The interview is one of the most important parts of the hiring process. It's your opportunity to demonstrate your skills, communicate your experiences, and show employers why you're the best candidate for the position. The resources below will help you prepare for a successful interview, but nothing replaces practicing with a Career Coach. Schedule a one-on-one mock interview, schedule an a appointment with a Career Coach to build confidence, receive personalized feedback, and improve your interview skills. 

Practice Checklist:  

  • Review your resume 
  • Practice answers out loud 
  • Prepare 3–5 questions 
  • Plan your outfit 

Tip: Don't memorize answers. Practice having a conversation. 

How do I dress for my Interview?

  • Your appearance is an important part of making a strong first impression. The right outfit can help you feel confident, comfortable, and prepared for your interview.
  • Not every workplace has the same expectations, so it’s important to dress appropriately for the employer, industry, and position. 
  • Find out how to "Dress to Impress" at the Bobcat Career Closet.

In Person Interview  

  • Before the Interview: Arrive 5–10 minutes early, greet everyone professionally, and remember your interview begins the moment you arrive. 
  • During the Interview: Good body language, smile, maintain eye contact, sit up straight, listen carefully, and speak clearly, avoid fidgeting, interrupting, or checking your phone. 

Online Interview  

  • Before the Interview: Test your camera, microphone, speakers, and internet connection before the interview. Choose a quiet, well-lit location with a clean, professional background, and log in 5–10 minutes early. Dress professionally, silence your phone and notifications, and have your resume, the job description, and a notebook nearby. 
  • During the Interview: Maintain good posture, smile, look into the camera to simulate eye contact, and speak clearly at a steady pace. Listen carefully, avoid interrupting, and keep distractions to a minimum by closing unnecessary tabs and applications. Mute yourself when appropriate, avoid checking your phone or multitasking, and stay engaged throughout the conversation. 

Use the STAR Method 

  • Situation: What happened? 
  • Task: What needed to be done? 
  • Action: What did you do? 
  • Result: What happened and what did you learn? 

Common Questions 

  • Tell me about yourself. 
  •  Why do you want this role?   
  • What are your strengths? 
  •  Challenge you overcame. 
  • Mistake you have learned from.

Ask questions after interview is completed  

  • What does success look like?  
  • What do you enjoy about working here? 
  •  What would my first 90 days look like? 

Finish Strong 

  • Send a thank-you email within 24 hours. If you haven't heard back after about a week, politely Follow up.
  • Every interview is an opportunity to learn and improve. 

Need More Practice? 

Career Coach

For everything beyond the document including interview prep, career exploration, and personalized mentorship our career coaches are here for you. We provide the holistic support you need to succeed.

AI Career Coach 

Build your confidence through a personalized mock interview. Answer questions one at a time, receive constructive feedback, and strengthen your responses before the real interview. AI is vital tool but not a replacement, always meet with a career coach for the best feedback. 

Downloadable Guide

Download the Interview Essential guide if you'd like to keep it.