How to Prepare for the Interview
Before the Interview
It is natural to be nervous about an upcoming interview. One way to use that nervous energy is to fully prepare for the interview replacing your anxiety with confident because you are ready.
Prepare for the Interview
- Research the Company - This is a deal breaker. Your success in the interview is dependent on your company research. The interviewer will be able to tell if you have done your research.
- Know Yourself - You must know your skills, abilities, and qualifications to help you "sell" yourself in an interview. The interviewer is looking to see how you will be an asset to the company.
- Resume & References - Bring copies of your resume and references to the interview. The interviewer has probably already seen your resume, but it is better to have it available if needed.
- Know the Questions - Review the job description to determine what skills employers are seeking and what examples from your education, work experience, or community involvement best demonstrates that you possess that skill. Be prepared to answer "Tell me about yourself".
- Prepare your Questions - It is important for you to ask questions of the interviewer. Before the interview, prepare a list of questions to ask that will demonstrate you have researched the company.
- Know the Interviewer - If possible, get the pronunciation and spelling of the interviewer.
- PRACTICE - The Career Center offers you the opportunity to practice and get feedback to improve you interviewing skills through scheduling a Mock Interview. Any practice is important, so if a mock interview is not possible practice with a friend or in front of a mirror.
During the Interview
The impression you make on the interviewer and staff of the company starts before the interview ever begins. How can you make a good first impression?
- Be prompt. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early for the interview. If needed, you can drive to the company location the night before to determine when you will need to leave to arrive early.
- Professional Dress. Know how to dress appropriately. Make sure you pay attention to personal grooming.
- Friendly. Be sure to be friendly and respectful to everyone in the office not just the interviewer.
- Handshake. Give a firm handshake making eye contact with the person. Introduce yourself with confidence.
- When the interview actually begins, be yourself and relax. You want to help the interviewer feel comfortable with you and about the situation. What can you do in the interview to make it a positive and successful experience?
- Express interest, show confidence, and be enthusiastic.
- Be honest with your responses.
- Avoid nervous mannerisms.
- Listen carefully to questions.
- Answer questions using the STAR method with specific information and details.
- Use good grammar.
- Maintain good eye contact.
- Use good posture at all times.
- Wait to sit until you are invited to do so.
- Don't speak negatively of former employers or professors.
- Ask for the interviewer's business card.
- Ask questions of the interviewer.
- Close with a statement of appreciation for the interview and interest in the position.
- Ask the interviewer when you can expect to hear from them about the interview.
- Remember the interview is not over until you leave the company.
After the Interview
The interview may be over but your responsibilities regarding the interview are not.
Thank You
Within 48 hours you need to send a thank you card/letter expressing your appreciation for the interview and reiterating your interest in the position. It is important to get business cards from all interviewers before leaving the company so you will have the necessary information needed to send a thank you card to each person involved in the interview.