Preparing for your Interview

What the Employer is Seeking

       Communication skills Focus & attention to detail Ability to learn Honesty & accountability Teamwork & potential fit within their organization Adaptability An employee who will be an asset to the organization

Prepare for the Interview

     Research the company: Attend an employer presentation, read about the employer and the position, talk to faculty, past interns, or a company employee.

Identify YOUR Key Strengths Practice Pack Appearance counts!

Professional Presentation

 What does professionalism look like…or not?

 Arrive 5-10 minutes early        A firm, but gentle, handshake – not a monster grip!

Eye contact Eagerness & enthusiasm Neat clothing Personal cleanliness Eating Communication

Why the Challenging Questions?

    Qualifications Fit Information - STAR - Past actions are the best prediction of future behavior.

Technical ability

QUESTIONS YOU MIGHT BE ASKED  Some of the old favorites:  Tell me about yourself.

 What are your long-range goals?

 What are your greatest strengths?

 What are your greatest weaknesses?

 Why did you choose your major?

 Do you prefer to have a lot of supervision or do you work well on your own?

Behavior-Based Questions

 Some of the new favorites:  Give me an example of a time when you set a goal and were able to meet or achieve it.

 Tell me about a time when you were extremely busy and had to prioritize your tasks.

 Describe an unpopular decision you had to make.

 Give me an example of a time when you motivated others.

Additional Interview Tips

      Directions Ask questions Thank the interviewer Ask for a business card Offer another firm, but gentle, handshake Send a thank you note