Preparing for an Interview
Interview success hinges not only on qualifications but also on your demeanor, communication skills, and fit with the company culture. Preparation boosts confidence for both in-person and virtual interviews, allowing you to highlight your experiences and potential.
Prepare and Practice
Research the company
Learning about a company before an interview demonstrates your genuine interest and can help you tailor your responses to align with their values and goals. Additionally, it allows you to ask informed questions, showcasing your preparedness and enthusiasm for the role.
Looking up your interviewers on LinkedIn helps you understand their professional backgrounds, interests, and roles within the company, enabling you to establish a more personal connection during the interview.
Consider two or three reasons why you would like to work with the company.
Interview Question Types and Examples
Basic - these questions are designed to get to know you and your background. Ex: tell me about yourself and your interest in this position.
Behavioral - these questions will be a way for an interviewer to understand your personality and working style. Ex: describe a time when you didn’t get along with someone and how you handled it.
Technical - these questions assess your problem-solving abilities, technical skills, and practical skills relevant to the job. Ex: you have been assigned to a project involving a new technology. How would you get started?
Interview Logistics
Face-To-Face Interview
Have reliable transportation and clear directions to the location including parking details.
Plan to arrive 15-20 minutes early to your interview to make sure you are on time.
Virtual Interview
Have a quiet, professional space to conduct the interview.
Make sure your speakers, microphone, and headphones work prior to the interview.
Dress professionally even though the interview is virtual.
Avoid background distractions such as fans going or pets in the room.
The Interview
Make sure to a bring a physical copy of your resume as well as a notebook with your questions to ask the employer and information you may have on the company. You can also use this to take notes.
Be yourself! Make sure to appear confident and enthusiastic during the interview.
When answering questions, use positive and concrete examples to showcase your skills. Your response should include an outline of the situation and the overall outcome.
After the interview, send an email thanking the interviewer for their time and expressing your continued interest in the position.