Cox Career Management Center

Job Interviews

The interview is your chance to show an employer what he/she will get if you're hired. That's why it is essential to be well prepared. Know yourself, the industry and the employer. Pay attention to the details like personal appearance, punctuality and protocol.

8 Rules to Remember

Know your key strengths.
Prepare three or more success stories.
Quantify and give evidence of results.
Show how you will add value.
Research the company thoroughly.
Ask questions that show you have done the research.
Maintain the flow of conversation.
Keep your responses clear and concise.

Questions You Can Count On:

Tell me about yourself.
Why did you choose SMU?
Why did you choose (your major)?
Why do you want to work for us?
Why do you want this job?
Why should we hire you?

Expect to hear one or more of these in your interview. Plan ahead. Think through how you will respond. Write out the key points. Don't memorize your answer but do practice it until you can give a natural response that is clear and concise.

Use the STAR Formula

To answer behavioral questions (Tell me about a time…, Give me an example when…., etc.), use the STAR formula to tell your story.

S=Situation (set the stage)
T=Task (your responsibilities)
A= Actions (what did you do)
R=Results (what did you accomplish or achieve)

Download a copy of the STAR worksheet. (PDF)

Practice. Practice. Practice.

Role play an interview at Be My Interviewer. Visit www.bemyinterviewer.com