Depending on the nature of the position you are interviewing for, there are a few different types of interviews you can prepare for: phone screening, one-on-one, and group. You also have to consider the possibility that your interview could be in-person or virtual. Based on the industry you’re interviewing for, you may want to know how to answer personal, behavioral, situational, and/or technical questions.

Tips for a Successful Interview

• Research the company
  • You should know the company’s mission, vision, brief history, current projects, etc.
  • Prepare questions to ask at the end of your interview.
• Dress for the job
  • Wear business professional or business casual attire (black, gray, and jewel tones are good colors)
  • Make sure your skin, hair, and nails are clean and clipped
  • Do not wear strong perfumes or colognes
• Practice your body language
  • Make eye contact with who you are speaking with
  • Smile, lean in, and nod appropriately to show interest
• Be on time
  • Arrive 10 minutes early
• Follow Up
  • Send a thank you card or email to each interviewer within 24 hours.
  • Be brief and professional: express appreciation for the interview, reiterate your interest in the position, and remind employer of your relevant skills.

Additional Tips for Virtual Settings

• Test your technology
  • Be sure you have the correct software (Zoom, Teams, updates browsers, etc.)
  • Make sure your connection, microphone, and camera are functioning properly
• Find a good background
  • Your background should be clean and simple. Avoid distracting posters or pictures.
  • Pick a professional filter, if using one. No sports teams, beach scenes, etc.
• Find your lighting
  • Make sure there is a light source in front of you, not behind or on one side
• Avoid interruptions
  • Be sure to select a location where you won’t be bothered: keep animals out of the room, tell you family/roommates not to disturb you, make sure your phone and other notifications are silenced.