Research the position and organization before going to the interview and try to obtain a detailed job description. Use the web to research the company and read any printed materials available. Discuss the position with anyone you know who might have insights into the organization. This information will enable you to target your comments to the job and the organization and will demonstrate your interest. Your research will also help you formulate questions to ask the interviewer. Good questions display your thinking skills, your understanding of the position and you enthusiasm.
Be prepared to discuss not only why you are the best person for the job but also how your strengths and abilities relate to the position. Provide examples from previous employment or activities to exemplify your skills. If you are unsure of what your skills are or how to describe them well, set up a meeting with one of the career services staff.
In addition to discussing your strengths, learn to discuss your values in relation to work and lifestyle. Answers to questions such as in what kind of work environment do you feel most comfortable? Why have you chosen the career for which you prepared? Does the idea of relocation concern you? reflect your values. Thoughtfully answering these or similar questions demonstrate maturity and a strong sense of direction. If your answers are compatible with the values and structure (or culture) of the company, you are seen as a potential employee who will be content with the job and committed to the organization.
While preparing, identify any concerns you may have about the interview. Imagine the worst-case scenario and how you would handle it. Be prepared to discuss your weaker areas or lack of experience. Present weaknesses in the most positive light possible and offer examples of how you are building your skills in those areas. If the question is about an area of inexperience, discuss similar experiences you’ve had, particularly experiences that required the same skills. Preparing in advance will enable you to present yourself favorably even as you are discussing a weakness.
Types of Interviews
Screening – Short, first interviews. First impressions are crucial. Conducted over the phone, on campus, or at the organization.
On-site Interviews – Takes place at the organization. Usually talk to several people while there. Appropriate to ask for the agenda in advance so you can prepare and learn names of people you will be meeting.
Commonly Asked Interview Questions (small sample)
Personal Assessment and Career Direction
- How would you describe yourself?
- Why did you choose this career?
- What motivates you to put forth your greatest effort?
- Why should I hire you?
- In what kind of work environment do you feel most comfortable?
- How would you describe your ideal job?
Work attitudes
- How do you define success?
- What qualities should a successful manager possess?
- Define the relationship that exists between a supervisor and supervisee.
- What is the best type of compensation structure?
Academic Assessment
- Describe your most rewarding college experience.
- Why did you select your college or university?
- What led you to choose your field of major study?
- How would you have planned your academic study differently if you could?
- Do you have plans for continued study? An advanced degree?
Knowledge of Employer
- Why did you decide to seek a position with this organization?
- What contributions do you think you could make to this organization?
Sensitive Issues
- You seem overqualified for this position. Can you explain why you applied?
- How much do you think this position pays?
- What is the hardest job you have ever performed?
Behavioral Questions
- If your supervisor were setting impossible deadlines, what would you do?
- How would you handle a situation where your direct supervisor asked you to do something that was not consistent with your professional judgement?
Questions to Ask the Interviewer
- What are the responsibilities of this position?
- What are the reputations, academic training, and tenures of employees in this department?
- Do you support professional development? How?
- What are the established guidelines and procedures for making decisions in this position?
- How is performance measured in this position? How often is it measured?
- What happens next?
For a larger list of questions and more Interviewing tips including tips on Interview Etiquette, visit UVM Career Services.