{"id":91,"date":"2021-04-12T15:18:58","date_gmt":"2021-04-12T15:18:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/chapter\/interview-strategies\/"},"modified":"2025-07-17T19:29:43","modified_gmt":"2025-07-17T19:29:43","slug":"interview-strategies","status":"publish","type":"chapter","link":"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/chapter\/interview-strategies\/","title":{"raw":"Interview Strategies","rendered":"Interview Strategies"},"content":{"raw":"<div class=\"textbox textbox--learning-objectives\"><header class=\"textbox__header\">\r\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">Learning Objectives<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/header>\r\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\r\n\r\nBy the end of this section, you should be able to:\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>Explain at least three strategies for preparing for an interview.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Explain how to best respond to interview questions.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Identify the required elements of a post-interview thank-you note.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<header><span style=\"text-align: initial; font-size: 1em;\"><strong>[pb_glossary id=\"324\"]Interviewing[\/pb_glossary]<\/strong> is the phase of the job search process where you transition from being a paper applicant to a real, three-dimensional person. You will be evaluated on your verbal communication skills through this face-to-face (or video or phone) interaction. Employers want to see whether you match up to the qualifications described in your [pb_glossary id=\"268\"]<strong>r\u00e9sum\u00e9<\/strong>[\/pb_glossary], and they want to know whether you have good interpersonal communication skills to get a sense of how you would function as part of their team.<\/span><\/header><span class=\"pullquote-left\">\"One important key to success is self-confidence. An important key to self-confidence is preparation.\" (Arthur Ashe)<\/span>Interviews are often intimidating for job seekers who feel the pressure of being evaluated and feel uncomfortable with the [pb_glossary id=\"269\"]<strong>interview<\/strong>[\/pb_glossary] format. While the nervousness may never disappear, effectively preparing for the interview can make you feel more confident. With practice, you must stay in the moment and treat the interview like a conversation.\r\n\r\nThis chapter focuses on general interview preparation. Remember, however, that different disciplines and industries employ distinct interviewing techniques. For instance, the technical interview, also known as \u201ccode day,\u201d has become a standard practice for many computer science-related fields. You should always research standard industry practices, but remember that interviews can be surprising. Some employers try to surprise interviewees to understand how they think and react in unfamiliar situations. Part of your challenge is to remain open-minded and relaxed, projecting confidence even in unexpected or unfamiliar situations.\r\n<h2>Preparing for the Interview<\/h2>\r\nGood preparation before an interview is based on understanding who your [pb_glossary id=\"202\"]<strong>audience<\/strong>[\/pb_glossary] is\u2014understanding the employer and the industry. This is not the type of information you can memorize the night before. Take as much time as you can to read and absorb information from a variety of sources to get a thorough sense of the company\u2014not just the basic information you find on the \u201cAbout\u201d page of their website, but the tone and personality they broadcast in social media, their past and current projects, their achievements, their community involvement, etc.\r\n<h2>Job Interview Types and Techniques<\/h2>\r\n<img class=\"alignright wp-image-88 size-medium\" src=\"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/ppsccom2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2021\/05\/taking-notes-1024x683-1-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" \/>\r\n\r\nEvery interview you participate in will be unique: the people you meet, the interview setting, and the questions you\u2019ll be asked will all differ from one interview to the next. The various factors that characterize any interview can contribute to your sense of adventure and excitement. Nevertheless, feeling a little nervous about what lies ahead is also normal. With so many unknowns, how can you plan to \u201cnail the interview\u201d no matter what comes up? A good strategy for planning is to <em>anticipate<\/em> the type of interview you may encounter. Standard formats for job interviews are described in detail below. By knowing more about each type and being aware of techniques that work for each, you can plan to be on your game no matter what form your interview takes.\r\n<h3>Screening Interviews<\/h3>\r\nScreening interviews might best be characterized as \u201cweeding-out\u201d interviews. They ordinarily occur over the phone or in another low-stakes environment where the interviewer has maximum control over the interview time. Screening interviews are generally short because they glean only basic information about you. If you are scheduled to participate in a screening interview, you might safely assume that you have some competition for the job and that the company is using this strategy to whittle down the applicant pool. With this kind of interview, you aim to win a face-to-face interview. For this first shot, prepare well and challenge yourself to shine. This type of interview should be treated like a real interview. This may mean dressing for the interview and having your resume in front of you, so that it can be referred to. Another suggestion is to ensure your cell phone is fully charged and the screening interview takes place in a location free of distractions. Try to stand out from the competition and follow up with a thank-you note.\r\n<h3>Phone or Web Conference Interviews<\/h3>\r\nIf you are geographically separated from your prospective employer, you may be invited to participate in a phone interview or a web conference interview instead of meeting face-to-face. Technology, of course, is a good way to bridge distances. The fact that you\u2019re not there in person doesn\u2019t make it any less essential to be fully prepared, though. You may wish to be all the more \u201con your toes\u201d to compensate for the distance barrier. Ensure your phone or computer is fully charged and that your internet connection works (if possible, use an Ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi). Ensure a quiet and distraction-free environment at home for the interview. \u00a0If the interview is conducted via web conference, ensure your background is neat (ideally, a plain wall is preferred, but this isn't always possible). Avoid using a simulated background, as it often appears fake, and the employer may perceive that you are trying to conceal something.\r\n<h3>One-on-One Interviews<\/h3>\r\nMany job interviews are conducted with just you and a single interviewer, likely with the manager you would report to and work with. The one-on-one format allows you to see how well you connect and how well your talents, skills, and personalities mesh. You can expect to be asked questions like, \u201cWhy would you be good for this job?\u201d and \u201cTell me about yourself.\u201d Many interviewees prefer the one-on-one format because it allows them to spend in-depth time with the interviewer. Rapport can be built. As always, be very courteous and professional. Please have a portfolio of your best work handy, and be sure to get their contact info so you can send a follow-up email.