Pre Interview
- Practice, Practice, Practice: Practice answering sample interview questions (some are provided below), along with coming up with examples to best describe your skills and experiences. Prepare your elevator speech!
- Research: Learn as much as you can about the hiring unit, the position and the individuals on the search committee. Know the interviewer's name and use names during the interview. When possible try to relate what you know about the unit when answering the questions.
- Be Ready: Make sure you are dressed for success. Also, bring a nice portfolio with copies of your cv/resume, including a pen and paper for note taking. Prepare and bring your professional references to the interview, just in case the hiring supervisor makes such request. If relevant, bring a sample of your work.
At Interview
- Be On Time: On time means 5 to 10 minutes early.
- Stay Calm: Try to relax and stay as calm as possible. Maintain eye contact with the interviewers. Listen to the entire question before you answer and be decisive when responding
- Sell Yourself: Don't be shy. Smile. Show your great personality. Show confidence. Do not undersell your qualifications, experience, and interest in the opportunity.
- Answer the Questions: Completely answer each question. Understand what is being asked of you and provide specific details, examples and outcomes. If you do not understand the question, ask for clarification.
- Ask Questions: Prepare questions to ask at the end related to the unit and/or the position.
- Firm Shake: At the end of the interview, thank each interviewer for their time (by name if possible) and give a firm handshake.
Sample Questions
- What work experiences make you an ideal candidate? Or tell us a little about yourself
- What are a few of your strengths?
- What is one of your weaknesses?
- How do you handle stress and pressure?
- How do you go about developing rapport (working relationships) with individuals at work?
- How do you evaluate your own success?
- What do you like most about your current/past job?
- What do you like least about your current/past job?
- What do you know about our unit (or position) so far?
- How do you prioritize and organize your workload?
- Tell me a time when you had to handle a difficult work situation. How did you go about addressing and resolving the matter?
- Why are you interested in this position?
- What questions do you have for us?
Post Interview
- Follow Up: Always follow up with a thank-you note (email is fine) reiterating your interest in the position within 24 hours of your interview. If you interview with multiple people, send each one a personal thank you.
- Stay Positive: Be optimistic and patient.
