Good Interview Practices

Congrats on landing an interview! We know the job search process isn’t always easy, so landing an interview is huge in taking the steps to launching your career. As you schedule your interview and get ready to ‘wow’ them, consider the following to help you land your dream job:

1. Practice & Prepare: Review the common job interview questions employers ask and practice your responses. Those questions include:

   1. Tell me about yourself. 

   2. What attracted you to our company?

   3. Tell me about your strengths and weaknesses.

   4. Where do you see yourself in five years?

   5. What do you know about our company?

Your answers should also emphasize the skills that are most important to the employer and relevant to the position. Be sure to review the job listing, make a list of the requirements, and match them to your experience. 

Also, be sure to have a list of your own questions to ask the employer. It is important to have at least one or two questions prepared in order to demonstrate your interest in the organization.

1. Research the Company, and Show What You Know: Do your homework and research the employer and the industry, so you are ready for the interview question, “What do you know about this company?”. You should be able to find a lot of information about the company’s history. 

2. BE READY! Don’t wait until the last minute to pick out an interview outfit, print extra copies of your resume, or find a notepad and pen. When you have an interview lined up, get everything ready the night before. Being prepared ahead of time can help reduce job search anxiety. If you’re interviewing virtually, have all the technology set and ready in advance. For more information, refer to our Video Interview Tips.

3. Be on Time (That Means Early): If you’re not 5-10 minutes early, you’re late. As an SLTC student, you’re familiar with this practice. Being punctual for your interview will provide a good first impression for your future employer. 

4. Stay Calm: During your interview, try to relax and stay as calm as possible. Some good tips to remember is to:

   1. Maintain eye contact with the interviewer. 

   2. Actively listen to the interviewer so you know exactly what they’re asking

   3. Avoid cutting the interviewer off at all costs

   4. Avoid using ‘ums’ or ‘uhs’, instead, pause and take a moment to think about your answer

5. Follow-Up After the Interview: ALWAYS follow up with a thank-you note reiterating your interest in the position. This keeps you on the top of mind with the interviewer and shows your dedication to the position and company.

While these tips won’t guarantee you the job, maintaining good interview practices will give you the best opportunity to impress your interviewer and stand out above the rest.