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.
