BEFORE THE INTERVIEW

Thoroughly research the organization before your interview. Learn about the company's mission, values, products or services, recent news, and workplace culture. Understanding the organization will help you tailor your answers and demonstrate genuine interest in the position.

Carefully review the job posting and identify the skills, qualifications, and experiences the employer is seeking. Pay close attention to repeated words, required qualifications, preferred skills, and the responsibilities listed in the position description.

As you read, think about examples from your own work, classes, volunteer experiences, leadership roles, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate those qualities. These examples will help you answer interview questions with specific, relevant stories.

EECS Tip: Highlight or underline key words in the job description, then match each one with an example from your own experience before the interview.

Prepare two to five thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer. Asking meaningful questions demonstrates your interest in both the position and the organization while helping you determine whether the opportunity is a good fit for your goals.

Focus on questions about the role, team, company culture, training, professional development, or what success looks like in the position. Avoid asking questions that can easily be answered by reading the company's website or job posting.

Examples include:

• What does success look like during the first 90 days?

• How would you describe the team culture?

• What opportunities are available for professional growth?

• What do you enjoy most about working here?

• What are the next steps in the hiring process?

EECS Tip: Write your questions down and bring them with you. You may not have time to ask every question, but having them prepared shows professionalism and genuine interest.

Conduct a mock interview using Big Interview or practice with a friend, instructor, mentor, or Career Coach. Focus on communicating your experiences clearly and confidently rather than memorizing answers.

Extra Resource:

• Don’t Memorize Interview Answers. Connect the Dots.

Conduct a mock interview using Big Interview or practice with a friend, instructor, mentor, or Career Coach. Focus on communicating your experiences clearly and confidently rather than memorizing answers.

Extra Resource:

• Don’t Memorize Interview Answers. Connect the Dots.

If your interview is in person:

• Plan your route ahead of time.

• Arrive approximately 15 minutes early.

• Bring enough copies of your résumé for each interviewer.

For virtual interviews:

• Test your camera, microphone, and internet connection before your interview.

• Choose a quiet, well-lit location with minimal distractions.

• Keep a printed copy of your résumé nearby for reference.

Practice your professional introduction or elevator pitch so you can confidently introduce yourself at the beginning of the interview. (Need help? Visit our Networking page.)

Dress Professionally

Choose clothing that is clean, neat, and appropriate for the position and workplace. Professional attire varies by industry, so if you're unsure what to wear, ask your recruiter or research the organization's dress code.

Professional doesn't have to mean expensive. Employers are evaluating much more than your clothing. They also notice your preparation, communication, confidence, and professionalism. A clean, well-fitting outfit is often more important than buying something new.

• Plan your outfit the day before.

• Make sure your clothing is clean and wrinkle-free.

• Wear comfortable, workplace-appropriate shoes.

• Avoid clothing with distracting graphics or slogans.

EECS Tip: If you need interview clothing, talk with EECS. We can help connect you with local resources that offer free or low-cost professional attire, such as community organizations and thrift stores.