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Get help with interviewing

You got the interview!

It’s an opportunity for the employer to learn more about you, your related skills, strengths and experiences, and whether you are a fit for them. You will also learn more about them and whether they are a good fit for you.

Read our Interview Strategies Guide (PDF) and Academic Interview Guide (PDF) to find out what you need to know.

Here are some things to keep in mind:

Do your research

  • Know yourself, your education, your interests, your experiences and how they give you what it takes to do the job well. Be able to articulate the skills you have and how you developed them. Let them know that you have what they’re looking for!
  • Know the position and be able to relate your skills to the position responsibilities. Use concrete examples. If there is no salary listed in the posting, research the salary range for that kind of position.
  • Know the employer. What do they do and stand for? Where are they going? How are they growing? Who are their competitors? What are their values? What are their core accomplishments? Check them out on social media and on their website. Talk to people who work in the field – they probably know the company. Get creative!

Prepare and practice

  • Types of interviews: Interviews vary, depending on the industry, the profession and the size of the organization.
  • Sample questions: Check with professionals who work in the field to find out the kinds of interview questions to expect.
  • At the interview: Be aware that non-academic and academic interviews have similarities and differences.
  • Follow up: Following up with the employer demonstrates your interest in the position.

Choose your references

  • When selecting references, choose people who can talk about your skills and qualifications that enable you to do the job you are interviewing for.
  • Choose three or four people from paid or volunteer positions who have supervised you, and possibly a colleague.
  • You may also want to include one or two academic references (professors, T.A.s). If you’ve worked on group projects, include a student you’ve worked with.
  • Ask them for permission to use their name.
  • Before every interview, send them a reminder along with your application (resume and cover letter) and the job posting, if you have one.

This is your chance to shine! Good luck.