\r\n<h3>Panel Interviews<\/h3>\r\nAn efficient format for meeting a candidate is a panel interview, in which perhaps two to five coworkers meet simultaneously with a single interviewee. The coworkers comprise the \u201csearch committee\u201d or \u201csearch panel,\u201d which may include different company representatives, such as human resources, management, and staff. One advantage of this format for the committee is that meeting together provides them with a shared experience to reflect on afterward. In a panel interview, listen carefully to questions from each panelist and try to connect fully with each questioner. Be sure to write down names and titles so individual thank-you notes can be sent after the interview.\r\n<h3>Serial Interviews<\/h3>\r\nSerial interviews combine one-on-one meetings with a group of interviewers, typically conducted as a series of staggered daily meetings. This type of interview is generally used for higher-level jobs when meeting with several key stakeholders in person is essential. If your interview process is designed in this way, you must be extremely well-prepared, as you will be answering many in-depth questions.\r\n<h3>Lunch Interviews<\/h3>\r\nIn some higher-level positions, candidates are taken to lunch or dinner, especially if this is a second interview (a \u201ccallback\u201d). If this is you, count yourself lucky and be on your best behavior because even if the lunch meeting is unstructured and informal, it\u2019s still an official interview. If all persons interviewing you are ordering an alcoholic drink, feel free to request one as well (know your tolerance!), along with a glass of water. Drink more slowly than the interviewer to show restraint and patience. You are not expected to pay or even to offer to pay, but, as always, you must send a thank-you note. Lastly, use your best table manners!\r\n\r\nThese are just some of the types of interviews you may encounter. The video below provides additional information if you are interested.\r\n\r\nhttps:\/\/youtu.be\/mMLQ7nSAyDQ\r\n\r\nLink to Original Video: <a href=\"https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/10interviewtypes\">tinyurl.com\/10interviewtypes<\/a>\r\n<h2>During the Interview<\/h2>\r\nOnce you have mentally prepared and gathered the necessary information for your [pb_glossary id=\"269\"]<strong>interview<\/strong>[\/pb_glossary], it\u2019s time to prepare for the interaction <strong>during<\/strong> the interview.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignnone wp-image-89\" src=\"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/ppsccom2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2025\/03\/conference-room-1024x683-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"633\" height=\"422\" \/>\r\n<h3>Dress the Part<\/h3>\r\nLet\u2019s keep this simple\u2014<em>dress your best<\/em>. In most business cultures, dressing professionally signifies respect, conveying that you value the position and want to make a positive impression.\r\n\r\nHere are the basics:\r\n<ol>\r\n \t<li>Wear your best professional attire\u2014typically a suit (with a tie) and dress shoes (no open-toe shoes, please, and no white socks).<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Try on the complete outfit (including shoes) to make sure you\u2019re comfortable. Does it fit? Does it stay in place? Can you sit down, shake hands, and move comfortably? You don\u2019t want your clothing to distract you or the interviewer.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Clean and press your clothes and shoes. Prepare your outfit the night before and hang it up (no wrinkles!).<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\nEven if you know the work environment is casual, you should dress \u201cup\u201d for the interview\u2014more professionally than you would if you worked there. The exception would be if you are explicitly told not to\u2014for instance, if the recruiter specifies that you should dress \u201cbusiness casual.\u201d\r\n<h3>Don\u2019t Come Empty-Handed<\/h3>\r\nArriving at the interview with essential documents and notes shows you are prepared and thinking ahead. Organize all your materials in a nice folder or folio\u2014presentation matters! Print out several clean copies of your [pb_glossary id=\"268\"]r\u00e9sum\u00e9[\/pb_glossary] and any other documents you might want to reference, like the job or internship description or your references. If possible, you should also bring a few samples of your work\u2014documents you\u2019ve prepared or artifacts from projects. Make the most of that research and preparation by bringing notes. A lovely notebook or paper and a pen are perfectly acceptable for you to have in the interview, and they can help you feel more focused by getting some of the information out of your head and organized on paper.\r\n\r\nFollow these guidelines:\r\n<ol>\r\n \t<li><strong>Be organized.<\/strong> Rewrite or type and print your notes to find the needed information easily. You don\u2019t want to be shuffling through scraps of paper.<\/li>\r\n \t<li><b>Please keep it simple.<\/b> Write down keywords, brief phrases, and ideas that will jog your memory, not a complete script.<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Prepare questions for the interviewer<\/strong> (see examples below). You can typically ask these questions at the end of the interview, when it can be challenging to recall what you would ask.<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<div class=\"textbox\"><strong>Pro Tip:<\/strong> Take notes during the interview! The interviewer will likely reveal information to you during the conversation, so write down anything you want to remember or refer to later in the conversation.<\/div>\r\n<h2>Interview Questions<\/h2>\r\nFor most job candidates, the burning question is, \u201cWhat will I be asked?\u201d There\u2019s no way to anticipate every question that may arise during an interview. No matter how well-prepared you are, you may get a question you didn\u2019t expect. Not to worry! Prepare as much as possible\u2014doing so will build your confidence in your answers and help you prepare for unexpected questions. Think of the interview as a kind of <a href=\"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/chapter\/types-of-speeches\/#chapter-501-section-1\">impromptu speech<\/a>. To help you reach that point of certainty and confidence, review typical interview questions, consider your answers, and take notes if that helps. Conduct a practice interview with a friend, a family member, or a colleague. Speak your answers out loud. Below is a list of resources that contain common interview questions and provide good explanations and answers you might want to adopt.\r\n<div>\r\n<table class=\"grid aligncenter\" style=\"height: 387px;\" width=\"811\"><caption>Interview Preparation Websites\u00a0<\/caption>\r\n<thead>\r\n<tr style=\"height: 14px;\">\r\n<td class=\"border\" style=\"height: 14px; width: 9.05px;\"><\/td>\r\n<td class=\"border\" style=\"height: 14px; width: 170px;\">WEBSITE:<\/td>\r\n<td class=\"border\" style=\"height: 14px; width: 613.15px;\">DESCRIPTION:<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/thead>\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr style=\"height: 74px;\">\r\n<td class=\"border\" style=\"height: 74px; width: 9.05px;\">1<\/td>\r\n<td class=\"border\" style=\"height: 74px; width: 170px;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/career-advice.monster.com\/job-interview\/interview-questions\/100-potential-interview-questions\/article.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">100 top job interview questions\u2014be prepared for the interview<\/a> (from Monster.com)<\/td>\r\n<td class=\"border\" style=\"height: 74px; width: 613.15px;\">This site provides a comprehensive set of interview questions you might expect to be asked, categorized by topic, including basic, behavioral, salary, career development, and more. Some of the listed questions also provide comprehensive answers.