Virtual Career Center

Job Search Strategy: Successful Interviewing In Five Easy Steps

The purpose of interviewing is to screen for qualifications, assess a candidate's motivation, and determine the degree of fit between a candidate and the organization.

Prepare
Understand the position and the necessary requirements. Do research on the organization, its history and current activities. Plan ahead and cover all the details including travel plans and dry-cleaning your suit.

Practice
Be able to articulate your skills and experiences related to the position's requirements. Be ready to elaborate on experiences and accomplishments that are listed in your resume.

Interview
Answer the questions that are asked, and ask relevant questions of the interviewer(s). Leave with a business card and the next steps in hand.

Follow Up
Send a thank you note to the interviewer(s). Follow up as required.

Start Over
Your first interview is rarely your last. Practice and prepare for the next one.

Sample Interview Questions:

• What kind of experience do you have?
• Of all the work you have done, where have you been most successful?
• What aspects of your current job do you like least? Most?
• What are you looking for in your next job?
• Tell me about yourself.
• Where do you see yourself in five years?
• Why should I hire you?
• Describe your work style.
• What salary would you like to make?
• Tell me about a time when you dealt with an angry colleague/customer.

These tips, recommendations and resources can be enhanced through career advising sessions and professional development workshops.

• 101 Great Answers to the Toughest Interview Questions by Ronald W. Fry
  
  
• Power Interviews: Job Winning Tactics From Fortune 500 Recruiters by Neil Yeager & Lee Hough
  
  
• Dynamite Answers to Interview Questions by Caryl Rae Krannich & Ronald L. Krannich
  
  

• The Job Hunter's Bible: What Color Is Your Parachute? — Richard Bolles presents links to resume, cover letter, networking and research sites, as well as advice on expectations and reality.
  www.jobhuntersbible.com
  
  
• The Riley Guide — guidance from preparation to conclusion of your job search, with links to hundreds of sites for more help.
  www.rileyguide.com

Can't find the resources you are looking for? Have questions about the Alumni Career Center services? University of Illinois alumni can ask our career experts for help with job searching and career questions.