Career Advice — Interviewing Tips

Dec 1, 2017 | Blog, Student Success

Congratulations, you scored a job interview! Now what?

The interview is your opportunity to show a potential employer how great it would be to have you on their team. Use these tips and resources to create a successful experience.

Remember the interview is the employer’s opportunity to assess your fit for a position and the organization as a whole.

Regardless of the format (phone/video or in-person, one-on-one or panel), most interviews take a common sequence:

  • INTRODUCTIONS – A few minutes of small talk to set the tone of the interview.
  • INFORMATION – Brief summary of the employer, position, and possibly the format of the interview.
  • QUALIFICATIONS – Questions and answers about your qualifications for the position.
  • CONCLUSIONS – Explanation of next steps in the selection process.

Before the Interview

  • Research the organization’s purpose, structure, strengths, and challenges.
  • Obtain a copy of the position description.
  • Evaluate your interests, skills/abilities, and weaknesses for the position/organization.
  • Practice interviewing with a career advisor or employer through Career Services.

Obtain professional and appropriate attire for the position.

  • Know the exact location of the interview and plan to arrive 10 minutes early.

During the Interview

  • Be courteous to everyone you encounter; staff may be asked for their input on your interactions.
  • Turn off your phone and do not use it while waiting for the interview.
  • Bring a short paragraph about yourself to be able to quickly and concisely share who you are.
  • Stay positive and show enthusiasm for the position.
  • Be prepared to share information about your interests, education, work style, and experience.
  • Do not be too personal and be mindful of how long it takes you to answer a question.

Questions You May Ask the Interviewer

  • What kinds of assignments can I expect in the first six months?
  • What are the primary challenges I will face in the position?
  • What is the largest problem facing your staff or department?
  • What is the next course of action in your search process?

Questions to Not Ask the Interviewer

  • What is the salary for this position?
  • Can you describe the leave policy?
  • How quickly can I expect to be promoted?
  • Do you financially support staff in graduate studies (or other questions that may imply you see this as a short-time job)?

After the Interview

  • Send a thank you note to each of your interviewers. (See Resume and Letters for helpful hints on creating a thank you note)
  • Follow-up with a phone call or email if you have not heard from the employer within the time period indicated for a decision.

Additional Resources

Recent Blog Posts

Circle of Hope Winter 2025

| Winter 2025 |Circle of HopeWhy Diversity MattersGreetings, my dear friends and relatives,I want to start by expressing my deep thanks to each of you for reaching out to me, and others across the College Fund team, to share your concerns for us, as well as reminding...

Rural America Loses If We Lose Tribal Colleges

Rural America Loses If We Lose Tribal Colleges

Cheryl Crazy Bull warns that federal funding cuts threaten Tribal Colleges and Universities, which provide affordable, community-focused education for Native and rural students. She highlights their impact on workforce development, economic growth, and student success, urging continued investment to secure their future.