The campus chapter of NSBE (thank you NSBE!) recently hosted a panel of recruiters to share advice about interviewing. The five panel members had lots of noteworthy tips. I've included some here.
You cannot be too prepared. This means research the company. Review their website. Do a google search. Ask the people in your network what they know about the organization.
Come with your own questions to ask. For good examples, look in our "Ace the Interview" booklet, page 3. Favorites of panel members included "What qualifications will the successful candidate possess?", "What are some of the challenges this department/organization faces?", and "What is your timeline for filling this position?"
Do not. . .I repeat. . .do not ask about salary. The employer will bring up salary at the appropriate time. It's important to know that salaries for new hires generally don't offer much (if any) negotiating room. Negotiating salary is for later in your career.
Expect behavior based questions. An example might be "Describe the most frustrating group project you've been involved in." You can't wing it with these questions. Better take another look at that "Ace the Interview" book -- pages 10 through 12.
Practice. Practice with your roommate. Practice with a friend. Practice with Career Services! Come by 203 Grace Wilkie or call 978-3435 to schedule a mock interview. Don't wait until two days before you have an interview -- call today.
~jan
