1. Be yourself. Authenticity matters, but don't “wing it.” Show the best version of yourself through preparation.
2. Research the position. Review the job description and identify key skills. Prepare examples that demonstrate you have them.
3. Research the organization. Understand their mission, values, products/services, and recent news. Be ready to answer "Why do you want to work here?" with specifics.
4. Master common questions. Prepare answers for:

• Tell me about yourself.
• Why this position?
• Your strengths and weaknesses.
• Short- and long-term goals.
• Examples of key skills

1. Use specific examples. Avoid vague answers. Create 1-2 minute SAR stories (Situation, Action, Result) to illustrate your skills.

2. Ask thoughtful questions. Prepare questions based on your research and what comes up during the interview.

3. Practice. Rehears your answers before the interview. Don't use real interviews as practice.

4. Dress professionally. For most interviews, a business suit and dress shoes are appropriate.

5. Send a thank you. Email is fine but handwritten notes stand out. Send it within 24 hours.

Professionalism

• Willing to start at bottom
• On time to interview
• Internship experience
• Neat application form
• Company or school knowledge
• World work experience
• Vocational and educational goals
• Remembers to thank interviewer
• Awareness of employer
• Academic background
• Responds directly to questions
• Abilities, skills and interests
• Career goals
• Prompt and neat
• Professional knowledge and perspective
• Not salary-focused
• Career purpose
• Work or student teaching experience
• Knowledgeable about field
• Educational achievements
• Career planning
• Interested in school/organization
• Grade point average

Personality and Physical Traits

• Physical, mental and social maturity
• Loyalty
• Integrity
• Flexibility
• Creativity
• Sincerity
• Appreciation
• Articulation and English command
• Self-confidence
• Poise
• Tact
• Courteousness
• Motivation
• Voice
• Personal appearance
• Good eye contact
• Values
• Enthusiasm
• Vitality
• Decisive
• Sense of humor
• Warmth
• Positive attitude
• Relaxed
• Good listener
• Fluency of expression
• Happy demeanor
• Level of anxiety
• Professional attitude
• Grooming
• Firm handshake
• Smile

Social Skills

• Wide outside interests
• Hobbies
• Social adjustment
• Ability to relate to others
• Leadership ability or potential
• Knowledge of current events

What to Wear

In today's competitive job market, first impressions matter. Employers often interview many candidates for a single position, so grooming, body language, and attire play a big role.

Choose clothing that helps the interviewer focus on your skills, not your style. Aim for a professional, polished look from head to toe.

Do you have a need for clothes, but can't afford them? Visit the Husky Clothing Closet in Miller Center 135 (with the Huskies Food Pantry)!

General guidelines

For Men:

• Wear a suit or dress pants with a button-up shirt and tie.
• How-to-tie-a-tie video.

For Women:

• Stick to basics for a polished look.
• Tops: Choose sleeves and higher necklines; avoid scoop or V-neck.
• Bottoms: Dress pants or skirts just above or below the knee.
• Dresses: Ensure modest length.

In some cultures, women may dress more traditionally. It's important to honor these values while maintaining a clean, professional look.

• Tops: If covering is customary, choose blouses with high necklines or collared shirts, paired with a suit jacket.
• Bottoms: If pants are not recommended, opt for floor-length skirts or dresses.
• Hijab/Headscarf: Keep colors neutral and patterns minimal or none.

Colors

• Choose solids over patterns. Solids are less distracting. Small patterns (like thin pinstripes) are okay if they look solid from a distance.
• Choose neutral over bright. Navy, gray, black and brown are the best for a job interview. White is also an excellent color for a blouse or button-down shirt.

Color meanings:

• Tan: Neutral and calming.
• Blue: Conveys trust and confidence; navy adds authority.
• Gray: Sophisticated and neutral; powerful but not domineering.
• Black: Best for conservative or executive roles; can feel too formal in casual settings.
• Red: Energy and passion; use sparingly (tie or scarf) for leadership roles.
• White: Crisp and clean; great for shirts and blouses.
• Pop of color: Add one subtle accent; avoid making it dominant.

Footwear

• Men: Wear dark, neutral dress shoes that match your belt.
• Women: Choose modest, closed-toe shoes with a low heel in a neutral color.

Accessories

• Keep accessories minimal and professional.
• Add subtle flair with a pocket square, necklace or bracelet.
• Limit jewelry to one or two pieces.
• Avoid bulky or flashy items that distract from your outfit.

Below are links to some great resources for those with Asperger's or Autism. If you have further questions on interviewing tips, contact our office or Student Accessibility Services.

• Interview Tips & Decoding the Questions: A Guide to Job Interviews for Students with Asperger’s and ASD
• Interviewing Tips for Applicants with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
• Supporting Autistic Students Success Initiative (SASSI)
• The Job Interview Employment Tool Kit

Before the Interview:

First impressions matter. In American culture, punctuality, appearance, and conversation quality are key to a successful interview.

