Tips for a Successful Interview

Every time you land an interview, you should give yourself a pat on the back. Being invited for an interview is a good indication that people are not only looking at your résumé, but considering you as a qualified candidate for a position. The rest is up to you. An interview is essentially what makes or breaks a deal and helps you land the position you really want. The interview essentially helps an employer identify if you are the right candidate for the job and whether or not you would be a good fit with the organization. Below are some questions and thoughts that go through the minds of employers when they are interviewing candidates for positions.

  • Do I like this individual?
  • Can I see this person being part of our organization?
  • Can this person really do the job without much hand-holding?
  • Can I see myself working effectively with this person?
  • How will this individual work with other staff members?
  • Can I really trust this person with this position?
  • Does this person seem enthusiastic about working with us?
  • Is this person open and willing to learn?

Interviews are about finding the right fit, both for the organization and for you. Think of an interview as your opportunity to market yourself as the best candidate for the position. An interview is your time to shine and make a good first impression. In addition, think of an interview as the perfect opportunity for you to interview the organization to see if it will be a good fit for you.

Interviewing in itself is a skill and like any skill practice makes perfect. Consider the following tips and suggestions as you prepare for an interview.

First, become familiar with the different types of interviews. You can visit the Career Center website at www.fullerton.edu/career and utilize the library and online resources such as InterviewStream and Ferguson's Career Guidance database for additional information on interviewing tips, types of interviews, and to begin practicing your interviewing skills.

Types of Interviews

  • Phone
  • In Person
  • Panel
  • Lunch or Dinner
  • All Day Interviews
  • Group Interviews
  • On-Campus Interviews
  • Online Interviews
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