Interview Tips
General Pre-interview
- Do some background research & gather information about the organization.
- Know the first and the last name of the person(s) who will be conducting the interview.
- Know exactly where the interview will take place and how long it will take to get there. Plan to arrive 5-10 minutes early. Don't be late!
- Clear your schedule so that you don't have to limit the time for the interview.
- Decide at least the night before what to wear to the interview. Aim to look professional and well groomed.
- Get a good night's sleep before the interview.
Preparation
- Prepare some answers to common interview questions
- Prepare a list of questions to ask the interviewer
- Bring a copy of your resumé, a list of three references
- A paper and pen, for notes
- Make an appointment for a mock interview at Career Development
- Conduct an informal interview with someone in a similar field
The Interview
- Greet the interviewer with a smile and firmly shake his/her hand. Sit where indicated to do so.
- Maintain positive body language e.g. maintain eye contact and don't slouch or cross your arms.
- Be yourself! Don't use words that you don't understand or pretend to be something you are not.
- Stay on topic and ask for clarification where necessary and when appropriate.
- Answer each question clearly. Use specific examples rather than general statements when providing information about education, skills, and work experience.
- Ask questions from your prepared list that may have not already been answered.
- Confirm, if already noted, their response date.
- Shake hands and express your thanks for the interview before leaving.
Follow-up
- Immediately after the interview, write down your thoughts on what types of questions you were asked and how you responded. Keep these notes as a guide for future interviews.
- Send a brief Follow-up/Thank-you letter 24-48 hours after the interview.
Book a Mock Interview with Career Services
If you're looking to practice applying these tips, students can book an Employment Mock Interview with a Career Advisor and get feedback on their responses to common interview questions.
To book a mock interview with a career advisor:
Undergraduate students
- Book an appointment with a career advisor through Navigate for Students, a free mobile app that connects undergraduate students to the online and in-person resources they need to get things done at university. Download Navigate for Students now.
Graduate students
- Contact Julie Bowering, Career Development Coordinator (Graduate Studies) directly to book an appointment.