Summary:
When it comes to job interviews—especially for executive-level roles—preparation isn’t just about knowing your resume. It’s about choosing the right setting, the right mindset, and showing you respect the opportunity. In this article, I share two recent real-world examples where candidates lost out on great roles simply because they weren’t in the right place (literally or figuratively) for the interview.
Interview Prep 101: Why Where You Interview Matters More Than You Think
By Scott Driggs, CEO, Driggs Search International
I’ve been doing executive search for 25+ years, and here’s something I’ve learned:
Even the most qualified candidate can lose a job opportunity if they don’t take the interview seriously.
That includes how you prepare, how you show up, and yes—where you choose to take the interview.
Over the past two weeks, I witnessed two situations that serve as cautionary tales.
🚫 Case #1: The Parking Lot Walker
One candidate, interviewing for a high-level executive position, joined a video interview from a parking lot—walking around the whole time. Audio was inconsistent. The background was distracting. And more importantly, it gave the impression that the interview wasn’t worth stopping their day for.
🚫 Case #2: The Car Confessional
Another candidate joined from their car, trying to balance preparation and answers while clearly uncomfortable and distracted. The lighting was poor, the setting was awkward, and it was clear they couldn’t refer to any notes or fully focus.
Both were qualified. Both had potential.
Neither got a second interview.
✅ Why Environment Matters in an Interview
When you’re interviewing, especially for leadership roles, you’re not just being assessed for your skills. You’re being assessed for how you carry yourself, how you handle pressure, and how seriously you take the process.
Here’s why interview setting and preparation matter more than most candidates realize:
1. First Impressions Are Formed Instantly
If you’re in a noisy, unprofessional setting, it sends a message: This isn’t a priority. That one impression can cancel out everything on your resume.
2. Distractions Affect Your Performance
Whether it’s background noise, a bad connection, or needing to hold your phone while talking, a poor setup takes away from your ability to be present, articulate, and polished.
3. Respect for the Process = Respect for the Role
Being in a focused, professional setting tells the interviewer:
“I respect your time, I value this opportunity, and I came prepared to show it.”
How to Set Yourself Up for Interview Success
If you want to stand out—in a good way—follow these simple but powerful guidelines:
✅ Choose a quiet, private space with no distractions
✅ Test your internet connection, camera, and audio beforehand
✅ Use a laptop or computer, not a phone
✅ Sit upright at a desk with good lighting (natural light or a ring light works great)
✅ Keep your resume, notes, and questions handy
✅ Dress professionally, even if it’s a virtual call
✅ Look into the camera, not your own image on screen
✅ Block off extra time so you’re not rushing to your next thing
You only get one chance to make a great first impression. Show up in a way that reflects the level of the position you’re interviewing for.
The Bottom Line
Great preparation is more than knowing the job—it’s about presenting yourself as a leader who is focused, composed, and ready to contribute.
You wouldn’t show up to an in-person executive meeting wearing gym clothes and taking calls from your car. So why would you show up to a virtual interview that way?
📚 Further Reading & Sources:
- Harvard Business Review: How to Prepare for a Virtual Interview
- Forbes: Virtual Job Interview Etiquette: What to Know Before You Zoom
- Indeed: 10 Tips to Prepare for a Video Interview
“Hiring the right leader can transform your business. Let Driggs Search International help you find that perfect match. Contact Scott Driggs today at scott@driggssearch.com or 801-253-1818.”