Use this community to find best practices for nailing that interview!
Interviewing
For the day of your interview, be sure dress appropriately, be on time, communicate professionally, ask questions and follow up with a thank you note.
Knowing the details of the job posting and the employer’s website is crucial. Arm yourself with knowledge about the organization, position and industry. Gorillas4Hire can provide you valuable information.
Attend any employer information sessions. Schedule a Mock Interview to help you become comfortable with the interviewing process.
A professional appearance can help you make a good first impression. Over 40% of job interviewers admitted that a formally-dressed candidate made a better impression than an informally-dressed one.
A dark suit (navy blue, black and dark grey) is best. Jeans, t-shirts and flip-flops are NEVER appropriate. Employers may request business casual attire (dress pants / khakis and button-down shirt / blouse). It’s better to be overdressed than underdressed!
Here are some more tips on what to wear.
Arrive 10-15 minutes before your interview time. Arriving this early will give you enough time for parking, finding your location and checking in with reception. Punctuality is often seen as a sign of reliability and responsibility. Employers want to hire individuals who can be trusted to meet deadline and fulfill their job responsibilities. Arriving on time for an interview is your first chance to showcase these qualities to an employer.
If you miss your on-campus interview appointment, you may be subject to “No Show” penalties. Review the cancellation policy to familiarize yourself with the interviewing responsibilities.
Respect is a key component in a successful interview. Use appropriate and professional language. Avoid rambling, using fillers, and exaggerating. Answer the questions asked as clearly and succinctly as possible. Foul language does not create a favorable impression. Consider your nonverbal communication – use your body language, facial expressions and gestures to convey confidence, enthusiasm, and professionalism. Remember to thank the recruiter at the end of the interview.
You should always prepare well-thought-out questions for the end of your interview. Asking questions shows your interest in the position and indicates you have done your research. Your questions should focus on the industry, the organization, and the position. Avoid asking questions can be answered by reviewing their website.
A thank you note restating your interest in the position and the organization should be sent within 24 hours of each interview, to each person with whom you spoke. Make each note somewhat different and try to reference something you discussed in the interview. An email thank you is fine, but a handwritten note is recommended.
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