Interviewing

After submitting your cover letter and résumé to an organization, the next step will likely be an interview. The key to having a successful interview is preparation.

Practice answering questions, be able to articulate your skills with examples and stories, learn everything you can about the organization and the position. Check their web site and review the mission statement and history. Read current press releases and information about upcoming events. If you know people who work in the organization, give them a call and find out about the work environment and values.

• Sample interview questions
• Questions for you to ask recruiters
• What to wear
• Thank you letters
• Salary information
• Practice interviews
• Additional resources

Sample interview questions

Before going into an interview, think about which skills, qualifications, and examples you want to emphasize. Because employers know that the best predictor of future behavior is past behavior, many questions will focus on asking you to describe specific events. “Tell me about a time when...” or “describe a situation...” Your response needs to be specific and detailed.

It is not enough to simply read through sample questions. Be sure to rehearse your answers aloud. Practice with a friend or sign up for a practice interview with Career Services.

• Why did you choose to major in ________?
• Why did you choose this career?
• What goals do you have in your career? How do you plan to achieve them?
• How has your college experience prepared you for a career?
• Describe a situation in which you were successful.
• What motivates you?
• What do you see yourself doing five years from now? Ten years from now?
• What qualities should a successful manager possess?
• Tell me about a time you had an ethical dilemma. What did you do?
• Tell me about a time you had a conflict with a supervisor or professor. How did you handle it?
• What is the best criticism you’ve ever received?
• How do you work under pressure?
• Tell me about a time when you exhibited one of your strengths.
• Who were your favorite professors? Why?
• Do you have any plans for further education?
• Why are you seeking a position with our organization?
• What do you know about our organization?
• What kind of salary are you looking for?

Find additional questions under web resources.

Questions for you to ask during an interview

During an interview the recruiter is not the only one who should be asking questions. Most recruiters will offer you the opportunity to ask them some questions, too. Use this time to demonstrate your knowledge about the organization and show the recruiter you’ve done your homework. Sample questions are listed below.

• What would a typical working day be like in this position?
• How would you describe your company culture?
• Why is this position open?
• What is your vision for this department over the next 2-3 years?
• What challenges are you currently facing as a manager?
• How long have you been with the organization?
• What has been your career path within the organization?
• What is the organization's retention rate?
• What opportunities are available for professional development?
• What is the next step in the interviewing process?

What to wear to an interview

The final step in preparing for an interview is deciding what to wear. Whether or not you want it to be true, your personal appearance will make an impression on the recruiter. It’s important to give a positive initial impression. Even though many organizations have a relaxed dress policy for employees, interviews still follow the traditional conservative standard.

General tips:

• Wear a conservative two-piece business suit (men and women)
• Clothing should fit well (not too tight or too loose) and be clean and pressed
• Avoid bright, bold colors or flashy patterns
• Go easy on jewelry, perfume/after-shave, and make-up
• Tattoos should be covered and body piercing removed (except earrings)
• Bring a portfolio or briefcase with paper, a pen, and extra copies of your résumé

After your interview you want to be remembered for your strengths and skills, not for your clothing. Don’t wear anything that may be distracting for the interviewer. When in doubt, choose the more conservative option.

Thank you letters

Employers often say receiving a well-written and appropriate thank you letter can make or break the hiring decision. Consider these comments from Cover Letter Magic:

Well written thank you letters can be a powerful marketing communication tool. They have evolved into *second-tier* marketing communications – giving you the opportunity to reiterate what you bring to the organization, offer new information that was not addressed in the interview, and keep you and your qualifications in the forefront of the hiring manager’s mind. People remember other people who go the *extra mile* and put forth the extra effort. When you send a thank you note after an interview, you are communicating:

• I appreciate your time and consideration in interviewing me.
• I am interested in the opportunity. (Even if you’re not, you don’t want to burn any bridges.)
• I am well versed in business etiquette and protocol.
• I know how to deal with people and win their trust.
• I am a good communicator with excellent interpersonal skills.
• I will put forth extra effort for you and the organization.

Send thank you notes as soon as possible, ideally within a day of your interview. Type your letters in  business format for a professional appearance. Use the same paper, type style, and format that you used for your cover letter. While business letters sent by postal mail are preferred, e-mail letters are becoming increasingly common. Use your judgment as to what seems most appropriate for the organization. If you choose to write a handwritten note, keep it brief. Check to see that your thank you letter communicates the following:

• Performance
• Energy & enthusiasm
• Commitment
• Value to the organization and interest in the position