Respect Time 

• Arrive 10-15 minutes early, prepared to wait.
• Being early shows respect for the interviewer's schedule.

Eliminate distractions

• Silence and put away your phone.
• This nonverbal gesture shows focus and respect.

Personal Appearance

• Offer a firm handshake and a friendly smile.
• Dress professionally; ensure neat hair, fresh breath, and good hygiene.
• These details signal confidence and competence to U.S. employers.

Quality of Conversation

• Small talk helps build rapport.
  • Let the interviewer lead if they start.
  • Show active listening through eye contact and responses.
  • Stick to pleasant, general topics - avoid personal matters, politics, religion, age, or nationality.
• Keep small talk brief and respectful of time.

During the Interview:

Show your knowledge and abilities through examples while remaining relaxed and confident. Your goal is to demonstrate the value you bring to the team and how you can contribute to the organization.

• Draw on Past Experiences
  • Use examples from your background to illustrate skills and achievements.
  • Review the job description to understand what the employer values and prepare relevant stories.
• Manage Your Time
  • Keep answers clear and concise.
  • Some questions require longer responses, but avoid unnecessary details - focus on relevance.
• Show the Right Attitude
  • Confidence, competence, assertiveness, and a pleasant demeanor are highly valued.
  • Stay calm and professional throughout the conversation.
• Ask Questions 
  • When the interview wraps up, you'll likely be asked if you have questions. Use this opportunity wisely.
  • Do's:
    • Ask specific questions about the role.
    • Inquire about the interviewer's experience with the company.
    • Pose one or two thoughtful questions that show genuine interest in the organization.
  • Don'ts:
    • Avoid questions you could answer with research.
    • Don't ask self-serving questions (e.g., salary or perks too early).
    • Limit the number of questions - respect their time.

After the Interview

Send a thank you note promptly. This shows appreciation for the interviewer's time and reinforces your interest in the position.

• Timing: Send within 24-48 hours of the interview.
• Tone: Be polite, professional and gracious.
• Content: Express thanks, reference something specific from the conversation, and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role.

Email is perfectly acceptable and ensures quick delivery, but a handwritten note can make you stand out.

Know Your Rights as an International Student

In the U.S., employers must follow strict guidelines during interviews. Some questions are illegal, while others are legal and job-related.

Illegal Questions (Do NOT have to answer):

• Are you a U.S. citizen?
• Where were you born?
• What’s your ethnic background?
• Can you send your birth certificate?
• How did you learn Spanish?
• Are your parents from the US?

Legal Questions (Expect to answer):

• Are you legally allowed to work in the US?
• Will you need visa sponsorship now or in the future?
• Can you read, write, and speak English?
• Do you have any other names?
• What education do you have?
• What experience qualifies you for this job?
• Do you have licenses or certifications for this job?

Tips for International Students:

• Be prepared to explain your work authorization and visa process clearly.
• If asked an illegal question, stay pleasant and redirect to your qualifications.
• Learn more:
  • Illegal Interview Questions
  • Illegal Interview Questions an Employer Cannot Ask

• Prepare your materials. Have your résumé and cover letter ready.
• Do your homework. Research the employer and the role. Know the salary range and align your goals with theirs. Learn the organization's background and the interviewer's name.
• Develop your agenda. List your skills, strengths, and weaknesses.
• Get ready. Be well-rested and think positively. Dress professionally - clean, neat, and tasteful from head to toe.
• Manage nervousness. It's normal to feel nervous. Dry your hands or brow before meeting the interviewer.
• Be yourself. The interviewer wants to know you - not hear a memorized speech.
• Be on time. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. Call if you'll be delayed.
• Use campus resources. Your Career Center can help you practice and prepare for interviews.

First Impressions

• The first three minutes matter - smile, greet by name, and follow the interviewer's lead.
• Offer a firm handshake if initiated; wait to be seated.
• No gum or smoking. 

Body Language

• Sit upright, lean slightly forward, and maintain natural eye contact.
• Keep  your hands still in your lap; look alert and engaged.

Answering Questions

• Be clear, concise, and honest - avoid exaggeration.
• Use short SAR stories (Situation-Action-Result).
• Prepare for common questions:
  • Tell me about yourself.
  • Why are you interested in this organization?
  • What can we do for you?

Personal & Tough Questions

• Motivation, 10-year goals, salary expectations: show ambition and realistic planning.
• If fired: be frank, share lessons learned.
• Reasons for leaving: return to school, better pay, more responsibility.

Show Interest

• Ask thoughtful questions about the company and opportunities - not security.
• Have two to three reasons why you want to work there.

