Prepare for your interview
Your job interview is where all your hard work pays off—it's an important moment where you have the chance to shine. Good preparation is essential, and your Graduate Career Center team will support you through that process with proven resources and tools.
What you need to know
- Review the job description thoroughly and connect your skills to what the employer needs ahead of time.
- Research your employer and know what questions you want to ask about the business. One approach is to see if Forage, our partner for virtual work experiences, offers courses for your company of interest that could make you more familiar with the culture and potential job roles. Learn more about virtual work experiences here.
- Practice online with Big Interview—and when you're ready, schedule a live mock interview to receive personalized feedback on your strengths and weaknesses.
- Take care of details such as prepping your business attire and determining the exact interview location the day before.
- Get a good night's sleep so you can be your best and most prepared self.
Commonly Asked Questions
Employers will ask questions you expect, such as “Why did you apply for this position?,” but also questions that may catch you off guard, such as “Can you tell me something about yourself that isn't on your résumé?” Spend some time thinking carefully about your skills and experience so you can connect them to whatever topic the employer wants to discuss.
Some common interview topics:
- What are you looking for in a company culture?
- Tell me about a time when you faced a complex situation at work and didn't know how to resolve it.
- Describe a time when you were able to bring creativity to your role at work.
- What motivates you to do a good job?
You'll need to be able to chat expertly with your interviewer about the company and its goals.
Dig into the company's website as well as resources offered through the Graduate Career Center such as D&B Hoovers and Firsthand to familiarize yourself with the company's products and services, its reputation, its competitors, and other key information. You may also want to pursue a simulated virtual work experience with the company to build familiarity. Be prepared to ask thoughtful questions that show you understand the company's positioning and perspective.
While the interview is still fresh in your mind, jot down your observations about the company and how you perceived your performance. Record all the questions you can remember that weren't on your original preparation list, because each interview offers valuable insights for the next.
You should also write a prompt, personal thank-you note to each interviewer that shows your appreciation for the opportunity and reiterates your interest in the position. Be sure to refer to any specific conversations you had with each—this makes you more memorable.
Helpful resources
