable—they’re just trying to find the best person for the job. So, take a deep breath and go for it!

You’re dressed, seated, and talking like a pro—now what do you do when the interviewer throws a curveball question your way? Don’t panic! Take a moment to think about your answer, and if you’re not sure, it’s okay to ask for clarification.

If you really don’t know the answer, it’s better to be honest than to make something up. You can say something like, “I’m not sure about that, but I’m eager to learn more,” or “That’s a great question—let me take a moment to think about it.”

Pro tip: Prepare for tricky questions in advance by practicing with a friend or family member. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll feel when the real thing comes along.

Interview day can be nerve-wracking, but with the right preparation and mindset, you’ll be ready to tackle it like a pro. Remember to dress appropriately, sit up straight, speak confidently, and, most importantly, be yourself.