Interview Preparation

Two women seated at a table during a professional interview in a hall with others nearby.

Interview Preparation - Conduct Research

To have a successful interview experience, it is essential that you prepare thoroughly. The following information will assist you in preparing for interviews and help you understand the interview process.

Where to Start Your Research
  • Organization Website

    • History/Overview

    • Mission, Vision, Values

    • Diversity Statement

  • Social Media of the Organization
  • Glassdoor, Indeed, etc.
  • LinkedIn

    • Follow the organization

    • Interact with their content

  • Recruiters/Connections

Research the Employer

An important step in preparing for an interview is to research the organization with whom you will be interviewing. Having information about what the organization produces, its history, its competitors, and its culture will allow you to effectively communicate your interest and your value to the organization. Employers tell us this step is most often where candidates fall short in the interview. 

Self-Assessment

By looking closely at yourself, you will gather information about your values, interests, skills, personal needs, and individual characteristics. This awareness of self will allow you to better articulate to an employer who you are, and it will assist you in making decisions about employment opportunities that are appropriate for you.

There are a variety of ways to learn more about yourself including career assessments, informational interviews, and reviewing your Clifton Strengths. Discussions with a Career Coach, advisor, faculty member, friend, or relative may help you clarify your values, interests, and skills. Regardless of the method used in self-assessment, remember that you are the best source of information about yourself.

Conducting both external and internal research equips you to better determine if a role is right for you, and if so, aids you in aligning yourself with your target employer

Traditional Interview Questions

Interviews often consist of two fundamental types of questions: traditional questions and behavioral questions. Each has its own format and purpose, and employers will ask them at any point during the interview process.

Traditional interview questions are applicable to all candidates, in a variety of career fields, regardless of the position for which that candidate is interviewing. They are more general in nature, and are aimed at determining how well a candidate knows him/herself. Some examples of traditional interview questions include the following:

Example Questions

  • What accomplishments have given you the most satisfaction?
  • What are your strengths and weaknesses?
  • How would a co-worker, friend, or supervisor describe you?
  • Describe three features of a job that are most important to you. 
  • What kind of work would you like to be doing in five years?
  • How do you define success?
  • Why are you interested in this career field?
  • What are the most important rewards you expect in your career?
  • What was your favorite course at UNL? Why?
  • Why did you choose to major in...?
  • What have you learned from participating in extra-curricular activities?
  • What were the biggest pressures in your last job?
  • What did you like most/least about your last job?
  • What do you know about our organization?
  • Why should we hire you?
  • How would you improve our product/service?
  • What salary do you expect?
Two people sitting across a table in a large room, engaged in conversation during an event.

When answering traditional interview questions, keep in mind that employers prefer candidates who can speak confidently and articulately about their skills and accomplishments. They are looking for responses that demonstrate the candidate has thought about both their abilities and the employer in advance of the actual interview.

Behavioral Interview Questions

Interviews often consist of two fundamental types of questions, traditional questions and behavioral types of questions. Each has its own format and purpose, and employers will ask them at many point during the interview process.

Question Examples

Behavioral interview question are based on the concept that the best predictor of future performance is past performance. These questions require you to provide information concerning how you reacted to certain situations in the past, therefore providing the employer with insight into how you might act in a similar situation as an employee. Some examples of behavioral interview questions include the following:

  • Tell me about a time when you had to analyze information and make a recommendation.
  • Give me an example of a time when you were able to communicate successfully with a person you may not have cared for personally.
  • Describe the most significant or creative idea you have developed. How did you implement it?
  • Give me an example of a time when you had to make a decision without all the information you needed.
  • Tell me about a time when you had to adjust to changes over which you had no direct control.
  • Describe a time when you had to handle a problem that presented challenging ethical issues.
  • Give me an example of a time you had a conflict with another individual. How did you deal with it?
  • Describe a situation in which you used your best leadership skills.
  • Tell me about a time you had to deal with a stressful situation. How did you handle it and what was the outcome?
  • Describe a time when you worked on a team. What role did you assume and what was the outcome?
  • Tell me about the most difficult problem you encountered in school.

START Method

One way to prepare for behavioral interview questions is to think of five to ten experiences or situations that relate to the skills required for the specific job. When responding to behavioral interview questions, implement the START Method:

Situation: describe the specific situation as it relates to the question being asked
Task: explain the task(s) you had to complete
Action: describe the specific action(s) and steps you took to complete the task
Results: highlight outcomes, goals achieved, and accomplishments related to the situation
Takeaways: highlight what you learned and how it relates to the position

Example Using the START Method

Question: Describe a situation when you worked on a team. What role did you assume and what was the outcome?

