Prepare for Interview


Questions Asked by Employers

Before you begin interviewing, think about these questions and those possible responses and discuss them with a career advisor. Conduct mock interviews and be sure you are able to communicate clear, unrehearsed answers to interviewers.
-Tell me about yourself.
-Why did you choose to interview with our organization?
-What do you consider to be your greatest strengths?
-Can you name some weaknesses?
-How does your college education or work experience relate to this job?
-What motivates you most in a job?
-Have you had difficulty getting along with a former professor/supervisor/co-worker and how did you handle it?
-Why should we hire you rather than another candidate?
-What do you know about our organization (products or services)?
-Where do you want to be in five years? Ten years?
-What job-related skills have you developed?
-Give an example of a time in which you worked under deadline pressure.
-Have you ever done any volunteer work? What kind?
-Would you be successful working with a team?
-Are you able to work on several assignments at once?

Dress for Success

Professional
Clean, manicured fingernails
Neat hair
Polished shoes
Natural-looking make-up
Clean and neatly pressed clothes that fit properly
 

Unprofessional
Baggy stockings, saggy socks
Boots
Costume jewelry
For men, gold medallions, charms
For women, low necklines, high hemlines

Prepare for interview
Prepare a well written resume and cover letter. Have other professionals review it and make suggestions.
Do mock interviews on your own campus. Get feedback early on.
Be sure to take time and reflect through the process. Don't rush it or stress.
Know your areas of strength and areas needing improvement. Also be able to communicate your knowledge, skills, and experience. What can you contribute to the organization?
Research the positions you are interested in.

The Big Day

You've done your homework and can walk into the information interview confident that you will make a good impression and get the information that will help you make a wise decision. Don't forget to dress appropriately. Also, arrive on time, keep the interview to the scheduled length, and remember proper etiquette.

Speaking of proper etiquette, please remember to send a thank you note to show your appreciation. The interviewer has taken time out of what is probably a very busy schedule to help you.