Interview Preparation

What Students Need to Know:

When preparing for an interview, there are several items to consider:

  1. Type of Interview
  2. The Interview Itself
    1. The Opening
    2. The Body of the Interview
    3. The Closing
  3. Effectively Communicating in Interview

Examples in Action:

  • Preparation is so important. Below are a few tips to help you prepare responses to questions:
  • Do’s:
    • Be respectful
    • Be prepared
    • Ask questions
    • Send a thank you note afterwards
  • Don’t:
    • Make negative comments about others
    • Misrepresent or falsify your qualifications
    • Chew gum
    • Be on your phone or have your sound on

A more comprehensive list of interview Do’s and Don’ts can be found here.

Virtual Interviews:

When preparing for an interview, be sure to know how it will be conducted whether that be in-person or virtually. The same do’s and don’ts mentioned above apply in either scenario, but there are some differences to consider depending on whether or not the virtual interview will be audio only or utilize both audio and video. For additional virtual interview tips, click here.

Virtual (Audio Only):

  • Eliminate distractions and background noise
  • Make sure your device has good sound quality
  • If a time was scheduled, be punctual
    • Know whether they are calling you, or if you are calling them
  • Be mindful of time
  • Have notes prepared
    • Lay your notes flat in front of you so that they are not audible on the call

Virtual (Audio & Video):

  • Make sure you have good lighting and a non-distracting background
  • Dress appropriately
  • Reduce distractions and be in a quiet location
  • Elevate your camera to ensure strong eye contact
  • Use gestures and nonverbal cues like you would for an in-person interaction
  • Have notes prepared
    • Lay your notes flat in front of you so that they are not audible on the call
    • Keyword notes reinforce strong eye contact