How to Prepare for an Interview in Under 10 Minutes: Essential Tips to Impress Hiring Managers

January 6, 2025 developer

Preparing for a job interview can often feel like an overwhelming task, especially if you’re short on time. However, even with just 10 minutes to spare, you can make a lasting impression on a hiring manager. Whether it’s for your dream job or a freelance project, strategic preparation in a limited time can help you present your best self.

Here are crucial tips, powerful words to use, and effective questions to ask that will enhance your chances of success.

1. Crucial Tips to Help You Impress the Hiring Manager in 10 Minutes

Here are crucial tips to help you maximize your 10 minutes:

A. Review the Job Description and Your Resume

Spend a few minutes quickly reviewing the job description to ensure you understand what the hiring manager is looking for. This will allow you to tailor your answers, even if you’re pressed for time. Align your skills, experience, and personal qualities with the job’s requirements, highlighting how you can add value.

Tip: Jot down 2–3 key points that show how your experience directly matches the job. This quick mental review will help you hit the ground running.

B. Focus on Your Elevator Pitch

In an interview, you will often be asked to introduce yourself. This is your chance to present a concise summary of your background, skills, and passion. Rehearse your pitch in your mind to ensure it’s smooth and confident. Aim for 30 seconds to 1 minute, and be sure to emphasize what makes you stand out.

Tip: Make sure your elevator pitch conveys not only your qualifications but also your enthusiasm for the role and the company.

C. Plan Your Key Achievements

Hiring managers want to hear about specific accomplishments. In under 10 minutes, identify 2–3 key achievements that demonstrate your ability to contribute in the role.

Focus on measurable results like increasing sales, improving efficiency, or solving complex problems.

Tip: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure these examples. Even in a short prep time, this method ensures clarity and impact.

D. Think About Your Body Language

Non-verbal cues play a significant role in interviews. Focus on maintaining good posture, making eye contact, and offering a firm handshake. In the rush of last-minute prep, don’t overlook the power of your body language in creating a positive first impression.

Tip: Practice a few power poses to boost your confidence before the interview.

E. Dress Appropriately

Appearance matters. Ensure your clothes are appropriate for the company culture and the role. Even if you only have 10 minutes to prepare, do a quick check to make sure you look neat, professional, and polished.

Tip: Choose clothing that reflects the company’s culture. For example, if you’re applying to a creative agency, a smart-casual outfit may work; for a corporate job, business attire is best.

2. 8 Brilliant Words to Use in Your Interview to Stand Out

Words matter, and how you describe yourself in an interview can help you stand out in the eyes of a hiring manager. These eight powerful words are not only positive but also resonate with hiring managers who are looking for candidates who bring value, problem-solving ability, and a strong work ethic.

A. Adaptable

In today’s rapidly changing work environments, being adaptable is one of the most desirable traits for an employee. Use this word to highlight your flexibility and willingness to learn.

Example: “I’m adaptable and thrive in dynamic environments, which is why I am confident I can excel in this role as the company evolves.”

B. Proactive

Hiring managers value candidates who can take initiative and anticipate needs. “Proactive” is a strong word that conveys your drive to take action before problems arise.

Example: “I’ve always been proactive in identifying areas for improvement and taking steps to streamline processes without waiting for instructions.”

C. Resourceful

Being resourceful indicates that you are capable of solving problems using the available tools and knowledge. It’s a great word to describe your ability to overcome challenges.

Example: “I’m resourceful when tackling complex issues, and I’m not afraid to think outside the box to find creative solutions.”

D. Detail-Oriented

Being detail-oriented is crucial for many roles, especially in fields like data analysis, project management, or quality assurance. This term shows your precision and commitment to getting things right.

Example: “As a detail-oriented professional, I ensure accuracy in every task, whether it’s proofreading documents or analyzing data trends.”

E. Collaborative

Teamwork is essential in almost every workplace. By using “collaborative,” you show that you can work well with others and contribute to a positive team environment.

Example: “I’m collaborative and value open communication with my colleagues, which I believe leads to more effective team problem-solving.”

F. Innovative

Innovation is highly valued, especially in industries that require constant improvement. This word reflects your creative thinking and ability to bring fresh ideas to the table.

Example: “I am always looking for innovative ways to enhance productivity, whether it’s by adopting new technologies or improving internal processes.”

G. Dependable

Reliability is a quality that hiring managers can’t overlook. By using “dependable,” you convey that you can be trusted to meet deadlines and manage responsibilities.

Example: “I’m a dependable team member who always meets deadlines and takes ownership of my tasks, ensuring that nothing falls through the cracks.”

H. Driven

Describing yourself as “driven” shows that you are motivated and goal-oriented. It signals to the hiring manager that you have a strong desire to succeed and achieve results.

Example: “I’m driven to excel in every project I undertake, ensuring that I not only meet expectations but exceed them.”

3. 3 Brilliant Questions to Ask at the End of Your Interview

Asking insightful questions at the end of the interview shows that you are engaged, curious, and genuinely interested in the role and the company. It also provides you with valuable information about the work environment, expectations, and culture. Here are three questions that will boost your chances of success:

A. “What does success look like in this role, and how do you measure it?”

This question shows that you are goal-oriented and want to understand how you can make an impact right from the start. It also demonstrates your desire to align with the company’s expectations and contribute meaningfully to the team.

Why it’s effective: It helps you understand what the company values in terms of performance, allowing you to tailor your approach once you start the job. It also signals to the hiring manager that you are motivated to meet and exceed those expectations.

B. “Can you describe the team culture and how collaboration is encouraged here?”

Asking about team culture gives you insight into the work environment, helping you decide if it’s a good fit for you. It also highlights your interest in fostering relationships and working as part of a cohesive team.

Why it’s effective: It shows you care about the work culture and are looking for a place where you can grow, work well with others, and contribute positively to the team dynamics.

C. “What opportunities for growth and development exist within this role or department?”

This question highlights your long-term commitment to the role and shows that you are serious about professional development. Hiring managers appreciate candidates who think about growth and how they can contribute to the company in the future.

Why it’s effective: It indicates that you are interested in staying with the company for the long haul and are willing to take on new challenges and responsibilities. It also gives you insight into potential career paths.

Conclusion: Make Every Minute Count

In just 10 minutes, you can prepare to make a strong impression at your interview. By reviewing the job description, preparing your elevator pitch, focusing on key achievements, and using powerful language, you can present yourself as the ideal candidate. Additionally, asking thoughtful questions at the end of the interview demonstrates your genuine interest in the role and company, further boosting your chances of success. With the right mindset and preparation, you can turn a short amount of time into a powerful interview performance.