Interview Etiquette in 2026: Modern Tips Every Job Seeker Should Know

You’re five minutes early for your virtual interview.

Camera on, smile ready... but your brain won’t stop running through your prep list: Is my background tidy? Should I say hello or wave when the interviewer logs in? Did I rehearse my answers enough?

Interview etiquette used to be simple: firm handshake, polished shoes, follow-up note. But between hybrid work, evolving norms and new generations joining the workforce, the “rules” have changed.

Today, interview etiquette is more about awareness, authenticity and respect — the soft skills that make a lasting first impression and help you connect with the person on the other side of the (virtual) hiring table.

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How interview etiquette has evolved  

Today, most hiring managers are less focused on perfection in an interview and more focused on presence. For example, they want to see signs of your curiosity and professionalism and how you make others feel in the room (or on screen).

Modern etiquette means reading the room, showing self-awareness and being authentic while staying polished, but not overly formal.

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Why etiquette still matters, even in a hybrid world

When it comes to interviews, etiquette is essentially professional empathy. It shows that you understand how to respect someone’s time, space and communication style.

In an interview, your behaviour bridges two mental systems:

• System 1 (first impressions): Snap judgments based on things like tone, confidence, body language and even cognitive biases.

• System 2 (reasoning): The logical, thoughtful part of thinking, including questions, answers and examples.

The magic happens when both align, and you leave the interviewer thinking, “This candidate would be great to work with.”

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The rules that still matter (and why)

Each of these has stood the test of time, with a modern twist.

1. Be on time — digitally and physically

If your interview is virtual, log in 3-5 minutes early. Be sure to check your tech, lighting, background and camera angle beforehand. In-person interview? Arrive 10-15 minutes early and plan for traffic or transit surprises.

Why it still matters: Punctuality shows respect for someone’s time.

2. Do your homework

Research the company’s mission, culture and leadership (including the person interviewing you), in addition to their products or services. During the interview, mention something specific that resonated with you. For example, you might say, “I noticed your team recently launched a mentorship program for new grads. I really value that kind of workplace development.”

Why it still matters: Preparation demonstrates genuine interest, which signals engagement.

3. Show genuine enthusiasm

Let the interviewer see that you want the job, without acting overly eager. Smile, maintain good eye contact and express curiosity to learn more about the role and company.

Why it still matters: Positive energy stands out more than credentials alone.

4. Listen actively

Show that you’re paying close attention by maintaining eye contact, nodding, pausing before responding and avoiding interrupting. Active listening is a top leadership skill.

Why it still matters: It demonstrates maturity, patience and strong communication.

5. Follow up

Send a thoughtful thank-you email within 24-48 hours to stand out from other candidates. Keep it short, specifically mention something the interviewer said and always check for typos before sending, making sure to spell the interviewer’s name and company name correctly. Here’s a handy template you can make your own:

Subject: Thank you for today’s conversation

Hi [Interviewer’s Name],

Thank you for taking the time to meet with me today. I really enjoyed learning more about [Company, team or project] and the [Role title]. I’m excited about the opportunity to bring my [relevant skill] to [Company name] and contribute to [goal or project].

Wishing you a great rest of the week,

[Your Name]

Why it still matters: Gratitude never goes out of style — and it helps keep you top of mind.

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Etiquette that’s better left in the past

Here are a few outdated moves we can retire in 2026:

1. The firm handshake

Aside from the fact that most interviews are now conducted virtually, handshakes are optional, depending on the person’s comfort level and cultural background. You can always convey warmth and confidence through tone, body language, good posture and a friendly smile.

2. Overly formal greetings and attire

No need to use Mr./Miss/Mrs. — first names are fine unless told otherwise. And instead of “dress to impress,” you want to dress to fit the environment. Aim for clean, simple and slightly elevated from what you expect the team wears day to day. So, if the company’s website or social media photos show hoodies and sneakers, dress in smart business casual — something polished yet approachable.

Quick tip: When in doubt, choose neutrals and simplicity for a no-fail, camera-ready look.

3. Being coy about salary questions

In 2026, given the rise of pay transparency legislation across Canada, including an update that will take effect in Ontario on January 1, salary transparency will be even more common in job ads and at the hiring table. To get ready for “the money talk,” do your research and come prepared with a reasonable range that reflects your experience, market value and what you bring to the role.  

