VSTUDENT ERSION
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Introduction
Introduction
1. Before the Interview: Research and Preparation
1. Before the Interview: Research and Preparation
Research the Company/Organization/School: 1.
Know the basics: Understand the mission, values, products/services, and recent achievements
Explore the culture: Look up the organization’s website, social media profiles, and employee reviews (e.g., Glassdoor) to learn about the work environment.
Understand the Role: 2.
Review the job description or program details carefully Understand the key responsibilities, qualifications, and skills required.
Know Your Resume/Application: 3.
Be prepared to discuss any experience, skills, or activities listed on your resume or application Have specific examples ready to demonstrate your achievements
Practice Common Interview Questions: 4.
Behavioral Questions (e.g., “Tell me about a time when…”): Use the STAR Method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses
Situational Questions: How you would handle hypothetical situations
Traditional Questions (e.g., “Tell me about yourself,” “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”)
Technical Questions (if relevant): Review subject-specific questions for technical roles or programs.
Prepare Your Own Questions: 5.
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask the interviewer, such as:
“What qualities make someone successful in this role/program?”
“Can you describe a typical day in this position?”
Plan Your Outfit: 6
Choose professional attire suitable for the interview When in doubt, dress conservatively and avoid overly casual clothing.
2. The Day Before the Interview
Prepare Your Documents: 1.
Bring extra copies of your resume, a list of references, and any work samples or portfolio pieces if applicable.
Know the Logistics: 2.
Confirm the interview time, location, or video conferencing details. Test your technology (camera, microphone, and internet connection) for virtual interviews.
Get a Good Night’s Sleep: 3.
Aim to be well-rested and energized for the interview.
3.DuringtheInterview: PresentationandCommunication
4. After the Interview: Follow-Up
Send a Thank-You Email: 1. Within 24 hours, send a personalized thank-you email to the interviewer(s). Mention specific points from the interview and express your appreciation. Reflect on the Experience: 2. Take notes on what went well and what you could improve. This will help you prepare for future interviews.
Years from now a person may not remember the words you spoke, but they will remember the way you made them feel.
Communication takes on many forms and functions. You can say the same thing in a hundred different ways and have a hundred different reactions, just by the way you choose to do it.
Dale Carnegie
said, “The rare individual who satisfies the heart’s hunger will hold people in the palm of his hand.”
5. Common Interview Questions and How to Answer Them
“Find out what you like doing best and get someone to pay you for doing it.”
-Katharine Whitehorn
1.
“Tell me about yourself.”
Provide a brief overview of your background, education, skills, and why you’re interested in the role/program.
2.
“Why do you want to work/study here?”
Mention specific aspects of the organization or program that align with your goals, skills, and values.
“What are your strengths and weaknesses?” 3.
Choose strengths that match the role and demonstrate how you’ve worked to improve weaknesses.
4.
“Describe a challenging situation you’ve faced and how you handled it.”
Use the STAR Method to explain how you effectively dealt with a challenging situation.
“Where do you see yourself in 5 years?” 5.
Discuss your long-term goals and how the role/program fits into your career plan.
6. Tips for Virtual Interviews
1. Choose a Quiet, Well-Lit Space: Find a location with good lighting and minimal distractions. Position your camera at eye level.
Test Your Technology: Ensure your internet connection, camera, microphone, and any software (e.g., Zoom, Microsoft Teams) work properly.
2. Dress Professionally: Wear professional attire, just as you would for an in-person interview.
4.
3. Maintain Eye Contact: Look into the camera when speaking to create a sense of eye contact.
7. Additional Resources and Practice
8. What to Avoid During the Interview
Hey, You Did It!
“Imagine where you can go with a scholarship and a dream!”
“Imagine where you can go with a scholarship and a dream!”
Let’s Imagine
