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Effective Interviewing

Depending on the nature of the position you are interviewing for, there are a few different types of interviews you can prepare for: phone screening, one-on-one, and group. You also have to consider the possibility that your interview could be in-person or virtual. Based on the industry you’re interviewing for, you may want to know how to answer personal, behavioral, situational, and/or technical questions.

Tips for a Successful Interview

  • Research the company
    • You should know the company’s mission, vision, brief history, current projects, etc.
    • Prepare questions to ask at the end of your interview.
  • Dress for the job
    • Wear business professional or business casual attire (black, gray, and jewel tones are good colors)
    • Make sure your skin, hair, and nails are clean and clipped
    • Do not wear strong perfumes or colognes
  • Practice your body language
    • Make eye contact with who you are speaking with
    • Smile, lean in, and nod appropriately to show interest
  • Be on time
    • Arrive 10 minutes early
  • Follow Up
    • Send a thank you card or email to each interviewer within 24 hours.
    • Be brief and professional: express appreciation for the interview, reiterate your interest in the position, and remind employer of your relevant skills.

Additional Tips for Virtual Settings

  • Test your technology
    • Be sure you have the correct software (Zoom, Teams, updates browsers, etc.)
    • Make sure your connection, microphone, and camera are functioning properly
  • Find a good background
    • Your background should be clean and simple. Avoid distracting posters or pictures.
    • Pick a professional filter, if using one. No sports teams, beach scenes, etc.
  • Find your lighting
    • Make sure there is a light source in front of you, not behind or on one side
  • Avoid interruptions
    • Be sure to select a location where you won’t be bothered: keep animals out of the room, tell you family/roommates not to disturb you, make sure your phone and other notifications are silenced.   

 

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