51福利社

A little preparation goes a long way. Use the list below to feel organized and ready.

Get to Know the Employer

• Review the organization鈥檚 mission, values, and culture
• Read the job or internship description carefully
• Explore the employer鈥檚 website and recent news
• Be ready to explain why you鈥檙e interested in this role and this organization

Know Your Story

• Identify skills and experiences that match the position
• Prepare examples from classes, work, athletics, leadership, or campus involvement
• Practice explaining how your experiences connect to the role

Plan the Details

• Confirm the interview date, time, location, and format
• Choose professional attire that fits the industry
• Bring extra copies of your resume, a notebook, and a pen
• Prepare a few questions to ask the employer

Practice Beforehand

• Review common interview questions
• Practice answering out loud

Schedule a mock interview with Career Education or use interview practice tools

Think of the interview as a professional conversation. Employers want to learn about your skills and how you communicate.

 Interview Tips

• Arrive early (or log in early for virtual interviews)
• Greet everyone professionally and confidently
• Listen carefully before answering
• Use clear examples when responding to questions
• Maintain positive body language and eye contact
• Be honest, enthusiastic, and yourself

 Answering Behavioral Questions

Many interviews include questions that start with 鈥淭ell me about a time when鈥︹��

Use the STAR Method:

• Situation: Set the scene
• Task: Explain your role
• Action: Share what you did
• Result: Describe the outcome or what you learned

Questions to Ask Employers

Asking questions shows interest and preparation. Try asking:

• What does a typical day look like in this role?
• How do you define success for this position?
• What training or support is available for new employees or interns?
• What do you enjoy most about working here?

Interviews come in many formats. Knowing what to expect can help you feel more confident.

 In-Person Interviews

• Dress professionally and arrive early
• Bring copies of your resume
• Be mindful of body language and professionalism

 Phone Interviews

• Find a quiet space with minimal distractions
• Have your resume and notes nearby
• Speak clearly and confidently

 Virtual Interviews

• Test your technology ahead of time
• Choose a quiet location with a neutral background
• Dress professionally from head to toe
• Look at the camera when speaking

 Panel Interviews

• Address all interviewers
• Make eye contact with different panel members
• Take your time answering questions

Your follow-up matters.

 Send a Thank-You Email

• Send a thank-you email within 24 hours
• Thank the interviewer for their time
• Reference something specific from the conversation
• Reaffirm your interest in the position

 Reflect and Follow Up

• Take notes on what went well and what you鈥檇 improve
• If you don鈥檛 hear back by the expected timeline, follow up politely

• Tell me about yourself.
• Why are you interested in this position?
• What strengths would you bring to this role?
• Tell me about a challenge you faced and how you handled it.
• Give an example of working on a team.
• What are your career goals?

Practicing these questions will help you feel more confident and prepared.

You don鈥檛 have to do this alone. Career Education offers:

• One-on-one career appointments
• Mock interviews
• Interview practice tools
• Job and internship opportunities through Handshake
• Career workshops and employer events

If you鈥檙e not sure where to start, reach out 鈥� we鈥檙e happy to help.