Introduction

Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but they don’t have to be. This module will help you prepare for interviews, answer common questions, and present yourself with confidence. You’ll learn about the STAR method, virtual vs. in-person interviews, and professional body language.

Acing an interview is not just about answering questions, it is about making a connection with the employer. By the end of this section, you’ll know how to prepare for your interview, structure your responses, and demonstrate why you are the right candidate for the role.

Preparing for your interview:

• Do background research on your employer. What does the company do? Do they provide a service or make products? Who are its customers?
• Write down a couple of good questions to ask in the interview.
• If you‘ve never been to your interview location before, take a trip ahead of time.
• Figure out how to get there and plan to get there 10 minutes ahead of time.
• Bring the name and phone number of the person you set up the interview with. If you get held up or lost on your way, you’ll be able to call ahead.
• Take care of yourself - get good sleep and eat before your interview.
• Plan what you’ll wear the day before.
• Be sure you have good hygiene (take a shower, brush your teeth)

The day of your interview:

• Be prepared to talk about yourself, the position, and the organization you’ll be interviewing with.
• Bring the questions you’ve prepared for the person you’re interviewing with.
• Arrive 10-15 minutes early.
• Allow extra time in case of traffic or other unforeseen events. If your interview is in a big building, it’ll take time to walk in and find the office you’re looking for.
• Bring several copies of your resume on nice paper.
• Bring a professional-looking notepad with a pen to take notes during the interview.
• Bring the name and phone number of the person you set up the interview with.
• Eat breakfast or lunch before the interview.
• Go alone. Don’t bring your friends or family with you.
• Turn off your cell phone.

During your interview:

• Don’t chew gum.
• Shake hands firmly. Your handshake says a lot about you. Make eye contact.
• Remember names. It‘s always polite to repeat someone’s name as you‘re introduced. If you don’t catch someone’s name, ask them to repeat it.
• Show enthusiasm. A positive attitude and excitement about a job will go a long way.
• Smile. Relax and try to have fun.
• Sit up straight. Your body language says a lot.
• Speak clearly. Make eye contact as you speak.
• Ask the questions that you prepared. This shows your interest.
• Follow up on your interview with a thank you note.

Virtual & Phone interviews

Many employers are now holding interviews virtually. While virtual interviews do not allow for some methods for making a good first impression such as giving a firm handshake, there are other ways to present yourself well. Here are some tips to prepare for your virtual interview: 

Prepare in advance by researching the organization: 

• Visit organization's website 
• Check the company/organization's LinkedIn page
• Seek out any media coverage 

Log in on time: 

• You do not need to show up 15 minutes early like with a face-to-face interview; you can log in on time or just a few minutes early
• Long before it is time for your interview make sure you have the proper software on your computer and a good internet connection 

Dress for success…yes even virtually: 

• Make sure to look polished and professional 

Find a quiet location and check what’s behind you:

• Consider using a video filter or blur your background to reduce distractions 
• Clean up any clutter behind you so it is not caught on camera
• Let your family/housemates know you will be interviewing and ask if they can remain quiet during that time or find a location outside of your home like the library or ask the property manager if you could use some office space for a quick interview 
• Make sure to do these things well in advance of your interview 

Look at the camera: 

• This helps to make connections and shows attentiveness 
• Do not stare…it is ok to naturally look away a few times 

Stay focused and visibly engaged: 

• Consider nodding to give affirmation that you understand while they are talking 
• Take notes of key points 
• Before your interview write down some questions to ask about the job or organization 

Phone Interviews: 

• Make it a point to speak clearly, slowly and make sure that the interviewer can hear both your questions and answers. Articulate your words and avoid mumbling. You might have to raise the volume of your voice as well. 

Stay responsive: 

• Do not ghost your interviewer, follow up with a thank you within 24 hours 
• Check your email at least twice a day for any follow up the employer has for you 
• Do not stress if you have not heard anything quickly, sometimes it takes a week or two to get a response 

Interview Questions

Categories of Questions: Although the questions you are asked from one interview to the next may vary, interview questions typically fall into one of the following categories:

• Who are you?
• What are your experiences?
• Why are you a good fit for this job?
• Situational questions

The STAR method is a way to answer interview questions about your behavior and how you have handled situations. This method also helps make sure you're clear and to the point during the interview. 

Situation: What happened? Describe the context. 

Task: What were you asked to do? Describe your responsibilities in the situation. 

Action: What did you do to address the issue? Describe how you completed the task. Focus on yourself rather than what the team or coworkers did. 

Result: What happened as a result of your action? Describe the outcomes or results. You may also explain what you learned from the experience. 

Other ways to practice interviewing include practicing in the mirror, having a friend/family member interview you, or watching videos on different interview habits and techniques. 

Tip: Steer clear of speaking negatively about your previous employers/coworkers.