CMU Career Guide Central Michigan University Career Guide | Page 30

INTERVIEW PREP
RESEARCH THE ORGANIZATION AND INDUSTRY

Your knowledge of the employer and industry should be evident in your responses to interview questions, as
well as your questions for the interviewers. When you demonstrate this knowledge, you also express your
sincere interest in the position.

IDENTIFY YOUR TOP QUALIFICATIONS

Create a concise, memorable summary (commonly referred to as an elevator pitch) for introducing yourself
to the interviewers. Highlight your most relevant experience, accomplishments, abilities, and future goals that
relate to the position. You can use this introduction in response to the prompt, “Tell me about yourself.” If you
need help verbalizing how your skills and experiences match the job posting requirements, refer to page 33
and schedule an appointment with a career coach by calling [phone].

SELECT YOUR INTERVIEW ATTIRE

Make a good first impression! Refer to pages 34-35 for a guide to appropriate and professional attire. If you
are in need of interview attire, we encourage you to apply for professional clothing through First Impressions.
Visit www.cmich.edu/firstimpressions for more details.

SCHEDULE A MOCK INTERVIEW

The best way to prepare for an interview is to actually do it! Through our Mock Interview Program, we will
simulate an interview for you to strengthen your interviewing skills. Sign up for a Mock Interview by logging
into Handshake at www.careers.cmich.edu. To practice your responses to common interview questions, see
page 32. For additional practice, consider visiting Ready, Prep, Interview at www.readyprepinterview.com.

PREPARE QUESTIONS FOR THE INTERVIEWERS

Interviewers expect you to ask questions. Asking questions is another way to express your genuine interest
in the position and organization. Refer to page 32 for sample questions to ask during the interview process.
Keep in mind that you will likely develop additional questions on-the-spot based on what transpired during the
interview.

BRING YOUR REFERENCE LIST

References are typically requested at the conclusion of the interview. Refer to page 23 for a sample reference
list. Make sure to bring a copy with you to your interview and notify your references that you have an
upcoming interview. They may be receiving a call from the hiring manager soon!

PLAN AHEAD

An important step in the interview process is following-up with the employer. Request each interviewer’s
business card at the conclusion of the interview, and send each of them a thank you note. Refer to page 36 for
a guide on how to write them.

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