INTERVIEW TIPS AND TRICKS

Do your homework

• Research the company:  Read up on the company’s website and related news online.  Learn more about their mission, vision, and values.  Do they have a strategic plan?   How can you help contribute to its goals?

• Get to know the interview committee: If you know who will be interviewing you, learn more about the individuals on the committee. Is there something you can connect with or comment on in the interview?  Don’t get into personal details - keep it business focused. 

• Review the job description: get to know the position well and understand the roles and responsibilities.  Do you have any questions you can ask about at the end of the interview?

Practice your answers to the most common questions

• Tell us about yourself: This is your opportunity to present your story and selling points in a short, concise statement.  Identify who you are, what you’ve achieved, and why you’re motivated for this position.

• Why did you apply for this position?  Be specific and talk about how you can bring value to the role and how this will help you expand specific skills and experiences.

• What is your greatest strength and biggest weakness?  Connect the strength to the role. What do they need that you have?  Everyone has weaknesses so be prepared to share an example.  Perhaps you’re not the most confident public speaker?  Explain that by being in the position you hope to build confidence in this area.

• Why should we hire you?  What sets you apart from others?  Maybe you have a unique quality, skill, or experience? 

• What questions do you have for us?  Always have questions prepared for the end of the interview. It shows you put thought into the prospect of working at the company and shows your interest in learning more about the job.  Good questions include: “What do you like best about working at XYZ?”, “How is success measured for this position?”, “What is the timeline for filling the position?”

Plan your wardrobe

• A good recommendation for interview clothing is business casual. 

• Do your research in advance and try to match the company standard. 

• Accessories are great, but don’t let them distract from your presence. 

Technology tips

• If you’re interviewing by Zoom or other technology, make sure you’re in a quiet, well-lit area. 

• Stick with solid, neutral colors that show up best on the screen. 

• Do a practice run with your technology the day before to ensure it works correctly!