Tips for Landing an Interview

Make sure to smile/look sincere

A first impression is an only impression and thus it is important to give off a pleasant, nervous-free facade that can break the potential tension in the room.

Be prepared

Anticipate uncalled for traffic or other potential difficulties and make sure to give yourself time to arrive early to an interview location. Likewise, have extra CV/resumes on hand and any other supplemental materials.

Be prepared for the conversation

Know how to handle yourself during the interview- be ready for tough questions, addressing your weaknesses, reasons for any discrepancies on your application or resume, and how to really sell yourself to strangers. Similarly, show that you’ve done your research on the company/group and come prepared with tough questions of your own so that the interviewers see your dedication shine through.

Be Honest

Be straightforward with your previous education/work history because you have listed references that they could contact to verify your statements. Also, if you’ve mentioned something that could be confusing, be upfront about it and clarify any miscommunication. Interviewers would rather hire someone who is upfront with their mistakes or imperfections rather than someone who looks good on paper but doesn’t have any integrity.

Follow-up & be gracious

Be sure to follow up post-interview to thank the individual(s) for their time and the opportunity. If if you haven’t landed the job/internship, it’s a great way to leave a lasting impression with people in your field of interest because they may remember your enthusiasm and graciousness for something in the future.