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"height: 59px;\">\r\n<td class=\"border\" style=\"height: 59px; width: 9.05px;\">2<\/td>\r\n<td class=\"border\" style=\"height: 59px; width: 170px;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/biginterview.com\/blog\/interview-questions-answers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Interview Questions and Answers<\/a> (from BigInterview)<\/td>\r\n<td class=\"border\" style=\"height: 59px; width: 613.15px;\">This site provides text and video answers to the following questions: Tell me about yourself, describe your current position, why are you looking for a new job, what are your strengths, what is your greatest weakness, why do you want to work here, where do you see yourself in five years, why should we hire you, and do you have any questions for me?<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"height: 74px;\">\r\n<td class=\"border\" style=\"height: 74px; width: 9.05px;\">3<\/td>\r\n<td class=\"border\" style=\"height: 74px; width: 170px;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/collegegrad.com\/jobsearch\/mastering-the-interview\/ten-tough-interview-questions-and-ten-great-answers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ten Tough Interview Questions and Ten Great Answers<\/a>\u00a0(from CollegeGrad)<\/td>\r\n<td class=\"border\" style=\"height: 74px; width: 613.15px;\">This site explores some of the most challenging questions you will face in job interviews. The more open-ended the question, the greater the variation among answers. Once you have practiced your interviewing skills, you will find that you can use almost any question as a launching pad for a particular topic or compelling story.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\nThe video below asks different hiring managers what they want to hear from candidates in interviews.\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n[embed]https:\/\/youtu.be\/5NVYg2HNAdA[\/embed]\r\n\r\nLink to Original Video: <a href=\"http:\/\/tinyurl.com\/answeringintqs\"><span style=\"font-size: 1em;\">tinyurl.com\/answeringintqs<\/span><\/a>\r\n<h2>Questions to Ask the Interviewer<\/h2>\r\nAt the end of nearly every interview, applicants are often asked if they have any questions they would like to pose to the employer. Do you have a question ready to ask? In addition to revealing your knowledge of the company, these questions are also an opportunity to determine if the employer and the company culture are a good fit for you. Think carefully about what matters to you and what would allow you to do your best work, and try to ask questions that will give you insight into those factors.\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>What are the primary tasks or responsibilities of a person in this position? What does a day in this job look like? Is travel required? Overtime?<\/li>\r\n \t<li>What is the orientation or training process?<\/li>\r\n \t<li>What are the goals\/priorities for a person in this position? How will success be measured?<\/li>\r\n \t<li>What is the company\u2019s assessment and review process?<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Does the company support professional development activities?<\/li>\r\n \t<li>How does this position fit within the team\/department? What is the reporting structure?<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Does this position function alone or within a team setting?<\/li>\r\n \t<li>How would you describe the company culture or team dynamic?<\/li>\r\n \t<li>What is this company\u2019s approach to management?<\/li>\r\n \t<li>What are the company\u2019s overall goals and priorities, and how do they affect someone in this department\/position?<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<strong>NOTE<\/strong>: The end of the interview is not typically the best time to ask about salary and benefits. This is your opportunity to learn about the workplace, position, environment, structure, and employee support programs.\r\n<div class=\"textbox shaded\">\r\n\r\n<em>From Donnie Perkins, Chief Diversity Officer, College of Engineering at Ohio State. Learn more <a href=\"https:\/\/engineering.osu.edu\/programs\">here<\/a>.<\/em>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: 1em;\">The following are some\u00a0<\/span><strong style=\"font-size: 1em;\">questions students may ask prospective employers about their diversity, inclusion, and equity<\/strong><span style=\"font-size: 1em;\">. Company recruiters who can provide factual and reasonable responses to these questions are on an\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"><span style=\"font-size: 1em;\">upward track to\u00a0<\/span>advancing diversity and inclusion in ways that genuinely benefit employees, the company, customers, and the community, while promoting innovation<\/span>, strategic thinking, and active engagement.\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>How does [Company] define diversity, inclusion, and equity? Explain how diversity, inclusion, and equity benefit [Company].<\/li>\r\n \t<li>What are the racial, ethnic, and gender demographics of [Company\u2019s] company-wide, leadership, and manager levels?<\/li>\r\n \t<li>As a national and\/or multinational company, describe your cultural competency training program for employees who will take assignments in [specific countries or continents where the company does business].<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Describe the role and responsibilities of women and persons of color on [Company\u2019s] leadership team.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Give me an example of how [Company] values people of color, women, LGBTQIA+, veterans, and employees with disabilities.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<h2>Body Language &amp; Interaction<\/h2>\r\nGenerally, it\u2019s essential to be observant and take your cues from the interviewer. Reflect on their tone and pay attention to the dynamic they set\u2014are they very formal and professional or more conversational? Small talk is acceptable, but it's best to follow the interviewer's lead. <strong>Be conscious of your posture.<\/strong> You should sit up straight (no leaning or lounging) and avoid crossing your arms in front of your chest (it can seem defensive or withdrawn).\u00a0<span style=\"margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"><strong>Maintain eye contact.<\/strong> Look at the interviewer while they ask you questions and provide non-verbal cues\u2014such as smiling and<\/span>\u00a0nodding\u2014when appropriate. Make it clear that you are listening and understand what they\u2019re saying.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft wp-image-595 size-medium\" src=\"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/ppsccom2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2025\/03\/interview-conference-table.jpeg\" alt=\"Women being interviewed. \" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" \/>\r\n\r\n<strong>Speak clearly and thoughtfully.<\/strong> Adjust your volume to suit the environment and ensure the interviewer can hear and understand you clearly. Don\u2019t rush yourself; take the time to deliver thoughtful responses. Ask for clarification if you don\u2019t understand a question<span style=\"margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"><strong>\u2014project<\/strong><\/span><strong>\u00a0calm.<\/strong> Fidgeting and extra movement can make you seem nervous even if you aren\u2019t. Be aware of your tendencies and try to minimize them. If you know you fidget, keep your hands folded and avoid clicking or tapping the pen. Don\u2019t wear jewelry that you will play with or that will make noise while you move. Wear your hair in a way that will not constantly tempt you to touch or play with it. If seated at a table, sit towards the front of the chair and plant your feet on the floor\u2014it can help keep you steady. <strong>Be yourself.<\/strong> In addition to the previous tips, you must feel comfortable and like yourself. If you are enthusiastic, talk with your hands, or are shy, that\u2019s fine\u2014you need to be the most engaged, professional version of yourself to show the interviewer what you are capable of in the workplace.