Upcoming Interview Tips
Initial Prep
- Research the organization and the role. Search the company’s website and social media, Indeed reviews, etc.
- Plan your outfit in advance. Make sure you are comfortable in it. Research the company's dress code and plan to dress one step up from the everyday wear (i.e. if the dress code for the job is business casual, dress business professional). Ensure that attire is appropriate, neutral, clean, and wrinkle-free.
- Scout the exact location, parking availability, and how long it takes you to get there.
- Prepare questions to ask the interviewer. Do not show up without questions!
Sample Questions to Ask:
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- What does a typical day look like in this position?
- What qualities make someone successful in this role?
- What kind of orientation or training is offered for new hires?
- Is there anything about my background or experience you’d like me to clarify?
Common Interview Questions to Practice:
- Tell us about yourself.
- Why are you interested in this position?
- What are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?
- How do you handle stress or pressure?
- How do you stay organized and manage your time?
- Tell me about a time you faced a challenge and how you overcame it.
- Describe a time you worked as part of a team.
- Tell me about a time you made a mistake—what did you learn from it?
- Why should we hire you?
- What makes you a good fit for this position?
- Where do you see yourself in five years?
- Do you have any questions for us?
NOTE: Try the STAR Method to answer questions asking you to give examples of situations you’ve been in.
THE STAR METHOD
In interviewing, STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result, and this method helps you create structured, concise, and engaging responses to behavioral interview questions.
Situation: Describe the context.
Task: Explain the specific challenge or responsibility you faced in that situation. What were you tasked with achieving?
Action: Detail the steps you took to address the task or challenge. This is the most critical part of your response, as it showcases your problem-solving skills and initiative.
Result: Share the outcome of your actions. Highlight the positive results, achievements, or lessons learned from the experience.
REMINDERS FOR THE DAY OF THE INTERVIEW
- Be mindful of body language. Smile, sit up straight, make eye contact, and take cues from your interviewer(s). Body language can help you look AND feel confident.
- Don’t be afraid to pause to think about your responses. It’s better to take a moment to gather your thoughts rather than to rush and make mistakes.
- Bring copies of your resume, a notepad, and a pen.
- Speak to yourself POSITIVELY. “They want to meet me because they already saw something that they liked in my application.”
- Show up early. Give yourself plenty of time to use the restroom, do a quick mirror check, and make sure you are presentable.
Mock Interviews
Nervous about an upcoming interview? Then participate in one of our mock interview options! Depending on the type of mock interview, your interviewer will ask questions much like you could experience in a real interview for a part-time job, internship, full-time job, or other scenarios. Participants will receive valuable detailed feedback to prepare you for upcoming success.
You don't have to be searching for a job or internship to engage with these resources; it is never too early to start working on this essential career development skill!
SCHEDULE A MOCK INTERVIEW(Please give a 3 day notice)