If you’re asked about your salary expectations, try this phrasing:  

“Based on my skills and experience, and considering the range provided, I’m targeting between $X and $X, but I’m open to discussing a fair offer that works for everyone.”  

Pro tip: Avoid mentioning personal expenses as a reason for wanting a specific range or saying, “I’ll take anything.” Remember, confidence signals self-awareness.

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Etiquette that matters more than ever

1. Digital awareness

For virtual interviews, make sure to test your camera, audio and Wi-Fi beforehand to avoid any tech hiccups. Mute notifications on both your phone and computer and use the interviewer’s preferred platform.

2. AI (Authentic Interaction)

In this age of AI-assisted interviews, where candidates are increasingly using AI tools to answer interview questions in real time, hiring managers will be actively monitoring the body language of all candidates, as well as the cadence of their answers. They’ll be looking to see if you’re reading from a device off-screen or pausing before answering each question (as you wait for the AI to catch up). They’ll also be listening for natural answers delivered in a genuine way. Be sure to maintain eye contact and let the conversation flow naturally. Focus on giving authentic, concise story-based answers using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). For tips, see our blog.

3. Respect for time

Stick to the scheduled time, avoid multitasking and keep answers clear and concise. Running long or rambling can signal a lack of focus or preparedness.

4. Follow-through

Reply to scheduling emails and post-interview follow-ups promptly. Keep in mind, recruiters and hiring teams are juggling multiple searches at once; follow up politely after five business days if you don’t hear back.

5. Professional online presence

Your LinkedIn headline, job titles and name should all match what’s on your resumé. This consistency across your personal brand builds trust before you even log into the interview.

6. Curiosity

Always ask 1-2 thoughtful questions at the end of the interview that show genuine interest in the role and company. It also helps you evaluate whether you want to work there. For ideas, see our blog.  

7. Emotional intelligence

If you sense the interviewer is short on time or energy, adjust your tone and pacing. Avoid oversharing or talking poorly about past managers or colleagues. Let the interviewer finish speaking before responding and mirror their body language to create a subtle connection. Emotional intelligence is the new etiquette.

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Mini toolkit: Putting modern manners into action

Here’s your interview etiquette toolkit — refined for 2026.

The 3-minute pre-interview checklist

• Confirm the meeting link, time and contact info

• Check your tech, lighting and background

• Review your key examples (STAR stories)

• Turn off your notifications to avoid distractions

• Put your cellphone away or turn it off

During the interview

• Listen actively, maintain eye contact, nod and smile

• Let the interviewer finish before speaking

• Avoid filler phrases, such as “as I said before”

• Keep your answers concise and relevant (2 mins per question is plenty)

The 24-HR follow-up formula

• Send a thank-you note within 24 hours

• Reiterate one memorable discussion point

• End with enthusiasm for the next steps

After the interview

• Reflect on what went well and jot down key details for future reference

• If you haven’t heard back after a week, send a short, polite follow-up email

Script you can customize:

“Hi [Name], I wanted to thank you again for meeting with me last week about the [role title]. I remain very interested in the position and your team’s work on [project or focus area]. Please let me know if there’s anything else I can provide to support the decision process.”

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Final thoughts: Interview etiquette is just respect in action

In today’s workplaces, showing up for an interview matters less about what you wear and how firm your handshake is and more about how prepared you are, as well as your emotional intelligence (i.e., being self-aware, curious and kind).

Whether you’re interviewing in person or on Zoom, the core principles are the same: arrive early, respect the interviewer’s time and treat the conversation as a two-way street.  

When you show up prepared, listen with intent and communicate with warmth and authenticity, you demonstrate the kind of professionalism every employer is looking for.

Ready to refine your interview strategy?

Explore more recruiter-approved advice from our team:

• 5 Questions to Ask During a Job Interview

• How to Use the STAR Method to Answer Behavioural Questions

• How to Write the Perfect Post-Interview Thank-You Email (with samples)

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Next step: Feeling interview-ready? Browse our current job openings and apply directly through our Job Portal to take your next career step.

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