Interviewing
The Interview is critical to earning a job or internship offer. It is important to use professional etiquette, clearly communicate your strengths, and show your interviewer why you are the best fit for the position. There are a lot of things that go into a successful interview, and they are not just limited to the interview itself. The points below cover the most important parts of this process, and should help you prepare and perform well.
It is also important to familiarize yourself with our student policies regarding use of the Career Center.
Big Interview: Interview Prep Through William & Mary, you have open access to Big Interview's online interview preparation. Create an account with your W&M sign-in credentials for free access to both their Fast Track and Mastery Track curriculums. At Big Interview you have access to:
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The Office VisitOffice visits are where jobs are won or lost. During an office visit you will meet a number of people who will evaluate you on the basis of your qualifications as well as on your personality fit with that firm. The people you talk with will be asking themselves: Would I like to work with this person, or have them working for me? Format of the InterviewSecond and other subsequent rounds will differ. Office interviews usually consist of a series of interviews with several individuals including your potential supervisor, co-workers and higher-ranking staff members. Your day could include a tour, meal, and a group interview. You may encounter written applications, tests or even assessment exams determining your fit with other employees. Depending on the company, interviews may be informal, behavioral or case. On the office visit it is common to talk to at least two types of interviewers: fairly new employees who have been with the company two to ten years, and those who have been with the company for more than ten years. Keep in mind that every employee you meet, from the person who picks you up at the airport, to the recent alum you meet with for lunch, to the people with whom you formally interview, is evaluating your qualifications and "fit" for the position. In some instances, companies will assign each interviewer a specific quality or skill to probe during the interview. One interviewer will probe for leadership ability, another for analytical ability, another for communication skills, etc. After the process is complete, all the interviewers will meet to discuss the candidate and an offer may be made. Purpose of an Office VisitThe office visit serves two primary purposes: Allows the company to get a more in-depth assessment of the candidate prior to making a job offer PreparingPreparation for the company visit should not be taken lightly since the visit is the final step for most companies in deciding whether to make a job offer. Make an extensive list of questions after reading all the materials provided by the company, since you will have ample opportunities to ask questions. Avoid asking questions that can be answered by reading the literature. If you don't have any questions, this will weaken an interviewer's perception of you for two reasons:
Questions do not have to be profound. For example: Tell me about your career, how do you enjoy working for XYZ, are appropriate. Good questions will cover a wide range of topics including:
Questions such as: "So what do you all do?" or "What are the benefits?" do not sit well with most interviewers. You can ask the same questions of several people since most interviews are carried out in a face-to-face discussion and no one will know what you asked the last person or will ask the next person; however, be honest and consistent. If you play the game of trying to give each person you talk with the answer you think they want to hear, you may contradict yourself. One thing frequently overlooked, but extremely important, is personal preparation. Factors that constitute good personal preparation include:
Remember to bring papers, pens and take copies of your resume and transcript. Ask the company representative if there is anything else they would like you to provide. Remember names and titles of those people you meet. You can also ask for business cards in your interviews. ArrivalMost candidates arrive the night before the company visit. If flying, avoid very late flights or the last flight. When checking into the hotel, check for company messages. Also bring your credit card. Most hotels will ask to imprint a credit card for any charges not covered by the company. Companies may not cover entertainment costs, long distance phone calls or food expenses. It is not advisable to indulge in either the locked liquor refrigerator or pay-per-view movies. Remember to schedule a morning wake up call with the front desk, allowing plenty of time to get cleaned and dressed. Know where and when you will be meeting with the employer. Get accurate directions and a map if you need assistance. Social ReceptionOften companies will arrange a time for candidates and employees to socialize on a more informal basis the evening before the interview. Refreshment and light hors de oeuvres may be served. Remember this is an additional opportunity to speak with employees, learn more about the work environment and discuss mutual interests. Despite the temptation, avoid hanging out exclusively with your friends who may also be interviewing with the company. Make honest attempts to be outgoing and to meet as many company representatives as possible. If alcohol is served and you are underage, don't be tempted. Even if you are of legal drinking age, the best rule of thumb is to keep your head clear and don't drink. ReimbursementsCompanies generally pay for travel expenses associated with an office visit. This usually includes air or train fare, hotels, meals and cab fares. It is best to verify that a company will pay your expenses before you incur them. Always collect receipts for expenses. Often during the office visit, companies will schedule a time to fill out reimbursement forms. However if they don't, be sure to ask to whom you should send your receipts to and get a copy of the proper forms needed for reimbursement before you leave the office. Remember to keep your expenses within a reasonable range. |
Before the InterviewDo your research!
Confirm all details of the interview: time, date, location of interview, parking instructions, etc. Consider a test drive to confirm directions and potential travel time. Arrive 15 minutes early, any earlier may interrupt the interviewer's schedule. |
What to WearDress appropriately; business professional unless otherwise advised. If you do not have business professional attire, you can borrow from Cohen's Dress to Impress closet.
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During the InterviewKeep non-verbals in mind: solid handshake, eye contact, smile, and posture. Show interest in the job and organization; be yourself, show enthusiasm and confidence. Provide solid examples with details; avoid one word answers. Remember, it's a conversation; ask questions! Be sure to have questions prepared for the end of the interview that further clarify, as well as illustrate your knowledge of the position, role, department, etc. and show your interest in the organization, including:
Be positive about past experiences to show what you learned; avoid negative descriptions. |
After the InterviewAlways thank the interviewer for their time and reiterate your interest in the opportunity.
Review what happened in the interview with yourself - what went well, and what could you improve for next time? |
How to PreparePreparation is key to a successful interview. Take some time beforehand to orient yourself. What's Your Story?It is important to have answers to questions like these before the interview. Who are you? Why are you the best fit for the job?
STAR MethodOrganize and practice talking about the experiences you want to highlight. Use the STAR method to fully and adequately answer interview questions.
Preparing for a Skype Interview{{youtube:medium:center|rQwanxQmFnc, How to Look Good in your Skype Interview}} Preparing for a Phone Interview
Practice!
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Interview Question TypesThese are some of the several types of questions you may encounter in an interview. Standard QuestionsPrepare possible responses to standard/typical questions across all industries/functions, including:
Behavioral QuestionsDesigned to learn about your character, your experiences, and how you will fit in with the organization or team. Showcase your best performance by talking about your past experiences. Provide relevant examples to respond to questions related to specific skills required of the position.
Apply the STAR Method to reply to behavioral questions.
Case QuestionsThese are designed to see how you think quickly to analyze problems or situations.
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Illegal Questions/Things to Watch
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