Career Services - Katie and Cheryl

Summary

In this insightful discussion, Katy Mes and career advisor Cheryl Carr share valuable tips for interview preparation. They emphasize the importance of researching the company, practicing responses through mock interviews, and understanding body language. Cheryl highlights common pitfalls, such as neglecting to align skills with job descriptions and the significance of professional attire. The conversation also covers handling unexpected questions and the necessity of sending personalized thank-you notes post-interview. With over 20 years of experience, Cheryl's advice equips students and alumni with the tools to navigate the interview process confidently.

Takeaways

• 😀 Research the company's mission, values, products, and culture to prepare effectively for the interview.
• 🎤 Conduct mock interviews to build confidence and receive constructive feedback.
• 📝 Rehearse your answers out loud, using a mirror or recording device to improve delivery and body language.
• 🚫 Avoid common mistakes like not researching the company or failing to articulate how your skills align with the job.
• 👔 Dress professionally and appropriately to make a positive first impression and boost confidence.
• 😊 Show enthusiasm and genuine interest during the interview to connect with interviewers.
• 👀 Maintain good eye contact and engage with all members of a panel interview to demonstrate your interest.
• 🤔 If caught off guard by a question, take a breath, clarify if needed, and answer honestly using relevant experiences.
• 📧 Always send a thank-you email within 24 hours of the interview to express appreciation and reinforce your interest.
• 🗓️ Follow up with potential employers if you haven't heard back within one to two weeks to reiterate your interest.

Q & A

Why is researching the company important before an interview?

Researching the company is crucial because it allows candidates to answer questions like 'What do you know about our company?' and 'Why do you want to work here?' effectively. Understanding the company's mission, values, and culture can help candidates align their skills with the company's needs.

What types of resources should candidates use for company research?

Candidates should look at the company's website, including its mission and values, as well as products and services. They can also check platforms like Glassdoor for employee reviews and news articles to gain insights into the company culture.

How can mock interviews benefit job seekers?

Mock interviews help candidates gain confidence and practice their answers in a low-pressure setting. Career Services professionals can provide feedback on their performance, which improves their preparation for the actual interview.

What common mistakes do candidates make in interview preparation?

Common mistakes include failing to research the company adequately, not knowing how their skills align with the job description, and not being prepared to communicate their qualifications in a professional manner.

What advice is given regarding interview attire?

Candidates should choose professional and conservative attire, preparing it the night before to avoid looking disheveled. It's recommended to overdress rather than underdress, and personal grooming should be taken seriously to project confidence.

How can body language affect an interview?

Body language plays a significant role in communication during an interview. Candidates should display engaged body language, maintain eye contact, and use appropriate gestures to show enthusiasm and interest in the conversation.

What should candidates do if they encounter an unexpected question during the interview?

If caught off guard by a question, candidates should take a moment to breathe, gather their thoughts, and consider asking for clarification before answering. Honesty about their experience and how they would handle hypothetical situations is important.

Why is storytelling important in behavioral interviews?

Storytelling is vital because it allows candidates to connect their experiences to the questions asked, demonstrating their problem-solving abilities and making their answers more memorable to the interviewer.

What should candidates do after the interview?

Candidates should send a thank-you email within 24 hours to express appreciation for the interviewer's time. This reinforces their genuine interest in the position and keeps them top of mind for the employer.

How should candidates handle thank-you notes for multiple interviewers?

For panel interviews, candidates should send personalized thank-you emails to each interviewer rather than a single general note. This shows attention to detail and helps each interviewer feel valued.