Preparing for an interview

• Reflect on what you want to do occupationally.
• Research the position and organization to determine how you can make a contribution.
• Update your resume.
• Dress appropriately.
• Practice:

• Common Questions
• Common Behavioral-Based Questions
• Mock Interview Relay Program

Helpful tips

• Be positive.
• Be aware of your non-verbal communication including eye contact and posture.
• Be aware of verbal communication patterns including run-on sentences, use of non-words and improper grammar.
• Be specific in answering questions and support any claims you make with examples.
• Remain focused and tie answers back to your qualifications for the job.
• Avoid one or two-word responses.
• If stumped by a question, take a few seconds to think before rambling or blurting out an inappropriate response.
• Prepare questions ahead of time to ask the interviewer about the job and organization.
• Before leaving the interview, assuming you want the position, let the employer know that you really want the job.
• Quickly summarize your skills and interest in the position, express appreciation for the interview and clarify appropriate follow-up procedures.

The day of the interview

• Arrive 15 minutes before your interview time and check-in at the front desk in Career Services.
• Browse through the employee literature while you are waiting.
• Reacquaint yourself with your resume. Bring extra copies to hand to the interviewer(s).
• Greet the interviewer with a firm handshake and confident smile.
• After the interview, please return to Career Services to fill out the interview evaluation form.