With summer just around the corner, it is not too early to
start looking for a summer job, internship or service learning opportunity. Once you have applied, it is time to prepare for
the interview! To prepare for a
successful interview, consider:
Interview Appointment:
Once you get the call for the coveted interview, be sure to get the date/time, full name, address (building number) and telephone
number of the person that will be interviewing you. Immediately place the information in your
telephone calendar and/or planner (keep a back up).
Research: Explore
the company or organization website and search for recent news articles. Be
prepared to share what you have learned about the company accomplishments,
mission and goals. They will be
impressed to see that you have done your homework.
Practice:
Research interview questions and practice your responses. Just as when studying for a test, or
preparing for a presentation, it is important to practice early and not cram
your thoughts and responses briefly, the night before. Think of impressive illustrations from your
past employment, personal and educational experiences. Be familiar with group projects and ways that
you have contributed as a team player.
This is your chance to shine – be prepared!
Test Drive: Even if you are using public transportation,
take the time to make a practice run to the interview location. One
blogger shares a story of a failed interview writing the applicant “arrived
30 minutes late for his interview [because] he had programmed his GPS
too quickly the night before, and had entered the street address as ‘Drive’ instead
of ‘Place’.”
Dress for Success: The first impression you set may be based on
what you are wearing and how you appear.
Resume: Be sure
to bring an up-to-date copy of your resume for each person on the interview
committee. If you can, carry it in a portfolio
from your College.
Follow Through: Be sure you have business cards or names of
the employees that interviewed you so that you can follow through with a thank
you note.
When interviewing, do not hesitate to ask questions. To determine if your career goals will be
met, you are interviewing them as well.
Good Luck!
