Interview Preparation

Preparing for an Interview

Before any interview, make sure you research the company. Start by searching the company's website and look at mission, about us, careers, annual reports, and other key web pages. You can also search company directories and insider websites, such as Hoovers.com, Vault.com, and Wetfeet.com. In addition, investigate information through the local Chamber of Commerce and Better Business Bureau.

Act as a Professional

Bring with you a professional padfolio or folder, pen, notepad, copies of your résumé and references, and a list of questions for the employer. Make a positive first impression with a smile, firm handshake and dress for success.

Make sure you know in advance specific examples of tasks, accomplishments, leadership roles, and other experiences that you can use as examples when asked; the interviewer's name and how to pronounce it (use Mr. or Ms. upon introduction); get directions to the interview location and arrive 15-20 minutes early!

Interview Questions

Be aware of common types of questions, what the interviewer expects, your non-verbal communication, and tips to help you be successful. Career Services highly recommends reviewing the Guide to Interviewing.

Direct Questions require a specific answer, often just a one or two word answer like yes or no.
  • Will you relocate?
  • Are you willing to travel?
  • Do you have plans for continued study? An advanced degree?
  • Do you think your grades are a good indication of your academic achievement?
  • Which is more important to you, the money or the type of job?
  • Are you seeking employment in a company of a certain size?
Open Ended Questions allow you to communicate more about what your experiences have been and what you hope to offer a prospective employer.
  • What do you consider your greatest strength(s)?
  • Why should I hire you?
  • What do you see yourself doing five years from now?
  • Describe your most rewarding college experience.
  • What motivates you to put forth your greatest effort?
  • Why do you want to work for this company?
Behavioral Questions predict a candidates future performance by inquiring about their past performance in a similar situation. To answer these questions, briefly describe the situation, the action steps you took, and the outcome of those action steps.
  • Give an example of an important goal which you had set in the past and tell about your success in reaching it.
  • Describe a time where you were faced with problems or stresses that tested your coping skills.
  • Tell me about a time when you had to go above and beyond the call of duty in order to get a task accomplished.
  • Describe an instance when you used good judgment and logic in solving a problem.
  • By providing examples, convince me that you can adapt to a wide variety of people, situations, and environments.
  • Describe a significant or creative presentation which you had to complete.