Interview Guide

Download the Interview Guide

The interview is the single most important step in the job search process, therefore, thorough preparation is essential. The purpose of the job interview is to determine whether you are right for the job and whether the job is right for you. The interview also provides you with an opportunity to ask questions about the organization/company and the position.

Your ability to answer questions with relevant detail and in a conversational manner is key in an interview. Often it is the person most skilled at interviewing, not the most qualified person, who gets the job. The interview is your opportunity to shine, to sell your strengths and to present yourself as a unique candidate for the position. Your role in an interview is to leave a clear and convincing impression of who you are, what you can do to contribute to the organization/company, and why you should be hired for the position instead of another candidate. The interviewer’s role is to determine whether you have the skills, knowledge and personality needed to be an effective member of the organization/company.

Interviewing Goals

Related content

• Interviewing Goals
• Preparing for the Interview
• Step 1: Know Yourself
• Step 2: Do Your Research
• Step 3: Consider Interview Formats
• Step 4: Prepare and Polish
• During the Interview
• Following the Interview
• In Conclusion
• Interview Question Index
• Using Social Media in your Job Search

Upcoming at the SECC

Hone your interview skills by participating in a mock process with a student staff. Sessions are one hour long and booked in advance.