When Does the Interview Actually Start? (Spoiler: It’s Earlier Than You Think)

Most people think the interview begins the moment you sit down across from a hiring manager or log into a Zoom meeting. The truth? The interview starts much earlier than that. Every step of your job search—resume, emails, scheduling, conversations, even your thank-you note—is part of how an employer evaluates you.

1. Your Resume & Cover Letter: The First Impression

Your resume and cover letter are more than just documents—they’re your first real impression. They tell the story of your skills, career, and potential fit.

• Tailor your materials: Adjust your resume and cover letter to highlight the skills and experience most relevant to the role.
• Check the details: Typos, formatting issues, or inconsistent dates can raise red flags.
• Use a professional email address: Firstname.Lastname@email.com is perfect. A quirky email from college? Not so much.

Why it matters: These materials set expectations and frame how the hiring team sees you before you ever speak to them.

2. Scheduling: Yes, That Counts Too

It may feel routine, but even how you handle scheduling is part of the interview.

• Reply promptly when you receive an email or calendar request.
• Be flexible and polite when suggesting times.
• Double-check your availability before confirming—rescheduling later can send the wrong message.

Message you’re sending: You’re respectful of others’ time, organized, and easy to work with—qualities that stand out.

3. Your Online Presence: The Silent Interview

Employers often look beyond your application materials. That means your digital footprint matters.

• Review your LinkedIn profile and make sure it’s up to date.
• Google yourself—see what they’ll see.
• Adjust privacy settings or clean up any personal social media posts that may not show you in a professional light.

Why it matters: Employers want to feel confident about your judgment, both on and off the job. A professional online presence backs up the impression you’re making in your application.

4. The Interview: The Conversation That Brings It All Together

This is the part everyone prepares for—but it’s just one piece of the process. Remember that a critical piece of preparation is research – review the company’s website and be familiar with the most up to date information.

• For phone or video screens: Test your technology ahead of time, use a quiet space, and make sure your background is distraction-free.
• For in-person meetings: Arrive 10–15 minutes early, bring copies of your resume, and be courteous to everyone you meet along the way—each interaction reflects on you.
• During the interview: Listen actively, keep your responses relevant and on-topic, and show curiosity by asking thoughtful questions that show you have researched the company.

Why it matters: Employers are assessing not only your skills, but also how you communicate, prepare, and connect with others.

5. The Thank-You Note: The Follow-Through

Sending a thank-you note is more than a courtesy—it’s part of your interview.

• Send it within 24 hours.
• Personalize it by referencing something specific from the conversation.
• Keep it short, professional, and genuine.

Why it matters: It reinforces your professionalism, shows gratitude, and demonstrates you value the opportunity.

Final Takeaway

Think of the “interview” as a series of moments, not a single event. Your resume, your communication, your online presence, your conversations, and your follow-up all play a part in shaping how an employer sees you. Every interaction is an opportunity to show you’re the right fit.