Interview Steps

Before the Interview

• Prepare: Research and learn about the job field, the organization, and review the job description thoroughly. Anything in the job description or your application materials are fair game for interview questions.
• Practice: Write out answers to common questions and rehearse by yourself, with friends, or with an HFA career advisor. Be ready for the most common opening question, "So tell me about yourself."
• Select what you plan to wear: Find out what the everyday dress at that workplace is beforehand. Select an outfit that works for that company, while also making you feel comfortable and confident. 
  • When in doubt, it's usually better to overdress than underdress.
  • You can add new items to your closet for free using our UMass Professional Wardrobe Closet. For more dress inspiration, access The Isenberg Guide: Dressing for Success.

Day of the Interview

• What to bring: Have a copy of your resume, a list of your references, and a list of questions for the employers. 
  • Place all of your documents and a pen in a portfolio or folder. Put your cell phone on Do Not Disturb before you enter the interview room.
• Arrive early: Arrive 5-15 minutes before the scheduled meeting time. Know the directions to the interview location and plan your commute with time to spare. 
  • It sometimes helps to drive the route before the day of your interview to make sure you know where you are going. 
  • Call to reschedule if you have an emergency or get sick. 
• If the interview is via Zoom: Make sure you have a quiet space for your meeting and a solid internet connection. Choose a neutral background and make sure your camera view does not include any items you’d prefer to stay hidden.
  • Consider placing a do not disturb sign on your door, and make sure you are completely ready 10 minutes before the interview is supposed to start. Log in no more than 1 minute early (sometimes employers are using the room for another meeting).

After the Interview

Send a thank you email within 24 hours of your interview. This can set you apart from equally qualified candidates.

• Be brief. A few paragraphs at most.
• Use formal language. Avoid slang or casual phrases.
• Be error-free and watch out for grammar and spelling, especially people’s names and titles.
• Customize your email to the interview(er) and reference something from your conversation that was particularly helpful, meaningful, or interesting. 
  • You can also use the email as an opportunity to add anything you missed during the interview, such as an important skill or quality you forgot to mention.