Prep for Interview

ANALYZE THE JOB + COMPANY
Review the job description, consider what the company is seeking in a candidate and make a list of
the skills, knowledge, and qualities that are required. Find out what you can about the company to
help answer questions and create questions.
 
MAKE A MATCH
Create a list of your top 10 assets that match the job description. Consider experiences, abilities,
certifications, computer skills, etc.
 
PRACTICE INTERVIEWING
Use our list of questions to practice with a friend and prepare some "professional stories" for
those common questions.
 
PICK OUT YOUR OUTFIT
Have an interview-ready outfit that's always ready to go. Don't scramble at the
last minute. Make your first impression by looking neat and put together.
 
GROOM AND STYLE
Find right hairstyle for your hair-type to ensure it's not falling in your face while
speaking. Wear low-key accessories, and smell good, but not too perfume heavy.
 
WHAT TO BRING
Always bring something to write on and with - you might think of a question or want to jot down
an idea to follow-up on. We recommend a professional bag and padfolio so you are not fumbling
your resume, phone, keys, and notepad.
 
LISTEN + ASK QUESTIONS
Be ready to engage the interviewer in a give and take the conversation, as you build
a relationship. Ask your prepared questions and show interest.
 
SAY THANKS
Send a thank you card or email to your interviewers within 24 hours.

Practice Questions

CAN YOU TELL ME ABOUT YOUR SELF?
Start with 2-3 specific accomplishments or experience you want your interviewer
to know about. Then connect a few of your prior experiences to the role.
 
WHY DO YOU WANT TO WORK HERE?
Companies want to hire people who are passionate about them and the job. Name a couple key
factors that make the organization and role a good fit. Quote their vision and mission for extra
brownie points.
 
WHY SHOULD WE HIRE YOU?
Craft an answer that specifically covers three things: that you can not only do the
work, you can deliver great results; that you'll really fit in with the team and culture;
and that you'd be a better hire than any of the other candidates.
 
WHAT ARE YOUR PROFESSIONAL STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES?
Be specific (instead of “people skills,” choose “persuasive communication” or “relationship
building”). Follow up with an example of how you've demonstrate these traits in a professional
setting. For your weakness choose something you honestly struggle with but have worked to
improve.
 
"I've never been strong at ____, but I've taken these steps to improve..."
 
TELL ME ABOUT A CHALLENGE OR CONFLICT YOU'VE FACED IN THE WORKPLACE.
Briefly mention the issue then focus on how you handled the situation
professionally and productively, choosing a happy ending; like how you lead the
resolution or compromise. Think of a situation ahead of time and prepare!
 
WHAT ARE YOUR SALARY REQUIREMENTS?
STOP. Do not answer this question in an interview. Instead say, "I would feel
more comfortable discussing this once I've received an offer."
 
HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH STRESSFUL SITUATIONS?
Rehearse with a situation that shows that you can meet a stressful situation head-on
in a productive, positive manner and let nothing stop you from accomplishing
your goals. Share your go-to stress-reduction tactics.
Always provide concrete examples.
 
SITUATION - TASK - ACTION - RESULT (STAR)