This is probably the scariest part for you, and that’s completely normal. Interviews are nerve-wracking, even if you’ve done it a dozen times. The good news is you can go in well-prepared.

In a post-pandemic world, it’s become more common for interviews to be on video chat. We’ve broken down the interview process into steps so that you can be prepared for any scenario!

Before the Interview

Do your research well in advance, and don’t procrastinate preparing. Many employers are on Glassdoor. There you can find reviews from past employees, salaries, benefits the company provides, and even the most common interview questions so you can know exactly what they may ask you.

Review the job description again, and prepare key points you want the employer to know about you. The most common interview questions? “Why did you choose this company?” and “What makes you a good fit for the position?” Be prepared to answer them, every time.

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In-person: Proofread your resume and cover letter. Then, have someone else proofread, to make sure you haven’t missed anything! Type a list of references, with at least one professional reference. This can include teachers, religious leaders, coaches, former coworkers or employers. Print your documents out if at all possible to bring to the interview.

Online: Proofread your resume and cover letter, and have someone else proofread as well — just as you would in person! Have references ready, including one professional reference. This can include teachers, religious leaders, coaches, former coworkers and employers. E-mail the documents to the hiring manager and/or interviewer at least 24 hours in advance.

Arriving at the Interview

In-person: It’s important to treat the entire time as if you are being interviewed. This means from the time you pull into the parking lot or step off the bus, treat others with kindness and present yourself confidently and professionally. Arrive with time to spare. There was once a person who cut off someone in the parking lot or was disrespectful to the front desk worker — and that someone ended up being the hiring manager. Ouch.

Online: Take all of the in-person advice above! Treat your online interview as you would any other. Even if you are attending from your couch, it’s important to dress professionally from the bottom to the top. Don’t be the person who stands up without thinking and shows their pajamas underneath your business jacket! Arrive with time to spare.

Entering the Interview Room

In-person: Present yourself confidently, with a smile on your face. Practice a firm handshake. Don’t sit down until after you have shaken hands. You can follow the example video to keep yourself looking professional while sitting. Tell the interviewer(s) thank you for taking the time to meet with you.

Online: Smile! Tell the interviewer(s) thank you for taking the time meet with you. Make sure your background looks clean and professional.

During the Interview

Listen carefully to the interviewer, and do your best to answer their questions honestly and accurately. Avoid filler words (a list of examples and how to avoid them can be found here). Maintain eye contact throughout the interview. Always focus on the positives. Even if you didn’t like your last employer or left on a sour note, it doesn’t give a good impression to a possible employer to talk badly about others. You can be honest without being disrespectful!

In-person: Keep your body language professional and positive throughout the interview. Observe your surroundings. Does the company culture seem like a good fit for you? Do your possible coworkers seem happy to be working there? Is your interviewer and/or potential manager friendly, respectful, and prepared? Did your interviewer arrive on time?

Online: Keep your body language professional and positive throughout the interview. Is your interviewer and/or potential manager friendly, respectful, and prepared? Did your interviewer arrive on time?

After the Interview

Finish strong! 99% of the time, an interviewer will ask if you have any questions at the end of the interview. This is a crucial time to make your mark. Come prepared with at least two questions. Here are two questions we’ve found leave a powerful impression:

“What is one of the biggest lessons you’ve learned while working at this company?”

“What is the best thing about working for this company, and would you mind telling me something that can be a struggle while working for this company?” OR “What is a positive impact this company has had on you? Have there been any negatives about working here?”

In-person: When you stand, firmly shake the hand of your interviewer(s). Thank them for their time again.

Online: Thank the interviewer for their time, and send any follow-up the interviewer has requested (references, portfolios, etc.).

Send a thank-you within 24 hours after your interview.

Write down your personal evaluation of the interview in the style of Rose, Bud, and Thorn:

Rose- Something that went well and that you appreciated/liked about the company.

Bud- What gives you motivation after the interview? Do you feel hopeful? What are three positive things you can take to your next interview?

Thorn: What are two things that could have gone better? Were there any questions you felt you could have been more prepared for? How can you improve before your next interview?

If you haven’t heard from your employer within one to two weeks, send a follow-up e-mail. Thank them again for their time, reaffirm your interest in the position, and let them know you are happy to answer any further questions they may have.

Relax!!! You did your best, and that is what matters the most. If you didn’t feel okay with the outcome, know you have experience moving forward, and can do even better at the next interview!