We’ve all experienced those pre-interview jitters that make our palms sweat and our hearts skip a beat. The clicking of heels on the office’s marble floor and the ticking of the clock on the wall seem to get louder as you patiently wait to be interviewed. We’re here to help you kick those nerves to the curb and rock the interview. Here at Her Campus Xavier, we’ve come up with a list of tips to keep in mind before, during, and after the interview to help you land the internship or job.
Before the interview:
1. Update your resume – try to keep it to one page.
2. Bring a notepad and pen, your portfolio with extra copies of your resume, and a list of references.
3. Research the company and make a list of the skills required by the employer.
4. Do a mock interview with a family member or friend and have them ask you some common interview questions such as:
“Tell me about yourself.”
“What can you contribute to this company?”
“Why do you want this job?”
“What do you know about this company?”
“Why are you the best person for the job?”
“What is your greatest weakness?”
5. Create a list of questions for the interviewer:
“What have past employees done to exceed in this position?”
“Is there an opportunity for growth in this position?”
“How does one advance in the company?”
6. Dress to impress, but keep it appropriate.
7. Keep a natural look, with simple hair and natural make up.
8. Listen to your favorite song on the way to boost your confidence.
9. Leave your phone and any other personal belongings outside, and no gum!
10. Arrive on time. Even better, arrive ten minutes early.
During the interview:
1. Greet everyone pleasantly and graciously.
2. Start the interview off with a firm, confident handshake and maintain eye contact and good posture throughout the interview.
3. Be polite, enthusiastic and remember to smile.
4. Pay attention to the interviewer and stay engaged – you want them to know that you’re interested and that they have your undivided attention.
5. Avoid talking too much and do not interrupt your interviewer.
6. Make sure to ask the interviewer your list of questions at the end.
7. Ask when you may follow up or when a decision will be made.
8. Thank them for taking the time to interview you.
After the interview:
1. Write a thank-you note to the company and mail it.
2. Follow up with your interviewer on the date you discussed.
3. Notify your references that they may receive a phone call from the employer, and provide them with information about the company and position you are applying.
4. Do not post anything about the interview on social media.
5. Write up a summary of the interview, so you can review if you get called back for a second interview.
6. Make notes about things that went well, and questions you might answer differently.
With these tips you will nail the interview and land the internship or job. Good luck, Collegiate!