Interviewing:
How to Prepare
- Research the organization and industry: Learn everything you can about the company, its culture, history, and current state. What is going on in the industry? How is the company situated in comparison to competition?
- Research the job: Analyze the job description and other information on the position. How do your skills and experience make you the ideal candidate?
- Research yourself: What are your skills, interests, and values? What do you need in a job to do your best? What are you happiest doing? What salary do you require? Be able to clearly explain what you want to do, how you meet an employer's needs, and why you are the best candidate for the specific position.
- Plan responses to questions: See the list below and do further research online. How would you answer these questions? Meet with a career counselor for a mock interview.
- Draft a list of possible questions you can ask: Avoid benefit and salary questions. Ask questions you really want to know the answers to that shed light on the job. Remember, you are interviewing them as well to ensure that you find the right fit for you. (See Questions To Ask An Interviewer for more information.)
- Prepare your materials: Bring copies of your resumé, references (in case you are asked), and a notepad (with your questions) and pen in a professional portfolio. You will also need directions to the interview, the phone number of the company (in case you are late for any reason), and the name of the person or people with whom you will meet.
- Be ready with interview-appropriate clothes, and a polished appearance. (See Dress for Success for more information.)
- Be on time: Arrive at least 10 minutes prior to the interview to collect yourself. You would be surprised how that will help rather than rushing in at the last minute. If you are at the company location, use the time to observe the environment. Is this a place where you would like to work?
- Practice, practice, practice: Role play with a friend or make arrangements for a mock interview.