Answer: “(Situation) In my Consumer Behavior class, I was paired with three classmates for a group project to (Task) deliver a global marketing campaign for a large shoe manufacturer. Since nobody assumed the lead within this group, (Action) I decided to lead the effort by delegating tasks to each of my fellow students based on preferences and our team’s needs. I also accepted the responsibility of congregating our group during nights and weekends to ensure that our project remained on track. (Result) In the end, our campaign was deemed successful by our fellow classmates and our instructor, and we received an A on the assignment. (Takeaway) I learned the importance of starting early on a project, especially when working with a group.”

Phone and Video Interviews

Phone

A telephone interview is one of the most common first interview formats for organizations that have multiple steps in the hiring process. This is a cost effective way for them to get to know candidates and narrow down further who they would like to continue on with the interview process.

  • Ensure the room will be quiet and free of disruptions
  • Have your résumé, questions, and employer research handy, but avoid rustling papers
  • Sit up straight or stand up to make your voice stronger
  • Have your calendar/class schedule available if you are asked to schedule another interview
  • Smile as you interview. The interviewer can only gauge your energy and enthusiasm through your voice
  • Have a strong finish to your phone interview and leave a positive impression
  • Practice if possible. Have a friend call you to do a mock phone interview so you can get the feeling of being interviewed over the phone

Video

Video interviews are another cost-effective option that allow both parties to learn more about each other and feel more connected despite the distance.

  • Become familiar with whatever technology will be utilized during your interview; allow plenty of time to set up and test it
  • Dress professionally, as if it were an in-person interview
    • Avoid attire that blends in with your background
  • Ensure you have an appropriate user name
  • Review the background that can be seen and avoid inappropriate or distracting items; consider blurring your background
  • Check the lighting of the room to make sure there are no dark shadows or excessive brightness
  • Look at the camera, not the screen, to maintain proper eye contact
    • Use a sticky note to remind you to look at the camera.
    • If you have notes on your screen, it is very easy for people to tell when you are reading than answering genuinely
    • Put your computer/camera at eye level to make eye contact seem more natural

Sample Practice Interview Questions

Prepare Answers for these Common Questions

ARE YOU A FIT FOR US?
  • Tell me about yourself. 
  • What are your long-term and short-term career goals? 
  • What kind of what would you like to be doing in 5 years? 
  • How would you describe your ideal job? 
  • What do you think it takes to be successful in this career/ industry/organization? 
  • How familiar are you with the community we are located in? 
  • How would a professor/friend describe you? 
  • What are three words you would use to describe yourself? 
  • How do you defne success? 
  • What qualities do you feel a successful manager should have? 
  • Give an example of a time when you went above and beyond what was expected of you. 
  • Give an example of your ability to work independently
CAN YOU DO THE JOB?
  • Tell me more about your experience with ____ (résumé content). 
  • Describe a situation in which you were successful. 
  • Tell me about a time you worked well on a team (START). 
  • Tell me about a time you faced confict (START). 
  • What major problem have you had to resolve recently (START)? 
  • How do you handle pressure? 
  • What is/are your greatest strength(s)? 
  • What is/are your greatest weakness(es)? 
  • How has your education prepared you for this position? 
  • Do you think your grades are an accurate representation of your academic achievements? 
  • What have you learned from your extra-curricular involvement? 
  • Tell me about a time you failed at something (START). 
  • Provide an example of a time you demonstrated your leadership abilities (START). 
  • Describe a time when you were working in a group and the task you were trying to complete was not getting done (START). 
  • Explain the process you use when making a decision (START). 
  • Describe a time when you had to handle a difcult problem that presented ethical issues (START). 
  • Describe the most signifcant creative idea you have developed and how you implemented it (START). 
ARE WE A FIT FOR YOU?
  • Why are you interested in this position? 
  • Why did you choose your major/career? 
  • Are you willing to relocate? 
  • Are you willing to travel? How much/often? 
  • What kind of salary are you hoping for? 
  • Why do you want to work for us? 
  • How would you improve our product/service? 
  • What motivates you? 
  • How do you prefer to receive constructive feedback? 
  • How do you prefer to be recognized for achievements? 
  • What classes were your most/least favorite? Why? 
  • What criteria are you using to evaluate the organization for which you hope to work? 
  • How do you prefer to be managed? 
WRAP-UP QUESTIONS
  • Why should I hire you? 
  • What sets you apart from all the other qualifed candidates? 
  • Is there anything else about you that I should know that I have not asked? 
  • Do you have any questions for me?
QUESTIONS FOR THE ORGANIZATION
  • What are plans for future growth and expansion? 
  • Why do you enjoy working for this organization? 
  • What future challenges does this department face? 
  • Will I have a mentor during the early stages of my employment here? 
  • How does employee evaluation take place? 
  • What training or professional development is provided? 
  • Does your organization support other formal education? 
  • With what key departments or individuals will the person in this position interface? 
  • How does this department ft into the larger organizational structure? 
  • What are the next steps in this process? 
  • How important is diversity to you as an organization? What value does it bring you? 
  • What are your company’s most important values? 
  • What are you doing as an organization to actively ensure everyone feels included? 
  • Is the leadership team committed to diversity in the organization? Can you provide an example of this? 

