Interview do's and dont's
Research the job and company
"The Interview"
"Helpful tips" by w. dean lee
Helpful tips for the interview
10 reasons for rejection
20 commonly asked interview questions
Questions you should ask
A note on ethics

Do Your Research!

Research the job and company

  • Check out their website, it's so easy!
  • Research literature and annual reports. See Networking for ideas.
  • Determine whether this is a firm you want to work for. Are the salaries and benefits appealing? Does it have solid growth plans?
  • Develop a personal understanding of the company and industry to sell yourself as a prospective employee. Learn what is unique about a company compared to other firms in the industry. Compare the company's plans and programs to others in the same industry.
  • Contact alumni working for the company to get several perspectives of the company, including information about what it takes to get hired, the company atmosphere (easy-going, driven, etc.), and what is involved in the position you are seeking.
  • Know Yourself and Your Qualifications

    Everything you've done helps develop abilities that are transferable to other situations. Don't undervalue work experience, especially mission experience. Take time to identify your skills and strengths. See Self-Assessment for ideas. The following method is an example:
    • Action: Skills/Strengths Developed
    • Work many hours: Dedication, high energy level, and strong work ethic
    • Teach contacts: Interpersonal, planning, and communication skills
    • Train other missionaries: Leadership, communication, and time management skills
    • Learn a second language: Learn quickly, perseverance, adaptability

Once you have identified your skills and strengths, choose from your list those which qualify you for the position you are seeking. Focus on what you can do for the employer. Be creative. Write narratives about your accomplishments to practice articulating your experience.

Practice, Practice, Practice

  • Review your resume and be ready to expand any part of it in detail. Also take note of things which are not on your resume which may be important to bring up during the interview to show why you are qualified for a specific position.
  • Prepare questions about the company that include what your responsibilities, opportunities, and challenges will be. These questions can also be a way of sharing ideas or solutions to problems you may have about issues you discovered during your company research. Refer to the end of this section for lists of questions you may be asked and suggestions for questions you might ask.
  • Take advantage of mock-interview opportunities. Career Services offers mock interviews that are video-taped to allow you to review and critique your performance. This kind of practice is critical to improve your performance.
  • Watch one of the interview panel videos where students discuss their experiences in the interview process. Learn what worked and what to avoid from people who have already been through it. These resources are available in the Career Counseling Center.
  • Check out the Vassel Interview Video Tapes from Career Services and practice a mock interview at your home.