The interview is a chance for applicants and employers to mutually evaluate the fit between the applicant’s qualifications and the position being considered.

Do your research on the position, on your qualifications and on the company.

Preparing for the interview is critical for your success. You should be able to discuss why your experiences, education, and skills make you qualified. Identify the key job responsibilities individually and then outline all of your relevant qualifications. This will ensure that you have enough talking points during the interview. You also want to discuss what you know about the company and why you are the best person for the job.

Enter the interview prepared, polished, and confident. Review our interview preparation tips belows for additional guidance.

Interview Checklist Prepare questions to ask the interviewer (at least 3-5). Do not ask questions you can find on the organization’s website.  Arrive early (preferably 10-15 minutes for in-person interviews; 2-3 minutes for video interviews). Bring extra resumes in a neutral padfolio with a pen. Turn off your cell phone. Be personable. Greet the receptionist, staff, and interviewer with a smile. Review your resume and rehearse key points you want to communicate.  Offer a solid handshake whenever you get the chance (upon arrival and departure).  Sit up straight with upright, yet relaxed posture. Make good eye contact with everyone at the interview, regardless of who is talking at the moment. Do not fidget with pens, paper, or your hands. Try to keep hands still or folded in your lap. Speak slowly and clearly and don't be afraid to pause a moment to collect your thoughts.  Do not criticize previous employers, supervisors, professors, etc. Be honest. Don't try to cover up mistakes. Instead, focus on what you learned from them and convey the strategies you now utilize to avoid future mistakes. If you don't understand a question - or need a moment to think about it - say so. Do not inquire about salary or benefits until you have been formally offered the job. Before you leave the interview, be sure to ask, “When should I expect to hear from you?” This shows your interest in continuing in the process and provides insight into how you can best follow up. Send a thank-you note or email within 24 hours of your interview to the entire search committee.

Choosing what to wear to an interview can be as stress-inducing as the actual interview. It is better to go more conservative than too trendy. Pick an outfit that you feel confident in, showcases your personality, but is also appropriate for the interview.

Interview Attire Tips Avoid strong cologne or perfume No open-toed shoes Simple makeup/jewelry Conservative and tailored fit business suit, pantsuit, or skirt of length no shorter than the knee Wear dress socks that match your suit Be comfortable and confident Showcase your personality, but keep it appropriate for the workplace

You only have a few minutes to sell yourself to a prospective employer–how do you do it? Hit them with your elevator pitch.

Develop a list of (at least three to five) questions to ask during your interview. Research the company and position in detail and determine anything that you might wish to have clarified. Do NOT ask anything that can be found on their website and do NOT bring up salary or benefits.

  • How would I be trained or introduced to the job?
  • How is employee performance evaluated?
  • What career paths have others generally followed after completing the program?
  • As an intern, what kind of projects will I receive?
  • What characteristics best describe individuals who are successful in this position?
  • Where could a person advance who is successful in this position? Within what time frame?
  • In what ways has this organization been most successful over the past several years?
  • What do you consider to be the organization’s weakness as compared to its competition?
  • How is this position important to the organization?
  • How would you describe the culture of your organization?
  • What is your management style?
  • What are you most proud of within your organization?
  • What have you enjoyed most about working here?
  • What are the department’s short term and long term goals?
  • If I work hard and prove my value to the company, where might I find myself in five years?
  • What professional development opportunities are available for employees at this company?
  • What are the key business reasons driving the need for this position?
  • What were the best things about the last person who held this position (or why was this position created?)
  • Describe the three top challenges that I might face in this job.
  • What has to happen for you to know you’ve hired the best person?
  • What are the key deliverables and outcomes that this position must achieve?
  • What would you expect me to accomplish in the first 60 days if hired for this position?
  • Describe the top three initiatives for your company/department and how this position links to these initiatives.
  • What are a few things that really drive results for the company?
  • What are ways in which I can contribute to the company beyond the job description?
  • What are the key metrics for measuring success in this position?
  • How can I best help you and your team succeed?
  • When should I expect to hear from you?

Always write personalized thank-you notes within 24 hours to each person if possible. Email or handwritten are acceptable – it depends on how quickly a decision will be made.

Ms. Joanna Jones Senior Recruiter ABC Company 123 Main Street Westfield, MA 01085 Today’s Date Dear Dr. Recruiter: I enjoyed learning more about the Consumer Product Department’s annual goals and how the marketing team can make an impact. I am confident that my coursework along with my summer internship experience with XYZ, Inc., will allow me to successfully meet the objectives of this position. I am excited to continue moving forward in the process and I look forward to hearing back from you soon. Thank you again for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Shauna Sharp

Paragraph 1:

Shows gratitude and makes specific reference to the job.

Paragraph 2:

References your overall fit and stresses key points working in your favor. When writing to more than one interviewer, you may want to note a question asked by the interviewer or thank them for a specific kindness that was extended.

Paragraph 3:

Reiterates interest in the position, restates gratitude, and closes on a positive note.

Want more help?

Schedule a mock Interview