Interview Guide - Preparation

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Identify skills and work/school experiences that apply to the specific job - prepare quality examples.
  • Consider how your personality and characteristics fit with the company’s mission and goals.

RESEARCH

  • Understand the position's responsibilities.
  • Research the company: history, successes, culture, and mission statement.
  • Prepare meaningful reasons for joining the team - show your enthusiasm.
  • Connect on LinkedIn with individuals affiliated with the company.

YOUR INTRODUCTION

In an interview or a networking situation, introduce yourself with a 30-second “movie trailer” about you.

PRIMARY TALKING POINTS

  • Education
  • Internships
  • Work experience
  • What sets you apart

OPTIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

  • Accomplishments
  • Skills
  • Aspirations

KEY TIPS

  • Keep it brief, interesting, and natural
  • Avoid too much detail
  • Avoid common words (like, kind, nice, etc.)
  • Avoid personal details (age, family status, religion, etc.)
  • Speak in the present tense to show you have the skills now

PRACTICE

  • Schedule a mock interview with your career counselor - record it and review it.
  • Practice with friends or family.
  • See our Questions Guide for tips and suggestions.

Next: Day Of

UPON ARRIVAL

  • Arrive 10 minutes early
  • Turn off and put away your phone
  • Double-check your appearance
  • Display professionalism - the interview starts in the parking lot

WHAT TO WEAR

ATTIRE OPTIONS

  • Clean, pressed, and dark-colored professional clothing:
    • Suit or dress
    • Dress pants
    • Straight or pencil skirt of modest length (knee-length or slightly shorter/longer is acceptable)
  • Simple and modest blouse or button-up shirt
  • Flat dress shoes or low-heeled pumps (no open-toed shoes or sandals) with nylons
  • Polished business shoes that match the suit
  • Match the coloring of belt and shoes; wear appropriate dress socks
  • Simple tie (no flashy or distracting colors or patterns)
  • Cover tattoos

GROOMING ESSENTIALS

  • Simple jewelry, one pair of earrings
  • Well-groomed and non-distracting hair
  • Natural-looking nails and makeup
  • Avoid perfume and cologne

Match your professional attire with the career field

DURING THE INTERVIEW

  • Remember to smile, show your personality
  • Greet the interviewer or panel with a firm handshake, if appropriate
  • Maintain eye contact
  • Learn and remember names
  • Display good posture
  • Demonstrate confident voice quality and volume
  • Treat the interview like a professional conversation
  • Be prepared to ask good questions
  • Ask for their business cards and thank them for their time

 

To schedule a mock interview, access Wildcat Handshake through your eWeber Portal. Contact Career Services with any questions at (801) 626-6393.

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