\r\n<h2>After the Interview<\/h2>\r\nAt the end of the interview, you should ask the interviewer what you can expect regarding the next steps or when they might decide about the position. This will help set your expectations and allow you to prepare for future interactions\u2014they may involve multiple rounds of interviews or additional meetings with candidates, for instance. Within 24 hours of the interview, you should send a <span style=\"margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"><strong>thank-you note<\/strong>\u00a0to the interviewer(s).\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/chapter\/correspondence-text-messages-emails-memos-and-letters\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Email<\/a> is a standard and expected means of communication for this message,<\/span> and you will likely have already been in contact with them via email or will have their business card from the interview. The formula for this message is simple, but choose your words carefully and try to extend their good impression of your <a href=\"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/chapter\/memos-and-letters\/\">written communication<\/a> here as well:\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>Relevant subject line<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Gratitude for their time and the opportunity<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Your continued interest in the position<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Something specific from your conversation (this is where taking notes comes in handy!)<\/li>\r\n \t<li>The remainder of your qualifications<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Positive and forward-looking conclusion<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nYou will want to reflect the overall [pb_glossary id=\"197\"]<strong>tone<\/strong>[\/pb_glossary] of your interaction\u2014try to make it consistent with the person they met the day before.\r\n<div class=\"textbox\">\r\n\r\nSubject: Design Engineer Internship \u2013 Thank you\r\n\r\nMs. Tanner,\r\n\r\nThank you for the opportunity to meet with you yesterday. I learned a great deal about the Design Engineer Internship at ABC Innovations, and I remain very interested in the position.\r\n\r\nAfter hearing about the project I would be assigned to, I further researched your prototyping process. I can see interesting connections between the work I did in my previous internship. It would be exciting to build on that knowledge with your team.\r\n\r\nPlease feel free to contact me by phone at xxx-xxx-xxxx or by email if you require any additional information. I look forward to hearing from you.\r\n\r\nThank you,\r\n\r\nJ. Buckeye\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--key-takeaways\"><header class=\"textbox__header\">\r\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">Key Takeaways<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/header>\r\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>[pb_glossary id=\"324\"]<strong>Interviewing<\/strong>[\/pb_glossary] is all about preparation. Never walk in blind to an interview. Take some time beforehand to research the company and the position. This will help you better articulate how you will fit them well. Review some common interview questions and have some stories in mind that you can use to answer them.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Also, come prepared with some questions of your own. Select the most important ones to help determine if the company is a good fit.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>After the interview is complete, send a [pb_glossary id=\"325\"]<strong>thank you note<\/strong>[\/pb_glossary] to the person or people you met with. Keep in mind that this is an opportunity to emphasize your qualifications. If your thank-you note has many grammatical errors, it will reflect poorly on you as a candidate.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--exercises\"><header class=\"textbox__header\">\r\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">Attribution<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/header>\r\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\r\n\r\nThis chapter is adapted from <a href=\"https:\/\/ohiostate.pressbooks.pub\/engrtechcomm\/chapter\/interview-strategies\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u201cA Guide to Technical Communications: Strategies &amp; Applications\u201d<\/a>\u00a0by\u00a0Lynn Hall and Leah Wahlin (on <a href=\"https:\/\/ohiostate.pressbooks.pub\/\">ohiostate.pressbooks.pub<\/a>). It is licensed under a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc\/4.0\/\">Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License<\/a>\r\n\r\nThis chapter is also adapted from <a href=\"https:\/\/press.rebus.community\/blueprint2\/chapter\/43-interviewing\/\">\u201cBlueprint for Success in College and Career\u201d<\/a> by Lumen Learning and Linda (Bruce) Hill (on <a href=\"https:\/\/press.rebus.community\/\">Rebus Community<\/a>). It is licensed under a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/4.0\/\">Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License<\/a>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>","rendered":"<div class=\"textbox textbox--learning-objectives\">\n<header class=\"textbox__header\">\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">Learning Objectives<\/p>\n<\/header>\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\n<p>By the end of this section, you should be able to:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Explain at least three strategies for preparing for an interview.<\/li>\n<li>Explain how to best respond to interview questions.<\/li>\n<li>Identify the required elements of a post-interview thank-you note.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<header><span style=\"text-align: initial; font-size: 1em;\"><strong><a class=\"glossary-term\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-describedby=\"definition\" href=\"#term_91_324\">Interviewing<\/a><\/strong> is the phase of the job search process where you transition from being a paper applicant to a real, three-dimensional person. You will be evaluated on your verbal communication skills through this face-to-face (or video or phone) interaction. Employers want to see whether you match up to the qualifications described in your <a class=\"glossary-term\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-describedby=\"definition\" href=\"#term_91_268\"><strong>r\u00e9sum\u00e9<\/strong><\/a>, and they want to know whether you have good interpersonal communication skills to get a sense of how you would function as part of their team.<\/span><\/header>\n<p><span class=\"pullquote-left\">&#8220;One important key to success is self-confidence. An important key to self-confidence is preparation.&#8221; (Arthur Ashe)<\/span>Interviews are often intimidating for job seekers who feel the pressure of being evaluated and feel uncomfortable with the <a class=\"glossary-term\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-describedby=\"definition\" href=\"#term_91_269\"><strong>interview<\/strong><\/a> format. While the nervousness may never disappear, effectively preparing for the interview can make you feel more confident. With practice, you must stay in the moment and treat the interview like a conversation.<\/p>\n<p>This chapter focuses on general interview preparation. Remember, however, that different disciplines and industries employ distinct interviewing techniques. For instance, the technical interview, also known as \u201ccode day,\u201d has become a standard practice for many computer science-related fields. You should always research standard industry practices, but remember that interviews can be surprising. Some employers try to surprise interviewees to understand how they think and react in unfamiliar situations. Part of your challenge is to remain open-minded and relaxed, projecting confidence even in unexpected or unfamiliar situations.