Prepare for Interviews
Ace the Interview
Job interviews can vary based on the company, but don't worry there are some straightforward steps to help you prepare and perform your best! These tips work for any job whether it's becoming a leader, joining a special group, getting a scholarship or continuing your education.
View Interview Guide (PDF)
Preparing for Your Interview
Know Your Audience
- Connect your academic background, life and work experiences to relate to the role.
- Highlight your qualifications and how they align with the job requirements.
- Emphasize your uniqueness and how it matches with the opportunity.
During Your Interview
Use the STAR Method
- This technique provides a framework for your stories and shows how you have handled past situations. This acronym stands for Situation, Task, Action and Result.
- This can also provide insight into what attitude you can provide in a workplace environment.
Demonstrate Non-Verbal Behaviors
- Smile, make eye contact and maintain a good posture to demonstrate an attentive attitude.
- Minimize distracting behaviors, such as fidgeting or overuse of filler words such as "um, like and you know."
Ask Clarifying Questions
- An interview is a two-way street that allows you to learn more about the company. A good way to retain information is to take notes during your interview.
- OSU Career Services offers the option to purchase $10 padfolios by bursar charge at our central office in 360 Student Union.
After Your Interview
Follow Up With the Employer
- A follow-up thank you letter or email is a professional way to show your gratitude
for the potential employer's time.
- OSU Career Services offers free thank you cards at our central office in 360 Student Union.
- This is a great way to express your interest in the position, as well as use the notes from an interview to make the card personal to the interviewer.
Dive Deeper With Interview Prep
You also have access to Interview Prep, a site that allows you to practice your interview skills via video and review a library of industry-specific questions.
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