Hey collegiettes, it’s that time of year again a.k.a. everyone’s favorite (interview time!). Trust me, you will be fine!
Face-to-Face Interview
1. Research a.k.a. stalk your interviewer and the organization
Yes, this is the time to visit the organization’s website to read up on their company’s history and what their mission statement is etc. Look up your interviewer to see who you are about to meet, and see if you have any mutual connections. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn are all great places to start; if all fails, do a google search.
Photo Credit: BlogHer
2. Re-read the job or internship description
It might have been a while since you last looked at the job description, or it might have been one of those opportunities that you quickly applied to and did not think you would get an interview. It is always great to remind yourself of what this role calls for, and why you are the ideal candidate for this company.
3. Always have a list of questions to ask
Throughout or at the end of the interview, the interviewer will ask if you have any questions. Always and I mean ALWAYS ask a question to show that you are interested in the company, or use this opportunity to clarify any key points or confusion. A good question to ask is what does a day entail or look like at your company.
4. Dress for success
Studies show that if you look confident, you will act confident. Did you dream of becoming a business professional? If so, then look like you are a business professional. Throw on a blazer, a collared buttoned down shirt, dress pants, and some flats. Now go smile big and shake some hands!
Photo Credit: Bunow
Phone Interview
A phone interview is not too different than your average face-to-face or Skype interview. You still have to do your research, go over the job description, prepare a list of questions to ask, and dressing up is not mandatory since you will be doing this over the phone.
Photo Credit: QuestromWorld
5. Smile
Believe it or not, if you are smiling as you are speaking, your voice sounds more upbeat.
6. Stand up and use gestures
If you stand up and speak with hand gestures, you will look and sound confident.
7. Be polite by listening carefully and waiting for your chance to speak
The worst impression you can give over the phone is coming across as rude; there may be times throughout the interview where you feel passionate while your interviewer is still elaborating. Just stay calm, breathe, and wait your turn. There is always time; make sure you allow your interviewer to finish his or her question. Otherwise, it would be an awkward silence while the two of you figure out who should continue, and someone may lose their train of thought in the process.
Skype Interview
Treat a Skype interview like a face-to-face interview because you must look your part while bringing your skills to the table.
Photo Credit: BeyondTheU
8. Avoid technical difficulties, if you can
I highly recommend that you make sure you do not encounter any unforeseen technical difficulties; make sure your audio is working properly, the computer is charged, and you are free from distractions. Needless to say, your phone shall not be going off during the interview session. Sit up straight, dress business casual, and don’t sell yourself short!
Group Interview
Group interviews are not as bad as you think. Think of it like a group of individuals that you never met who care about you enough to get to know you. Do you feel special already? You will be sitting in the middle, and everyone takes turns asking you questions. All questions are fair game, and I think group interviews are fair. I am always up for the challenge. Also, you have a better chance at the position since there are multiple people there. If one person does not like you, they will be outnumbered.
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That’s it for now, collegiettes. I hope you found this helpful, and good luck with the interviews!