<\/p>\n<h2>Preparing for the Interview<\/h2>\n<p>Good preparation before an interview is based on understanding who your <a class=\"glossary-term\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-describedby=\"definition\" href=\"#term_91_202\"><strong>audience<\/strong><\/a> is\u2014understanding the employer and the industry. This is not the type of information you can memorize the night before. Take as much time as you can to read and absorb information from a variety of sources to get a thorough sense of the company\u2014not just the basic information you find on the \u201cAbout\u201d page of their website, but the tone and personality they broadcast in social media, their past and current projects, their achievements, their community involvement, etc.<\/p>\n<h2>Job Interview Types and Techniques<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-88 size-medium\" src=\"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/ppsccom2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2021\/05\/taking-notes-1024x683-1-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2021\/05\/taking-notes-1024x683-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2021\/05\/taking-notes-1024x683-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2021\/05\/taking-notes-1024x683-1-65x43.jpg 65w, https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2021\/05\/taking-notes-1024x683-1-225x150.jpg 225w, https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2021\/05\/taking-notes-1024x683-1-350x233.jpg 350w, https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2021\/05\/taking-notes-1024x683-1.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Every interview you participate in will be unique: the people you meet, the interview setting, and the questions you\u2019ll be asked will all differ from one interview to the next. The various factors that characterize any interview can contribute to your sense of adventure and excitement. Nevertheless, feeling a little nervous about what lies ahead is also normal. With so many unknowns, how can you plan to \u201cnail the interview\u201d no matter what comes up? A good strategy for planning is to <em>anticipate<\/em> the type of interview you may encounter. Standard formats for job interviews are described in detail below. By knowing more about each type and being aware of techniques that work for each, you can plan to be on your game no matter what form your interview takes.<\/p>\n<h3>Screening Interviews<\/h3>\n<p>Screening interviews might best be characterized as \u201cweeding-out\u201d interviews. They ordinarily occur over the phone or in another low-stakes environment where the interviewer has maximum control over the interview time. Screening interviews are generally short because they glean only basic information about you. If you are scheduled to participate in a screening interview, you might safely assume that you have some competition for the job and that the company is using this strategy to whittle down the applicant pool. With this kind of interview, you aim to win a face-to-face interview. For this first shot, prepare well and challenge yourself to shine. This type of interview should be treated like a real interview. This may mean dressing for the interview and having your resume in front of you, so that it can be referred to. Another suggestion is to ensure your cell phone is fully charged and the screening interview takes place in a location free of distractions. Try to stand out from the competition and follow up with a thank-you note.<\/p>\n<h3>Phone or Web Conference Interviews<\/h3>\n<p>If you are geographically separated from your prospective employer, you may be invited to participate in a phone interview or a web conference interview instead of meeting face-to-face. Technology, of course, is a good way to bridge distances. The fact that you\u2019re not there in person doesn\u2019t make it any less essential to be fully prepared, though. You may wish to be all the more \u201con your toes\u201d to compensate for the distance barrier. Ensure your phone or computer is fully charged and that your internet connection works (if possible, use an Ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi). Ensure a quiet and distraction-free environment at home for the interview. \u00a0If the interview is conducted via web conference, ensure your background is neat (ideally, a plain wall is preferred, but this isn&#8217;t always possible). Avoid using a simulated background, as it often appears fake, and the employer may perceive that you are trying to conceal something.<\/p>\n<h3>One-on-One Interviews<\/h3>\n<p>Many job interviews are conducted with just you and a single interviewer, likely with the manager you would report to and work with. The one-on-one format allows you to see how well you connect and how well your talents, skills, and personalities mesh. You can expect to be asked questions like, \u201cWhy would you be good for this job?\u201d and \u201cTell me about yourself.\u201d Many interviewees prefer the one-on-one format because it allows them to spend in-depth time with the interviewer. Rapport can be built. As always, be very courteous and professional. Please have a portfolio of your best work handy, and be sure to get their contact info so you can send a follow-up email.<\/p>\n<h3>Panel Interviews<\/h3>\n<p>An efficient format for meeting a candidate is a panel interview, in which perhaps two to five coworkers meet simultaneously with a single interviewee. The coworkers comprise the \u201csearch committee\u201d or \u201csearch panel,\u201d which may include different company representatives, such as human resources, management, and staff. One advantage of this format for the committee is that meeting together provides them with a shared experience to reflect on afterward. In a panel interview, listen carefully to questions from each panelist and try to connect fully with each questioner. Be sure to write down names and titles so individual thank-you notes can be sent after the interview.<\/p>\n<h3>Serial Interviews<\/h3>\n<p>Serial interviews combine one-on-one meetings with a group of interviewers, typically conducted as a series of staggered daily meetings. This type of interview is generally used for higher-level jobs when meeting with several key stakeholders in person is essential. If your interview process is designed in this way, you must be extremely well-prepared, as you will be answering many in-depth questions.<\/p>\n<h3>Lunch Interviews<\/h3>\n<p>In some higher-level positions, candidates are taken to lunch or dinner, especially if this is a second interview (a \u201ccallback\u201d). If this is you, count yourself lucky and be on your best behavior because even if the lunch meeting is unstructured and informal, it\u2019s still an official interview. If all persons interviewing you are ordering an alcoholic drink, feel free to request one as well (know your tolerance!), along with a glass of water. Drink more slowly than the interviewer to show restraint and patience. You are not expected to pay or even to offer to pay, but, as always, you must send a thank-you note. Lastly, use your best table manners!<\/p>\n<p>These are just some of the types of interviews you may encounter. The video below provides additional information if you are interested.<\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" id=\"oembed-2\" title=\"Job Interview Guide - 10 Different Types of Interviews in Today&#39;s Modern World\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/mMLQ7nSAyDQ?feature=oembed&#38;rel=0\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<p>Link to Original Video: <a href=\"https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/10interviewtypes\">tinyurl.com\/10interviewtypes<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>During the Interview<\/h2>\n<p>Once you have mentally prepared and gathered the necessary information for your <a class=\"glossary-term\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-describedby=\"definition\" href=\"#term_91_269\"><strong>interview<\/strong><\/a>, it\u2019s time to prepare for the interaction <strong>during<\/strong> the interview.