Interview Tips

You’ve been granted an Interview ... Now What?

First you should congratulate yourself! You’ve passed the screening stage and have been asked to take part in an interview. The next step is to prepare for the interview.

  • When you are called for the interview, get as much information as possible. Ask who will be taking part in the interview, including their titles.
  • Ask what type of interview it will be: a panel of interviewers, or a series of separate interviews? Will there be a written or presentation component as well?
  • Ask if there is anything you should bring to the interview: references, work samples, etc.
  • Make the company aware of any accommodations you may require in order to participate fully in the interview process.
  • Read the job description carefully and identify the main components of the job. The questions you’ll be asked will likely be based on these components.
  • So you’ve identified the main components of the job. Now write down an example of an accomplishment for each component which best illustrates your skill or experience.
  • While it is impossible to predict all of the questions you may get asked in an interview, it is important to anticipate what type of questions you may get asked. Generally, three types of questions are asked: 1. Knowledge-Based Questions; 2. Situational-Based Questions; and 3. Behavioral-Based Questions.
  • Questions you can expect could be along the lines of:
    • How would your background help prepare you for this position?
    • When previously faced with situations similar to those expected in this position, how did you react to ensure work was done efficiently and effectively?
    • What steps do you take to manage tight deadlines on multiple projects?
  • Try to imagine other questions from each of these three categories you may be asked, based on what you learned from the job ad and the call you received inviting you to the interview.
  • Learn as much as you can about the organization, department and people who will be interviewing you. For example, you might look at the department’s business goals so you understand the overall mandate of the department. Knowledge is power in an interview. The more you have the better off you will be in the interview.
  • Create a list of questions to ask after the interview, which will display your knowledge of, and interest in, the organization.
  • Create a list of at least three professional references with at least one direct supervisor. Make sure to include: full name, title, phone number, e-mail address and relationship to you (ie: supervisor, coworker, etc).

Preparing for Interviews Quick Reference Guide