Preparing for Your Interview

The interview is a critical part of the selection process for employment, internships, and many graduate and professional programs and therefore warrants serious thought and preparation. Interviewers nearly always know when a candidate has taken the time to prepare for the interview, rather than relying on personal charm and the ability to talk to make an impression.

The purpose of the interview is to explore a candidate’s interests and qualifications beyond what is provided within the application. But remember, the interview is a two-way process; while the interviewer’s goal is to find the best candidate, the interview is also an opportunity for the candidate to gain insight into the position and organization. Both parties should approach the interview as a conversation and both give and receive information during an interview.

The Career Development Center has several resources to help you learn about and prepare for your interviews:

• The Effective Interviewing Quick Reference Guide, in PDF format, will walk you through the interview process and show you ways to prepare for your big day. Includes sample questions that you may be asked, sample questions you may want to ask, and illegal questions.
• OptimalInterview, part of the OptimalResume package, allows you to practice your skills by responding to videotaped interviewers asking challenging questions. Look for " Interview Prep" in the Skills Center. Every matriculated BU student has access to an account. Alumni may access the system for a small fee.
• The CDC coordinates mock/practice interviews each semester with either employers and/or alumni volunteers. Participating in such opportunities is highly recommended by employers! Check the CDC homepage and the Program Calendar for dates and details.

In addition, CDC periodically offers programs to provide information and tips on interviewing skills. Check the CDC program calendar for a complete list of half-hour Express Programs and full-length workshops. CDC also houses many interviewing skills resources in our Career Resource Library. Visit the CDC in LSG 500 to check out the resources! We have also collected tips on interviewing success from employers and Binghamton graduates.

Additional helpful interviewing skills resources:
General Questions You Might Be Asked with Guides for Answering, California State University, Chico
Monster.com's virtual interview
What's Your Greatest Weakness? How to answer everyone's least favorite interview question by Jennifer Burns

Liberal Arts and Sciences
Arts & Sciences sample questions

Engineering and Applied Sciences
Engineering and Applied Science Students sample questions
Potential Interview Questions for Engineering Majors

Nursing
Sample Interview Questions for Nursing Students

Business
Interviewing Guide for Business Students
Potential Interview Questions for Business Majors
5 Common Investment Banking Interview Questions That Most People Screw Up

Art and Design
Potential Interview Questions for Art & Design Majors

Education
Potential Interview Questions for Education Majors