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-89\" src=\"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/ppsccom2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2025\/03\/conference-room-1024x683-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"633\" height=\"422\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2025\/03\/conference-room-1024x683-1.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2025\/03\/conference-room-1024x683-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2025\/03\/conference-room-1024x683-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2025\/03\/conference-room-1024x683-1-65x43.jpg 65w, https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2025\/03\/conference-room-1024x683-1-225x150.jpg 225w, https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2025\/03\/conference-room-1024x683-1-350x233.jpg 350w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 633px) 100vw, 633px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3>Dress the Part<\/h3>\n<p>Let\u2019s keep this simple\u2014<em>dress your best<\/em>. In most business cultures, dressing professionally signifies respect, conveying that you value the position and want to make a positive impression.<\/p>\n<p>Here are the basics:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Wear your best professional attire\u2014typically a suit (with a tie) and dress shoes (no open-toe shoes, please, and no white socks).<\/li>\n<li>Try on the complete outfit (including shoes) to make sure you\u2019re comfortable. Does it fit? Does it stay in place? Can you sit down, shake hands, and move comfortably? You don\u2019t want your clothing to distract you or the interviewer.<\/li>\n<li>Clean and press your clothes and shoes. Prepare your outfit the night before and hang it up (no wrinkles!).<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Even if you know the work environment is casual, you should dress \u201cup\u201d for the interview\u2014more professionally than you would if you worked there. The exception would be if you are explicitly told not to\u2014for instance, if the recruiter specifies that you should dress \u201cbusiness casual.\u201d<\/p>\n<h3>Don\u2019t Come Empty-Handed<\/h3>\n<p>Arriving at the interview with essential documents and notes shows you are prepared and thinking ahead. Organize all your materials in a nice folder or folio\u2014presentation matters! Print out several clean copies of your <a class=\"glossary-term\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-describedby=\"definition\" href=\"#term_91_268\">r\u00e9sum\u00e9<\/a> and any other documents you might want to reference, like the job or internship description or your references. If possible, you should also bring a few samples of your work\u2014documents you\u2019ve prepared or artifacts from projects. Make the most of that research and preparation by bringing notes. A lovely notebook or paper and a pen are perfectly acceptable for you to have in the interview, and they can help you feel more focused by getting some of the information out of your head and organized on paper.<\/p>\n<p>Follow these guidelines:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Be organized.<\/strong> Rewrite or type and print your notes to find the needed information easily. You don\u2019t want to be shuffling through scraps of paper.<\/li>\n<li><b>Please keep it simple.<\/b> Write down keywords, brief phrases, and ideas that will jog your memory, not a complete script.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Prepare questions for the interviewer<\/strong> (see examples below). You can typically ask these questions at the end of the interview, when it can be challenging to recall what you would ask.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<div class=\"textbox\"><strong>Pro Tip:<\/strong> Take notes during the interview! The interviewer will likely reveal information to you during the conversation, so write down anything you want to remember or refer to later in the conversation.<\/div>\n<h2>Interview Questions<\/h2>\n<p>For most job candidates, the burning question is, \u201cWhat will I be asked?\u201d There\u2019s no way to anticipate every question that may arise during an interview. No matter how well-prepared you are, you may get a question you didn\u2019t expect. Not to worry! Prepare as much as possible\u2014doing so will build your confidence in your answers and help you prepare for unexpected questions. Think of the interview as a kind of <a href=\"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/chapter\/types-of-speeches\/#chapter-501-section-1\">impromptu speech<\/a>. To help you reach that point of certainty and confidence, review typical interview questions, consider your answers, and take notes if that helps. Conduct a practice interview with a friend, a family member, or a colleague. Speak your answers out loud. Below is a list of resources that contain common interview questions and provide good explanations and answers you might want to adopt.<\/p>\n<div>\n<table class=\"grid aligncenter\" style=\"height: 387px; width: 811px;\">\n<caption>Interview Preparation Websites\u00a0<\/caption>\n<thead>\n<tr style=\"height: 14px;\">\n<td class=\"border\" style=\"height: 14px; width: 9.05px;\"><\/td>\n<td class=\"border\" style=\"height: 14px; width: 170px;\">WEBSITE:<\/td>\n<td class=\"border\" style=\"height: 14px; width: 613.15px;\">DESCRIPTION:<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"height: 74px;\">\n<td class=\"border\" style=\"height: 74px; width: 9.05px;\">1<\/td>\n<td class=\"border\" style=\"height: 74px; width: 170px;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/career-advice.monster.com\/job-interview\/interview-questions\/100-potential-interview-questions\/article.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">100 top job interview questions\u2014be prepared for the interview<\/a> (from Monster.com)<\/td>\n<td class=\"border\" style=\"height: 74px; width: 613.15px;\">This site provides a comprehensive set of interview questions you might expect to be asked, categorized by topic, including basic, behavioral, salary, career development, and more. Some of the listed questions also provide comprehensive answers.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 59px;\">\n<td class=\"border\" style=\"height: 59px; width: 9.05px;\">2<\/td>\n<td class=\"border\" style=\"height: 59px; width: 170px;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/biginterview.com\/blog\/interview-questions-answers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Interview Questions and Answers<\/a> (from BigInterview)<\/td>\n<td class=\"border\" style=\"height: 59px; width: 613.15px;\">This site provides text and video answers to the following questions: Tell me about yourself, describe your current position, why are you looking for a new job, what are your strengths, what is your greatest weakness, why do you want to work here, where do you see yourself in five years, why should we hire you, and do you have any questions for me?<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 74px;\">\n<td class=\"border\" style=\"height: 74px; width: 9.05px;\">3<\/td>\n<td class=\"border\" style=\"height: 74px; width: 170px;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/collegegrad.com\/jobsearch\/mastering-the-interview\/ten-tough-interview-questions-and-ten-great-answers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ten Tough Interview Questions and Ten Great Answers<\/a>\u00a0(from CollegeGrad)<\/td>\n<td class=\"border\" style=\"height: 74px; width: 613.15px;\">This site explores some of the most challenging questions you will face in job interviews. The more open-ended the question, the greater the variation among answers. Once you have practiced your interviewing skills, you will find that you can use almost any question as a launching pad for a particular topic or compelling story.