1. Why Interviewing Skills Matter

First impressions are everything. Interviews allow employers to understand your strengths beyond the resume while helping you decide whether the company aligns with your goals.

Employers want to know three things: Can you do the job? Will you enjoy the job? and Are you someone they can work with?

2. Types of Interviews

• Phone Screening: Quick qualification check before deeper rounds.
• Virtual Interview: Zoom/Teams format for remote or first-round evaluations.
• Panel Interview: Multiple interviewers; maintain eye contact with all.
• Group Interview: Multiple candidates assessed together.
• Serial Interview: Back-to-back meetings with different team members.
• Meal Interview: Tests etiquette and social professionalism.
• Case Interview: Problem-solving scenarios common in consulting fields.

3. Preparation Checklist

• Research the employer (mission, values, recent updates).
• Study the job posting and prepare STAR/CAR examples.
• Plan logistics — test route, parking, and arrival time.
• Bring resume copies, references, and a pen.
• Eat something light to reduce stress (bananas help calm nerves).

4. Behavioral Interviewing (CAR / STAR Method)

C – Context: What was happening?

A – Action: What did YOU do?

R – Result: What happened because of your actions?

💡 Add a “T” for Transferable Skills to show how the experience connects to the new role.

5. Common Interview Questions

• "Tell me about yourself" → Use PAWS (Personal, Academic, Work, Skills)
• "Greatest strength?" → Choose one relevant to the job and provide proof.
• "Why work here?" → Mention culture, mission, or projects.
• "Do you have questions for us?" → Always ask about culture, growth, or expectations.

6. Tricky Questions & How to Handle Them

• Weakness: Pick something real but fixable; show improvement.
• Illegal questions: Redirect to job-related topics.
• Failure: Be honest, show growth and accountability.
• Salary expectations: Delay until after receiving an offer.

7. Body Language & Communication

• Sit up, relax shoulders, lean slightly forward.
• Nod and smile to show engagement.
• Give a firm handshake.
• Speak clearly; avoid filler words.
• Stay positive and avoid negativity about past jobs.

8. Virtual Interview Tips

• Use natural light or a ring light.
• Keep your background clean and quiet.
• Look into the camera for eye contact.
• Test your technology the day before.

9. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Arriving too early or too late.
• Using filler words or rambling.
• Dressing too casually.
• Checking your phone.
• Exaggerating skills.

10. After the Interview

Send a personalized thank-you email within 24 hours.

Reference something from the conversation to show you were listening.

Follow up politely if you haven’t heard back within 7–10 days.