Interviewing
Leave them with no choice but to hire you.
Your palms begin to sweat, voice gets shaky, and stomach does a flip. Trust us, we get it! Selling yourself on paper seems simple… But in person?! It can be scary. But, not to fear. Like any good athlete, you need to practice and prepare before going into the game! From questions to ask, strategies to use, and even mock-interview opportunities, you’ve got the ingredients you need for a batch of success.
Types of Interviews:
Questions you might be asked
General questions an interviewer may ask you
Questions to Ask
Sample questions to ask an interviewer
Practice Makes Perfect
Have a big job or internship interview coming up and not sure how to prepare? Like any good athlete, you need to practice before going into the game! Let us assist you in making a strategic game plan for acing your interview and landing the job.
What to do Before, After, and During the Interview
An interview is your opportunity to convince a potential employer that you are the right person for the position you want!
Before the Interview
Know yourself
Be able to discuss your career goals, skills, strengths, and accomplishments. Prepare specific examples of your experiences that demonstrate how your background, skills, and interests match the organization’s needs.
Research the employer
In addition to reviewing the employer’s website, helpful information can be found by searching recent news and articles about the organization on sites like Glassdoor and Dun & Bradstreet. Knowing the employer thoroughly will help set you apart during the interview process.
Practice your interview skills
Schedule a mock interview through handshake in the Office of Personal and Career Development and use InterviewPrep to practice before your real interview.
Arrive early.
Arrive 10-15 minutes early.
Dress Appropriately.
Body language.
Offer a firm handshake in greeting and at the close of the interview. Maintain eye contact. Avoid nervous mannerisms, such as fidgeting or touching your hair or face. Don’t cross your arms or hold things in front of your body. Sit up straight. Speak in a strong, confident tone of voice.
Listen.
Try to ascertain why particular questions are being asked before responding. If needed, ask for clarification.
Answer questions.
Employers commonly ask general questions and behavioral questions. When answering these questions, emphasize your strengths, what you have learned from past experience, and how you solved problems in response to challenges.
Ask questions.
Ask questions to show that you have researched the organization and have a willingness to learn more about it.
Be enthusiastic!
Enthusiasm is the most important part of the interview. Be excited about the opportunity. Speak positively regarding your past work and educational experiences as well as past employers. Smile!
Follow-up with a thank you letter!
What to Wear?
Other Resources
Career Core by Kaplan
Career Core by Kaplan is free to Wake Forest University students. The courses are taught by our very own Wake Forest professor Heidi Robinson and spotlighted Wake Forest students.