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>The video below asks different hiring managers what they want to hear from candidates in interviews.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" id=\"oembed-1\" title=\"&quot;Why Should We Hire You?&quot; How to Answer this Interview Question\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/5NVYg2HNAdA?feature=oembed&#38;rel=0\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<p>Link to Original Video: <a href=\"http:\/\/tinyurl.com\/answeringintqs\"><span style=\"font-size: 1em;\">tinyurl.com\/answeringintqs<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<h2>Questions to Ask the Interviewer<\/h2>\n<p>At the end of nearly every interview, applicants are often asked if they have any questions they would like to pose to the employer. Do you have a question ready to ask? In addition to revealing your knowledge of the company, these questions are also an opportunity to determine if the employer and the company culture are a good fit for you. Think carefully about what matters to you and what would allow you to do your best work, and try to ask questions that will give you insight into those factors.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>What are the primary tasks or responsibilities of a person in this position? What does a day in this job look like? Is travel required? Overtime?<\/li>\n<li>What is the orientation or training process?<\/li>\n<li>What are the goals\/priorities for a person in this position? How will success be measured?<\/li>\n<li>What is the company\u2019s assessment and review process?<\/li>\n<li>Does the company support professional development activities?<\/li>\n<li>How does this position fit within the team\/department? What is the reporting structure?<\/li>\n<li>Does this position function alone or within a team setting?<\/li>\n<li>How would you describe the company culture or team dynamic?<\/li>\n<li>What is this company\u2019s approach to management?<\/li>\n<li>What are the company\u2019s overall goals and priorities, and how do they affect someone in this department\/position?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>NOTE<\/strong>: The end of the interview is not typically the best time to ask about salary and benefits. This is your opportunity to learn about the workplace, position, environment, structure, and employee support programs.<\/p>\n<div class=\"textbox shaded\">\n<p><em>From Donnie Perkins, Chief Diversity Officer, College of Engineering at Ohio State. Learn more <a href=\"https:\/\/engineering.osu.edu\/programs\">here<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 1em;\">The following are some\u00a0<\/span><strong style=\"font-size: 1em;\">questions students may ask prospective employers about their diversity, inclusion, and equity<\/strong><span style=\"font-size: 1em;\">. Company recruiters who can provide factual and reasonable responses to these questions are on an\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"><span style=\"font-size: 1em;\">upward track to\u00a0<\/span>advancing diversity and inclusion in ways that genuinely benefit employees, the company, customers, and the community, while promoting innovation<\/span>, strategic thinking, and active engagement.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>How does [Company] define diversity, inclusion, and equity? Explain how diversity, inclusion, and equity benefit [Company].<\/li>\n<li>What are the racial, ethnic, and gender demographics of [Company\u2019s] company-wide, leadership, and manager levels?<\/li>\n<li>As a national and\/or multinational company, describe your cultural competency training program for employees who will take assignments in [specific countries or continents where the company does business].<\/li>\n<li>Describe the role and responsibilities of women and persons of color on [Company\u2019s] leadership team.<\/li>\n<li>Give me an example of how [Company] values people of color, women, LGBTQIA+, veterans, and employees with disabilities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Body Language &amp; Interaction<\/h2>\n<p>Generally, it\u2019s essential to be observant and take your cues from the interviewer. Reflect on their tone and pay attention to the dynamic they set\u2014are they very formal and professional or more conversational? Small talk is acceptable, but it&#8217;s best to follow the interviewer&#8217;s lead. <strong>Be conscious of your posture.<\/strong> You should sit up straight (no leaning or lounging) and avoid crossing your arms in front of your chest (it can seem defensive or withdrawn).\u00a0<span style=\"margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"><strong>Maintain eye contact.<\/strong> Look at the interviewer while they ask you questions and provide non-verbal cues\u2014such as smiling and<\/span>\u00a0nodding\u2014when appropriate. Make it clear that you are listening and understand what they\u2019re saying.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft wp-image-595 size-medium\" src=\"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/ppsccom2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2025\/03\/interview-conference-table.jpeg\" alt=\"Women being interviewed.\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong>Speak clearly and thoughtfully.<\/strong> Adjust your volume to suit the environment and ensure the interviewer can hear and understand you clearly. Don\u2019t rush yourself; take the time to deliver thoughtful responses. Ask for clarification if you don\u2019t understand a question<span style=\"margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"><strong>\u2014project<\/strong><\/span><strong>\u00a0calm.<\/strong> Fidgeting and extra movement can make you seem nervous even if you aren\u2019t. Be aware of your tendencies and try to minimize them. If you know you fidget, keep your hands folded and avoid clicking or tapping the pen. Don\u2019t wear jewelry that you will play with or that will make noise while you move. Wear your hair in a way that will not constantly tempt you to touch or play with it. If seated at a table, sit towards the front of the chair and plant your feet on the floor\u2014it can help keep you steady. <strong>Be yourself.<\/strong> In addition to the previous tips, you must feel comfortable and like yourself. If you are enthusiastic, talk with your hands, or are shy, that\u2019s fine\u2014you need to be the most engaged, professional version of yourself to show the interviewer what you are capable of in the workplace.<\/p>\n<h2>After the Interview<\/h2>\n<p>At the end of the interview, you should ask the interviewer what you can expect regarding the next steps or when they might decide about the position. This will help set your expectations and allow you to prepare for future interactions\u2014they may involve multiple rounds of interviews or additional meetings with candidates, for instance. Within 24 hours of the interview, you should send a <span style=\"margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"><strong>thank-you note<\/strong>\u00a0to the interviewer(s).\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/chapter\/correspondence-text-messages-emails-memos-and-letters\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Email<\/a> is a standard and expected means of communication for this message,<\/span> and you will likely have already been in contact with them via email or will have their business card from the interview. The formula for this message is simple, but choose your words carefully and try to extend their good impression of your <a href=\"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/chapter\/memos-and-letters\/\">written communication<\/a> here as well:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Relevant subject line<\/li>\n<li>Gratitude for their time and the opportunity<\/li>\n<li>Your continued interest in the position<\/li>\n<li>Something specific from your conversation (this is where taking notes comes in handy!)