INTERVIEW STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESS
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No matter how many times you have done them, interviews are nerveracking. Remember that it is also often nerve-racking for the interviewers. You are all human!
Take charge of the nerves
Best way to address the nerves is to prepare and practice (i.e. mock interviews).
Make notecards with bullet points including your responses to typical interview questions.
Practice through platforms such as Big Interview, in person with a supervisor/colleague/professor, or in front of a mirror on your own.
Both sides work smart and come prepared.
The interview becomes natural and conversational.
What makes a great interview?
You and the interviewers are composed, concise, and sincere.
Strong questions and honest answers are provided by you and the interviewers.
You prepare a list of questions that help you determine if the company is fit for you just as they determine if you might be fit for them.
You have done your research into the office/company/organization including their mission, values, and any strategic goals.
Remember that it ultimately is just a conversation about you, your experience, your passions, and why you are meant for or qualified for this.
Be genuine and let your personality show- sometimes that is all it takes!
During the interview
Maintain eye contact and remain conscious of your body language, remember again that it is just a conversation!
Kindly ask to repeat questions if needed, and take time to pause and reflect for a moment before you answer questions if needed.
Ask questions that instigate a conversation or clarify something for you. (Office culture, professional development opportunities, qualities that an ideal candidate would have etc.)
Remember that what you want is just as important as what they need!
If you’re applying for a job, you’ve got to be honest about yourself and your background. Be confident in your strong points, and when thinking of your weaknesses- construct them into opportunities for positive growth.
Answer truthfully
Be honest about your skills and experiences- you might have to prove them one day. If you don’t have experience in a particular task, it is okay to let them know you are a quick, eager and adaptable learner.
Always be your true self and find ways to make yourself memorable for the interviewers.
INTERVIEW STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESS
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Remember to be an active listener- listen attentively to absorb what is being asked of you – this is helpful when asking your own questions later!
Be yourself and be friendly- interviews are grueling and often exhausting, it
Throughout the process
is very refreshing when interviewers encounter someone that is warm, positive, and authentic.
Pace yourself- No need to rush through your answers, take time to breathe and construct a thoughtful response.
Remember- You will know an interview is going well if it becomes just like an engaging conversation with colleagues or peers. Don’t stick strictly to your script- let your answers and the conversation flow naturally.
While still with the interviewers, thank them for their time and wish them well in the rest of their interviews.
After the interview
Inquire about a time frame for hearing from them as well as a second interview (if applicable).
Once out of the interview, construct a thank you email to send to the interviewers. Customize the thank you email for each interviewer- it can often be a selling point! Include details about the interview, interviewers, or organization itself that you appreciated.
Three key qualities, characteristics,
What are some professional
or important concepts from my
successes you have experienced?
background that define me.
(Something you created or initiated that you are proud of?)
Why this position? Why this field? Think about a challenge or conflict
Talking points to practice
Where do you see yourself in the
you’ve faced at work, and how you
next 5-10 years?
dealt with it.
What do you like to do in your
How do I handle stress, conflict, and
spare time outside of work/school?
crisis? Think about specific experiences and your growth
What are your biggest strengths?
through them.
Weaknesses? What would my _________ say How do you describe your
about me?
leadership style? Think about a time you stepped into a leadership
Current supervisors/mentors
position. Peers/friends What does effective supervision look like to you? (I.e. constructive
Parents
feedback, clear instructions, transparency etc.)
Want more advice? Schedule an appointment with your Promise Coach! And check out the latest job and internship opportunities at liu.edu/handshake