Preparing for Interviews

Preparing for an interview is more than pressing your suit and practicing your interview answers.  Many students forget the most important part of preparation — researching the company.  McCombs School of Business recruiters have indicated that students who know more in depth information about the company are those candidates who obtain second round interview invitations.

Throughout the fall and spring semesters, employers will actively participate in JSG Career Center events and programs. Connect with employers and learn more about the companies and the professional opportunities available to students.

Videos and Presentations

Acing the Interview (PDF)

Dressing for Geo-Success (PDF)

Selling Yourself in an Interview

Job Offer Negotiations for College Grads

Salary Calculator and Career Information

National Association of Colleges & Educators Salary Calculator: Interactive USA Salary Calculator

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook Handbook

JSG Interview Checklist

Prepare for the Interview

Do your Homework

☐ Research the company

☐ Review the job description

☐ Research the expected salary based on your qualifications and education

Prepare to Talk about Yourself

☐ Write down answers to typical interview questions

☐ Determine what questions you will ask the interviewer about the company and job/position

☐ Plan your wardrobe appropriately

Role-Play with a Friend

☐ Walk through typical interview questions and answers in a dress-rehearsal fashion

☐ Practice giving a firm handshake

☐ Anticipate how you will respond to questions that should not be asked in the interview

☐ Have your role-play partner ask questions that you have not rehearsed

☐ Consider using the S.T.A.R. approach in your answers to behavioral questions

Ace the Interview

Use Proper Etiquette

☐ Maintain eye contact with the interviewer

☐ Be aware of your posture and body language

☐ Think a moment before you answer questions

☐ Refrain from making negative comments about previous employers or others

☐ Eliminate fillers like “umm,” “uh,” “you know”

Do Your Best to Impress

☐ Relate your answers to the job description and use “BUZZ” words and phrases related to your field

☐ Ask for a business card so you can follow up with the recruiter

☐ Attend the company’s information session

End the Interview with Style

Thank the Recruiter and Follow-Up

☐ Write and send a thank you note within 24 hours of the interview

☐ Follow-up with the recruiter if you have not heard anything after 2-3 weeks

☐ Reflect on things you think went well or went poorly in the interview to improve for the next one