Department of Electrical and Computer EngineeringInternship Program

Preparing for an Interview

WHAT TO WEAR TO AN INTERVIEW

Appropriate attire is a must!

Knowing proper job interview etiquette is an integral part of the interview process. The first impression does matter. Demonstrate to the employer that you have put effort in your appearance. How you greet the interviewer, what you bring to a job interview, and how you communicate can make a difference in the success of the interview.

DRESS APPROPRIATELYIt is better to overdress than under dress. For an interview you should dress above the norm of your everyday attire.

The first impression potential employers will have of you will be based on how you look and what you are wearing. This is why it’s important to dress professionally for a job interview even when the work environment is a casual one.

The candidate that takes the time and effort to properly attire him/herself is going to make a much better impression than the candidate dressed in jeans and a T-shirt.Project confidence and present yourself with a positive and welcoming attitude.

Be on time! Plan your route and give yourself plenty of time to mentally prepare for your interview.

The handshake plays an important role in an employer’s first impression of you.

From the moment you walk into the interview room your behaviour is being carefully observed. The interviewer will start to form a picture of you.

BEFORE THE INTERVIEW

• Highlight your strengths. Your confidence increases when you know what you can contribute to the organization and what you want to gain from the job. You can demonstrate this by highlighting your track record for achieving results. For example if you were a Research Assistant for a Professor you can highlight some of your achievements. The interviewer wants to know how your skills, knowledge and experience can match the needs of the position? and also how well you communicate.

CONFIDENCE

• Interviews are designed to give YOU the chance to promote yourself.

• Employers are looking to YOU to convince them that YOU are a perfect fit for the position. You do this by projecting confidence and providing answers to their questions that will demonstrate your knowledge and skills.

KNOW THE ORGANIZATION

• Learn all you can about the organization and the position you're interviewing for. Knowing this information shows you're motivated and interested in the company. For example visit the organization’s website, this way you can get an idea of how it operates and how a company views its employees.

KNOW THE POSTING

• Be sure you know what the position requires• Review the job posting.• Ask the department for a job description.• Find out more about the job from a former or

current intern at the company.• Talk to someone in your network who does similar

work.

PRACTICE

• Practice what you're going to say and how you are going to say it, this will help you communicate clearly and confidently.

• It's best not to memorize questions and answers. Instead, focus on key points that you want the interviewer to know about you.

• It's also important for you to ask relevant questions during the interview. It’s a good idea not to ask questions about salary, vacation or other benefits until after you receive a job offer.

• It’s also a good idea to role-play the interview with a friend.

PARTICIPATION• You will not get a second chance to make a first impression, make the first

one count! • Your appearance, your attitude, your body language—are crucial in how you

present yourself in the interview.• Smile and extend your hand to shake hands with the interviewer when you

meet.• Sit straight with your feet flat on the floor, leaning slightly forward to show

interest.• Interviewers will expect you to look them in the eye with confidence. Make

eye contact. • Watch the interviewer's body language and expressions for feedback on how

you're doing.• Listen closely to the questions so you can answer them accurately.• Be direct. Don't ramble or go off topic.• Take time to think before you respond.• Give all your attention to the interview and the interviewer—this tells the

interviewer you are focused on your commitments.

POSITIVE ATTITUDE

• Most people are nervous before an interview. YOU can choose to be confident and positive even though you might be nervous.

• An interview is a meeting where both parties are meeting to exchange information. The employer wants to find out if you can do the job and if you will be a suitable fit for the position. YOU want to find out if you can contribute your skills and knowledge to the position as well as if you can learn and grow from the internship.

TOP 10 PERSONAL QUALITIES EMPLOYERS SEEK

1. Motivation/initiative/commitment2. Academic achievement/GPA3. Communication skills4. Teamwork skills 5. Technical skills6. Flexibility/adaptability 7. Leadership skills8. Honesty/integrity9. Work ethic10. Professionalism

AFTER THE INTERVIEW Be sure to follow-up with a thank you note that emphasizes two or three reasons why you’re the ideal candidate for the position.