10 Tips for Managing Job Interview Anxiety

If you have ever felt stressed or anxiety before an interview, you are not alone. Interview anxiety is extremely common as talking about yourself, being evaluated on your responses and ability to articulate your skills, and meeting strangers can trigger nerves. Even extroverted individuals who love talking to others may feel anxious before an interview. Remember that feeling anxious is often a sign that you want to do well! It is a way of saying, “I need to be prepared for this because it matters a lot.” With practice, you can become a master of your own anxiety, and use it to fuel your success in even the most nerve-wracking interview situations.

 

Before the Interview

Be Mindful of What You Eat and Drink

Interviewees may feel anxious the night before the interview and then, feeling tired the next day, drink coffee or soda in an effort to “stay sharp.” Anxiety is only heightened and more difficult to cope with as you increase your caffeine and sugar intake. Eat something light before the interview to keep from getting light-headed. Be sure to bring water with you, as nerves and lots of talking can lead to a dry mouth. 

Before the Interview

Intentionally Prepare

A well-prepared interviewee has an advantageous situation over their potential competition. One great way to prepare for an interview is to PRACTICE. At the Business Career Center, you can discuss interviewing strategies with a coach or do a practice interview in-person, virtually, or over the phone. Another resource for interview preparation is UNL’s Big Interview online platform, available at https://unl.biginterview.com/.

Before the Interview

Double Check the Details

Confirm the date and time of your interview. Plan on arriving 20 minutes early to account for potential transit hiccups. Have printed or written directions ready in case your phone malfunctions on the way to the interview. Consider making a practice trip the day before to ensure you know where you are going. Bring relevant materials, including your resume, cover letter, a pen, and a notepad. 

Before the Interview

Stay Cool

Here are some tips to remain calm and and look polished going into your interview: 

  • Apply antiperspirant (not deodorant) before bed 
  • Avoid caffeine and spicy foods 
  • Use the restroom to clean up your face and hair before going into the waiting room 
  • Carry a tissue or handkerchief in your pocket to wipe your palms or face 
  • Wear darker colors to hide sweat marks 
  • Keep your jacket of until you enter the building

Before the Interview

Start Small

Engage in small talk with the interviewer(s) while walking from the waiting area to the interview room to build rapport and make a connection that will help you relax during the interview.

During the Interview

Take your Time

You do NOT have to answer interview questions immediately - a brief pause to collect your thoughts will give you the valuable time needed to come up with a meaningful and genuine response. If you get flustered in the middle of answering a question, do not be afraid to ask to start over. If you cannot think of an answer to a question, ask if you can come back to that question at the end. 

During the Interview

Breathe

When you become anxious, your breathing shallows and your natural body rhythm gets out of sync because of the heightened state you are in. Try this simple breathing exercise, which can be practiced anywhere, before the interview. Breathe IN for a count of four, HOLD for two counts, then breathe OUT for a count of four. Do this for a minute or two as needed. 

During the Interview

Control Your Voice

Individuals dealing with anxiety may talk too fast, too loud, too monotone, or their voice may tremble. Here are some tips to sound your best, even when you are stressed: 

  • Posture - Good posture allows your lungs to fill properly, which can improve your voice quality 
  • Get your voice out of your throat - Before an interview, try to relax your throat and jaw muscles, as this will help you project your voice. Here are some ways to do this: Yawn and drop your jaw as far as it will go. Hum quietly with your lips closed and jaw loose. Massage your throat muscles to get rid of tightness. Try counting while you relax your jaw muscles. See if you can get to 25 seconds while you wait to be called back to your interview. 
  • Breathe from your stomach - When you speak, it should be as though your breath is entering from your stomach rather than being pulled down by your throat. Proper breathing means letting your stomach rise when you inhale and fall when you exhale. Do this before the interview to help you establish good body rhythm during a stressful situation. 
  • Warm-up your voice - Your voice does better when it has been properly warmed up. Warm up your voice by reading out loud. Practice your greeting and basic introduction out loud on the way to the interview. Use the frst few minutes after arrival to let the staf or interviewer know you have arrived, which is a great time to give your voice one last warm-up before the interview starts.

During the Interview

Avoid Fidgeting

One of the tell-tale signs of nervousness is fidgeting during the interview. Shaking your leg, clicking a pen, or picking your fingernails can be quite distracting for the interviewer. Here are some tips to deal with the nerves you are experiencing during an interview: 

  • Talk with your hands - By making small gestures with your hands while speaking, you will be unable to fidget and will come across more confident and passionate as a result. 
  • Clasp your hands when listening - Gently clasp your hands on or under the table and make an effort to avoid moving them unless you need to explain something that warrants and hand gesture. 

After the Interview

Take Time to be Proud of Yourself

You did it! You survived the interview and faced your fears. Take a moment to be proud of what you have accomplished, while also being mindful of ways in which you could improve before you face the challenge of interviewing again.