Securing the Interview
What resources can you use to find an internship?
LinkedIn and/or Handshake
What should you research before the interview?
Information on the company, the role, employees, and interviewers
How early should you arrive to an in-person interview? Virtual?
In-Person: 10-15 minutes
Virtual: At least have the meeting platform pulled up 15 minutes before
Know the name of your interviewer? Consider doing this.
Stalk their LinkedIn
How long can you think before answering a question?
Generally 30 seconds-1 minute
How long should your resume be?
1 Page
Consider doing this task to avoid getting lost on interview day.
Scope out the location
Don’t forget to do this during phone interviews.
Smile, maintain body language, etc.
Didn’t get the role; what should you do?
Ask the interviewer for feedback, and if you really want to work there, stay in touch!
What kind of career fairs are offered through the CoB and the University?
Accounting, Marketing/Sales, Supply Chain, Engineering, General
When should you (ideally) apply for internships?
1-2 semesters ahead of when you plan to intern
What resource does Career Services offer for those with upcoming interviews?
Mock Interviews
You are asked a question about a previous role that was a negative experience. What do you do?
Do not be negative! Find a way to spin the situation positively.
What should you do following an interview?
Send a thank-you note or email
Who's LinkedIn page and resume did we review?
John Pork
Name three things to leave OFF your resume.
- A photo
- Full street address
- Highschool, once past freshman year
- Pronouns like "I"
This closet helps you look your best for interviews; what is it, and where can it be found?
The Career Closet in the Student Union, Room 211
You’re asked a technical question you do not know the answer to? What do you do?
Be honest that you do not know, but explain your thought process and other possible solutions
Name 3 rules for writing a professional email.
Short and clear subject line.
- Formal, polite tone.
- State clear purpose in the first few sentences.
- Add signature
- Sign off professionally with "Best," or "Thank you," and not "Thanks lol."
What are some ways to job search without job sites?
Networking events, cold calls, coffee chats
What’s a “coffee chat,” why should you do one before applying, and why is it important?
It’s an informal 15–30 minute conversation with someone at a company you’re interested in. You learn about the role and culture, and you build a connection who might refer you or flag your application.
What question answering method should you practice?
STAR;
Situation, Task, Action, Result
What is a HireVue interview, and name 2 ways to prepare for one.
It’s a recorded video interview where you answer preset questions on camera with no live interviewer. Ways to prepare include:
Test your camera lighting and audio ahead of time.
Practice timed answers using STAR.
Research potential questions they may ask.
Have a good place to take it.
How should you answer “What’s your biggest weakness?”
Name a real but non-critical weakness, then explain what you’re actively doing to improve it. Or spin it into a positive. Don’t say “I’m a perfectionist” or “I work too hard,” and don’t name a weakness that’s core to the job.
Name 5 things every LinkedIn profile should have at minimum.
A quality headshot, appropriate banner, custom profile URL, About section, and an Education & work experience section.