Finding a job always comes down to it, so how do you impress your future boss?
CU’s Director of Career Services, Lisa Severy, narrows down the basics on being interviewed and what it takes to seal the deal.
Before an interview, it is always good to be prepared. Severy said this means doing research on the place in which you have an interview so you understand as much as you can about the industry, company and position for which you are applying.
“Also, do your homework by knowing where the interview is and how to get there so that you make a good impression by showing up a few minutes early rather than a few minutes late,” Severy said.
Part of preparation is to dress the part — Severy’s motto: Better to be overdressed than underdressed.
In terms of answering questions, it is important to understand what it is you are being asked and why.
Severy said most interviewers want to know three things:
1. Are you someone with whom the person wants to work?
2. Are you someone who is both motivated and enthusiastic, and can think on your feet?
3. Are you someone who knows what they are getting themselves into?
The key to answering interview questions, she said, is to understand what you are being asked.
“For example, if an interviewer asks you to define success, he or she probably wants to know what you see in yourself, and how you will approach your role in the company,” Severy said.
While being interviewed, it is helpful to really engage yourself in the conversation in order to listen and understand what the interviewer is asking you. If you listen to the questions carefully, you can provide a more concise answer.
Severy said the most important question in an interview is, “What questions do you have for us?” The only wrong answer to this question is, “Nothing.”
This question, normally asked towards the end of an interview, is a great way to show your interest and motivation. It is a great way to integrate anything you feel you have left out. Also, you get to ask the questions, and thus prove your initiative.
“There is a great list of questions available on the Internet (including CU’s Career Services Web site); you can write them down and bring them with you,” Severy said.
Contact Campus Press Staff Writer Emily Sturges at Emily.Sturges@Colorado.edu.