<\/li>\n<li>The remainder of your qualifications<\/li>\n<li>Positive and forward-looking conclusion<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>You will want to reflect the overall <a class=\"glossary-term\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-describedby=\"definition\" href=\"#term_91_197\"><strong>tone<\/strong><\/a> of your interaction\u2014try to make it consistent with the person they met the day before.<\/p>\n<div class=\"textbox\">\n<p>Subject: Design Engineer Internship \u2013 Thank you<\/p>\n<p>Ms. Tanner,<\/p>\n<p>Thank you for the opportunity to meet with you yesterday. I learned a great deal about the Design Engineer Internship at ABC Innovations, and I remain very interested in the position.<\/p>\n<p>After hearing about the project I would be assigned to, I further researched your prototyping process. I can see interesting connections between the work I did in my previous internship. It would be exciting to build on that knowledge with your team.<\/p>\n<p>Please feel free to contact me by phone at xxx-xxx-xxxx or by email if you require any additional information. I look forward to hearing from you.<\/p>\n<p>Thank you,<\/p>\n<p>J. Buckeye<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--key-takeaways\">\n<header class=\"textbox__header\">\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">Key Takeaways<\/p>\n<\/header>\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\n<ul>\n<li><a class=\"glossary-term\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-describedby=\"definition\" href=\"#term_91_324\"><strong>Interviewing<\/strong><\/a> is all about preparation. Never walk in blind to an interview. Take some time beforehand to research the company and the position. This will help you better articulate how you will fit them well. Review some common interview questions and have some stories in mind that you can use to answer them.<\/li>\n<li>Also, come prepared with some questions of your own. Select the most important ones to help determine if the company is a good fit.<\/li>\n<li>After the interview is complete, send a <a class=\"glossary-term\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-describedby=\"definition\" href=\"#term_91_325\"><strong>thank you note<\/strong><\/a> to the person or people you met with. Keep in mind that this is an opportunity to emphasize your qualifications. If your thank-you note has many grammatical errors, it will reflect poorly on you as a candidate.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--exercises\">\n<header class=\"textbox__header\">\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">Attribution<\/p>\n<\/header>\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\n<p>This chapter is adapted from <a href=\"https:\/\/ohiostate.pressbooks.pub\/engrtechcomm\/chapter\/interview-strategies\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u201cA Guide to Technical Communications: Strategies &amp; Applications\u201d<\/a>\u00a0by\u00a0Lynn Hall and Leah Wahlin (on <a href=\"https:\/\/ohiostate.pressbooks.pub\/\">ohiostate.pressbooks.pub<\/a>). It is licensed under a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc\/4.0\/\">Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License<\/a><\/p>\n<p>This chapter is also adapted from <a href=\"https:\/\/press.rebus.community\/blueprint2\/chapter\/43-interviewing\/\">\u201cBlueprint for Success in College and Career\u201d<\/a> by Lumen Learning and Linda (Bruce) Hill (on <a href=\"https:\/\/press.rebus.community\/\">Rebus Community<\/a>). It is licensed under a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/4.0\/\">Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"glossary\"><span class=\"screen-reader-text\" id=\"definition\">definition<\/span><template id=\"term_91_324\"><div class=\"glossary__definition\" role=\"dialog\" data-id=\"term_91_324\"><div tabindex=\"-1\"><p>the phase of the job search process where you are evaluated on your verbal communication skills through face-to-face (or phone) interaction<\/p>\n<\/div><button><span aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/span><span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Close definition<\/span><\/button><\/div><\/template><template id=\"term_91_268\"><div class=\"glossary__definition\" role=\"dialog\" data-id=\"term_91_268\"><div tabindex=\"-1\"><p>a document that summarizes your education, skills, talents, employment history, and experiences in a clear and concise format for potential employers<\/p>\n<\/div><button><span aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/span><span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Close definition<\/span><\/button><\/div><\/template><template id=\"term_91_269\"><div class=\"glossary__definition\" role=\"dialog\" data-id=\"term_91_269\"><div tabindex=\"-1\"><p>the phase of the job search process where you go from being an applicant on paper to a real, three dimensional person.<\/p>\n<\/div><button><span aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/span><span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Close definition<\/span><\/button><\/div><\/template><template id=\"term_91_202\"><div class=\"glossary__definition\" role=\"dialog\" data-id=\"term_91_202\"><div tabindex=\"-1\"><p>the receiver or receivers of a message<\/p>\n<\/div><button><span aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/span><span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Close definition<\/span><\/button><\/div><\/template><template id=\"term_91_197\"><div class=\"glossary__definition\" role=\"dialog\" data-id=\"term_91_197\"><div tabindex=\"-1\"><p>the attitude of a communicator toward the message being delivered and\/or the audience receiving the message<\/p>\n<\/div><button><span aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/span><span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Close definition<\/span><\/button><\/div><\/template><template id=\"term_91_325\"><div class=\"glossary__definition\" role=\"dialog\" data-id=\"term_91_325\"><div tabindex=\"-1\"><p>a brief note that thanks the interviewers for meeting with you. It should also express your continued interest in the position, reference something specific from the conversation, and remind them of your qualifications<\/p>\n<\/div><button><span aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/span><span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Close definition<\/span><\/button><\/div><\/template><\/div>","protected":false},"author":101,"menu_order":5,"template":"","meta":{"pb_show_title":"on","pb_short_title":"","pb_subtitle":"","pb_authors":[],"pb_section_license":""},"chapter-type":[],"contributor":[],"license":[],"class_list":["post-91","chapter","type-chapter","status-publish","hentry"],"part":70,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/91","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/chapter"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/101"}],"version-history":[{"count":23,"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/91\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2761,"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/91\/revisions\/2761"}],"part":[{"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/parts\/70"}],"metadata":[{"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/91\/metadata\/"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=91"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"chapter-type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapter-type?post=91"},{"taxonomy":"contributor","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/contributor?post=91"},{"taxonomy":"license","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/license?post=91"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}