How To: Nail That Interview

By: Mina Hakimpour

You got an interview, yay! But how do you nail it and leave a lasting impression? 

Here are 4 simple steps to an interview: 

Research

Researching the companies and businesses you have applied for is very important. Knowing who they are, what they value, and how your skills match up with what they are looking for is key to nailing the interview. 

You will want to look into: 

• The job description: Really understand what the job is, what the key skills and qualifications they are looking for are, and what experience you have that you can pull from during the interview 

• The company/business: having questions ready about the company's culture, the room for growth, etc… will make you seem prepared!

Preparation

Speaking of preparation, as I mentioned before, having some questions to ask back will leave a lasting impression and will make you seem more interested and eager to learn!

Remember: it is you interviewing them just as much as it is them interviewing you. 

Some questions to ask: 

• What is the company culture like?

• What are some of your favorite things about the company/your position?

• Is there room for growth within the company? 

• Is there anything I can further clarify about my resume/qualifications? 

The Interview 

Whether in person, over the phone, or Zoom, looking your best will make you feel your best. Now is the time to not only dress up a little but be ready to be your own hype man! Feel good talking about your experience and qualifications. This would also be a great time to pull out your research and relate what they're looking for to you.

Great things to highlight: 

• Any leadership skills you have gained from clubs, jobs, or executive positions 

• Project management, even from a class project or long-term assignment. 

• Any tangible materials related to the job, writing samples, creative deliverables, etc…

• Any verbal communication skills, interpersonal or group - Be specific!

• Etc… 

Waiting Game 

This is the worst step. Waiting to hear back is never fun, but it is a great time to continue your interest and leave an even better impression. Sending a follow-up email never hurts! 

A solid follow-up includes: 

• Subject Line: Interview Follow-Up – [Your Name]

• Greeting, include the person's, make it warm and inviting

• Body: 

• Thank them for their time

• Highlight something they mentioned in the interview about them or the company/business

• Circle back to why you think you would best fit the role - keep it short and sweet

• Call to action: Open yourself up to more communication if need be

• "If you need any more information or materials, please let me know, and I would be happy to send them your way," etc…

• Salutations 

• Have an email signature set up! If you are comfortable, include your full name, email, and phone number.

Remember: Even if the interview doesn't go your way, it's not you. Take a moment to mourn, brush it off, and hit the ground running – you will be extra prepared for your next one. 

Good luck!