Congratulations, you have been selected for an interview.  Here are some tips that will lead to interview success.

Preparation Tips

• Schedule an informational interview.  This is great way to network and learn more about your field of interest. *Do this before applying for the position. 
• Research the employer and trends in the industry. 
• Prepare a well thought out and concise, 30 second commercial about yourself.  Sell yourself!
• Practice answering “typical” interview questions.
• Come prepared to speak about your qualifications and experience and bring extra copies of your resume.
• Be prepared to speak about specific examples that display your qualifications and characteristics.
• Dress professionally.  Click here for tips on Creating a Professional Appearance.
  Arrive early to your interview.
• Complete the Interview Preparation Worksheet.
• Be pleasant with everyone you speak with before, during, and after the interview.

Typical Interview Structure

Making Contact-establishing rapport and structure.

Information Gathering –answering questions that focus on qualifications and responsibilities.

Closing-be prepared to ask the interviewer questions. Determine the next step in the interview  process.

Thank You Notes-send a thank you note within 24 hours.

Follow Up-after an appropriate amount of time, call to check on the status of the hiring process.

During the Interview

• Speak clearly and provide concise answers.
• Use appropriate body language.
• Listen carefully to questions and ask for clarification when necessary.
• When providing examples, tell about the situation, the action, and the result.
• It is okay to pause and think before answering a question.
• Make eye contact with the interviewer(s).
• Express confidence.
• Express interest and enthusiasm.

Sample Behavior Based Interview Questions

Behavioral Interview Questions are common because the most accurate predictor of future performance is past performance.  When answering phrase your response to first describe the Situation, then the Action you took, and finally the Result. 

• Describe a situation in which you were able to use persuasion to successfully convince someone to see things your way.
• Describe a time when you were faced with a stressful situation that demonstrated your coping skills.
• Give me a specific example of a time when you used good judgment and logic in solving a problem.
• Give me an example of a time when you set a goal and were able to meet or achieve it.
• Tell me about a time when you had to use your presentation skills to influence someone's opinion.
• Give me a specific example of a time when you had to conform to a policy with which you did not agree.
• Please discuss an important written document you were required to complete.
• Tell me about a time when you had to go above and beyond the call of duty in order to get a job done.
• Tell me about a time when you had too many things to do and you were required to prioritize your tasks.
• Give me an example of a time when you had to make a split second decision.
• What is your typical way of dealing with conflict? Give me an example.
• Tell me about a time you were able to successfully deal with another person even when that individual may not have personally liked you (or vice versa).
• Tell me about a difficult decision you've made in the last year.
• Give me an example of a time when something you tried to accomplish and failed.
• Give me an example of when you showed initiative and took the lead.
• Tell me about a recent situation in which you had to deal with a very upset customer or co-worker.
• Give me an example of a time when you motivated others.
• Tell me about a time when you delegated a project effectively.
• Give me an example of a time when you used your fact-finding skills to solve a problem.
• Tell me about a time when you missed an obvious solution to a problem.
• Describe a time when you anticipated potential problems and developed preventive measures.
• Tell me about a time when you were forced to make an unpopular decision.
• Please tell me about a time you had to fire a friend.
• Describe a time when you set your sights too high (or too low).

These sample questions are from the Quintessential Careers Website.