Interview Tips for Aspiring Designers

Job interviews in the design and decor industry aren’t just about showcasing your portfolio—they’re a test of your personality, chemistry with the team, and ability to adapt to the company culture. We’ve gathered insights from industry experts—from renowned interior designers to architects—to share the most common mistakes they see in candidates, along with practical tips to help you avoid them.

1. Faking Skills: The Lie That Will Eventually Be Exposed

“I once met someone who completely falsified their skills. I asked them to take a drawing test, and it turned out they didn’t have the expertise they claimed. You can only pretend for so long—never pretend to be someone you’re not.”
– FIF DERAW, DEGROUWE & DEHAAN ARCHITECTS

Why Is This a Fatal Mistake?

In the design world, practical skills are essential. If you claim to master software like AutoCAD or 3Ds Max but have limited experience, you’ll be quickly found out. Some studios even require design tests during interviews—if you fail, you’ll lose all credibility.

How to Avoid It?

Be honest about your abilities – If you’re still learning, say so and emphasize your willingness to improve.
Show real work – Even if they’re academic or personal projects, they should reflect your true capabilities.
Prepare in advance – If the job requires a specific skill, take a crash course before the interview.

2. Overloading on Details: When Your Presentation Becomes Boring

“The biggest mistake I see repeatedly: candidates who spend too much time dissecting every tiny detail of their portfolio. It feels like it drags on forever.”
– LAUREN BUXBAUM GORDON, NATE BERKUS STUDIO

Why Does This Hurt Your Chances?

Professional designers know that brevity is power. If you spend 20 minutes explaining a single project, you’ll lose the interviewer’s attention—and they might doubt your ability to communicate effectively with clients.

How to Be Concise and Engaging?

Use the “two-minute rule” – Explain each project in two minutes max.
Focus on results – Instead of listing steps, say: “This project increased the client’s sales by 30% due to a focus on user experience.”
Prepare an abridged version – Bring a well-organized portfolio so you can quickly jump to the most relevant work.

3. Not Asking Questions: A Sign of Disinterest

“At the end of every interview, I ask candidates if they have any questions. I appreciate insightful questions—not superficial ones like, ‘What time is lunch?’”
– ELIZABETH LAWRENCE, WILLIAMS LAWRENCE

What Message Are You Sending When You Don’t Ask?

You’re not genuinely interested in the company.
You haven’t researched the role enough.
You just want any job, not this job.

Smart Questions to Ask:

“How do you measure a designer’s success in your team?”
“What’s the biggest challenge the team is currently facing, and how could I help solve it?”
“How do you nurture talent internally?”

4. Ignoring Communication Basics: Body Language Speaks Volumes

“Eye contact is essential. I always prefer someone who appears calm and confident.”
– ALEX PAPACHRISTIDIS, ALEX PAPACHRISTIDIS INTERIORS

Body Language Mistakes That Kill Your Chances:

Avoiding eye contact → Shows lack of confidence.
Slouching in your seat → Comes off as unprofessional.
Frowning or looking tense → Makes the interviewer uncomfortable.

Tips for Effective Communication:

Practice with a friend – Record yourself and review your body language.
Use hand gestures naturally – They enhance confidence, but overdoing them is distracting.

5. Being Generic: You’re Not a Copy of Others

“We look for individuality that adds to our team. Many applicants say, ‘I want to be like you,’ which is uninspiring.”
– ROSE SALLISON, ALLISON ROSE NEW YORK

How to Stand Out?

Showcase your passions – Do you love photography? Freehand drawing? Mention it—it might set you apart.
Tell an unconventional story – Example: “This design was inspired by a trip to Spain, where I noticed how light transformed colors.”