Stay Positive

• If the interview feels discouraging, maintain confidence - sometimes it's a test.
• Avoid criticizing former employers or professors.

Salary

• Emphasize interest in proving yourself over a specific salary.
• Research typical salary ranges beforehand.

Closing Strong

• Most interviews last 30-60 minutes - watch for cues it's ending.
• Summarize your interest and strengths.
• Thank the interviewer sincerely; leave with confidence.
• Example: "If you have any other questions or need anything from me, please reach out. Thank you for your time."

Check out this article on The Ultimate Guide to Acing Your Video Interview or How to Ace a Video Interview.

Phone and video interviews are common screening tools and may be your first (or only) chance to make a great impression. Treat them as serious as an in-person interview.

Video Interview Tips

• Choose a plain background; remove distractions.
• Ensure good lighting - not too bright or dark.
• Test your equipment and internet connection ahead of time.
• Do a practice run with a friend.
• Dress professionally and act as you would in person.
• Smile and maintain eye contact by looking at the camera.

Phone Interview Tips

• Record a professional voicemail; teach others who answer your phone to respond politely.
• Prepare like an in-person interview; research the company and review your résumé.
• Be ready for common questions:
  • Tell me about yourself.
  • Why are you interested in this position?
  • What do you know about our company?
  • What are your strengths?
  • Do you have any questions for us?
• Create a quiet environment:
  • Post a "Do Not Disturb" sign
  • Turn off TV and other devices
  • Fully charge your phone
• Keep essentials handy: résumé, company info, pen and paper.
• Stand up (but don't pace) for better voice projection.
• Smile - you'll sound friendlier.
• Speak clearly and calmly; match the interviewer's pace.
• Ask about next steps before ending.
• Follow up with a thank-you email.

Most interviews follow a simple question-and-answer format, but expect a few surprises. When answering, be sincere, honest, and concise. Common "curveball" questions include:

• What can I do for you?
• Why are you interested in working for us?
• Tell me about yourself.

Review these sites to help you prepare:

• Job Interview Questions
• How to Answer Tough Job Interview Questions
• 12 Tough Interview Questions and Answers

Below are 25 frequently asked questions to help you prepare:

Goals & Career Planning

• What are your short- and long-term career goals, and how are you preparing to achieve them?
• Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?
• Why did you choose this career path?
• How do you plan to achieve your career objective?
• What motivates you to put forth your best effort?

Self-Assessment

• What are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?
• How would you describe yourself? How would others describe you?
• Why should we hire you?
• How do you define and measure success?
• What qualities do you think make someone successful in this role?

Education & Preparation

• How has your college experience prepared you for this career?
• What subjects did you enjoy most and least? Why?
• Do you have plans for continued study or an advanced degree?
• What have you learned from extracurricular activities?

Work Preferences & Fit

• What kind of work environment do you prefer?
• How do you handle pressure or stressful situations?
• Describe your ideal job after graduation.
• Why are you interested in this organization?
• What do you know about our company?

Experience & Problem-Solving

• What accomplishments are you most proud of?
• Describe a major problem you faced and how you solved it.
• What have you learned from your mistakes?

Logistics & Practical Questions

• Are you willing to relocate or travel?
• What compensation range are you seeking?
• Where do you see yourself within this company in 10 years?

Be ready to discuss your teaching philosophy, classroom management strategies, and commitment to professional growth. These questions help showcase how you support student learning and adapt to diverse educational environments.

• What qualifications and experiences make you a strong candidate for teaching?
• How do you believe children learn best, and how does that influence your teaching style?
• Describe your approach to classroom management and handling disruptive behavior.
• What is the most effective teaching method you've used, and why?
• How do you motivate reluctant learners or students with diverse needs?
• How would you support multiculturalism and inclusion in your classroom?
• Tell me about your favorite lesson to teach and why it was successful.
• What steps do you take to stay current in education and improve your practice?
• What is your greatest strength as a teacher, and how does it impact student learning?
• Describe the most rewarding experience you've had in the classroom.

Interviews aren't just about the employer evaluating you - they're also your chance to assess whether the role and workplace align with your goals. Prepare questions that show genuine interest and help you understand the position, team, and company culture. Avoid asking basic questions you could answer through research. Instead, focus on specifics that matter to you.

Examples

1. Can you walk me through the main responsibilities of this role?
2. What does a typical day look like in this position?
3. What qualities or skills do you value most in someone successful in this role?
4. What are the biggest challenges someone in this position might face?
5. Who are the key people I would be working with regularly?
6. How would you describe the working relationship with the supervisor for this role?
7. What are the most important outcomes you'd like to see from someone in this position?
8. What are the typical paths for advancement from this role?
9. How does the company support work-life balance?
10. What kind of training or onboarding program does your organization offer?