The Interview
BE PREPARED
Have a list of questions based on your research ready to ask the interviewer. You should have some questions about the company, office environment, as well as logistical questions. It is appropriate at the end of the interview to ask what their timeline is for filling the position and what are the next steps in the process.
Ask permission to take notes; this will help you remember questions that may come to mind during the course of the interview. It is also critical to write down the names and titles of each person in the interview.
THE STAR METHOD
A great technique to keep in mind when asked a question that begins with, "Tell me about a time when..." is called the STAR method. The STAR method is a framework that helps you be more structured in how you answer interview questions. An example of when to use the STAR method is when an interviewer asks, "Tell me about a time when you overcame a difficult situation." When answering, your first step is to identify the story about past experience that describes the strengths you wish to convey to the interviewer. Then, use the STAR method to tell your story.
S&T: SITUATION OR TASK
Describe the situation or task. Where were you? What were you doing? What information does the interviewer need to know about the setting?This is where you set the scene, but be concise.
A: ACTION
Describe how you addressed the situation. What did you do and how did you do it? What action-steps did you take?
R: RESULT
State what happened as a result of your actions and how this demonstrates a skill or strength relevant to the job for which you are interviewing.
BE CONCISE
Most interviews start the same – “Tell me about yourself.” Be succinct and get to the point. Use this opportunity to talk about your professional experience framed to fit the job description and any hobbies that are relevant.
Be concise and confident in your answers. Just because the interviewer does not immediately ask another question does not mean you have to fill the space. You do not want to ramble on and on. However, there is a difference between concise and curt. If asked a closed-ended question such as, “Do you have experience working with SPSS?” your answer should start “Yes, and…” and expand on your experience. You should not answer simply “yes” or “no.”
BE AWARE OF YOUR NON-VERBALS
What is your posture communicating? Make sure to sit up and make eye contact with the interviewers. This communicates confidence and professionalism. Not convinced? Talk a look at this renowned TEDTalk: Your Body Language Shapes Who You Are.
BE CONFIDENT!
The best way to be confident in a job interview is to be positive, be poised, make eye contact, and don't forget to breathe and smile.
ASK QUESTIONS
Yes, it's important to have questions ready to ask the interviewer. The goal of asking the interviewer questions is to:
- Demonstrate your interest in the employer
- Find out if the employer is a good fit for you