How-To-Interview 101

By Emily Christian, Arts & Entertainment Editor

Kiss those nervous butterflies goodbye with these 5 simple tips to prepare you for any interview.

Present Good Nonverbal Communication

A smile and a handshake goes a long way for making a good first impression.
A smile and a handshake goes a long way for making a good first impression.

There are no second chances for making a good first impression, so it is important to follow proper etiquette. Standing straight, making eye contact, and having a firm handshake will demonstrate confidence, as well as create a good image of yourself.

Dress Accordingly

Clothes and colors go hand in hand when finding an outfit for an interview. Simplistic colors, like black,

A simple blouse and sandals is a cute and simple outfit for an interview.
A simple blouse and sandals is a cute and simple outfit for an interview.

white and neutrals, make for a clean and sophisticated look. Wearing a plain outfit allows you to accessorize with brighter colors, expressing your true personality. Depending on the job or type of interview, outfits will vary. However, a suit for a guy or a skirt and blouse for a girl can be worn for almost any occasion. If there is any concern about what to wear, it is always okay for you to contact the business and ask what is appropriate. It is better to be safe than sorry.

Use Appropriate Language

There is nothing your soon-to-be boss listens for more than proper grammar. You want to sound educated and not be thought as of unintelligent. Prepare what you are going to say before the interview. Maybe think of practice questions and answers. However, using large words can be a bit too much if they don’t flow. Using a large word with the wrong context is seen as bad as using improper grammar. Simple greetings, such as “Hello” when the interview starts, and “Thank you for your time” when the interview ends, will also exhibit manners and politeness.  

Don’t Be Cocky

Being confident  is a great skill to have. However, during an interview, it is a must to not come off as over-confident and arrogant. Interviewers look to evaluate skills and qualifications, as well as whether or not you are capable of working on a team. Acting as though you’re the best for the job implies the fact that you think you are better off working on your own. Rarely anyone can be successful without some help from others in their lifetime. So, discussing collaboration and teamwork shows that you are ready to mesh into the workplace with other people.

What To Bring

  • Resume- It demonstrates organization and can work as a cheat sheet when discussing yourself.
  • References- If the interview goes well, you will save the employer a step by having a list in advance.
  • Questions you plan to ask- This will give you more insight into the position that you are seeking.
  • Paper and pen to take notes- This shows that you are prepared, responsible, and are listening to
    This is an example resume that you would bring to an interview.
    This is an example resume that you would bring to an interview.

    what the interviewer is saying.