Introduction of Module
Interviews are the way you market yourself, the qualities you possess to get the job and let the company know what you have to offer them to be effective. Interviews come in various styles, consist of making a positive impression quickly and marketing your skills to an employer.
Learning objectives
- Be familiar with the various interview styles
- Know the product and be able to sell the product (you) to the employer
- Apply the skills addressed below during your interview
Pre-module reflection questions
- What are your expectations during an interview?
- How would you answer the question, tell me about yourself?
Content:
- Make your first impression positive
- Arrive on time
- Wear proper attire
- Exhibit positive nonverbal and verbal behavior, including posture and language
- Review personal traits – make yourself and your character known through examples of your work
- Review job description and company information before you interview
- The Product
- Know the product—you!
- Know the customer’s needs
- Review the company website, network with others inside the company at career fairs, and use the internet to learn about culture, and history.
- Do not ask “Googleable” questions during the interview.
- Make great first impression
- Show how you can be effective/benefit.
- Break in new shoes well before this interview. You do not want to be hobbling from a blister or pinched toes!
- Types of interviews—There are various types/styles of interviews. It is possible that more than one interview type would be included over the interview process.
- Behavioral
- Case
- Group/panel
- Stress
- Technical
- Traditional
- Virtual
For more information: https://careercenter.tamu.edu/Documents/Interviewing/Interview
- The day of the interview
- Arrive early
- Good first impression
- Take the lead from the interviewer
- Carry a good portfolio
- Listen carefully, answer completely
- Know the key points you want to include
- Be prepared to include situations/events
- Prepare 3-5 questions to ask the interviewer
- Avoid salary expectation
Resources: https://careercenter.tamu.edu/Documents/Interviewing/InterviewPrepQuestions
- Job search ethics
- Do not lie—this is the best policy!
- Be sincere
- Fulfill commitments
- Communicate
Course Materials
Summary
Making a good impression during an interview is an important skill that is essential to landing a job. This module helped prepare students with the core skills and tips to master before an interview. Students learned the types of interviews, what to do on the day of an interview, and the ethics of interviewing. Interviewing can be intimidating, however, by equipping students with interview skills will greatly increase their confidence on the day of an interview.
Post-Module Reflection Question
- What three interview styles are you most familiar with? Which styles are you most likely to see in your field?
- How can you most be prepared for your next interview?
- Based on current interview techniques used, what are three things you can improve on?