by Cachet B. Prescott, MA, MSCCN Training & Development Volunteer

You’ve submitted what seems like hundreds of cover letters and resumes for various jobs, and FINALLY, you get the long awaited phone call. You’ve got an interview! Now, it’s time to prepare to razzle and dazzle your future boss…

Interview Questions

No matter how many times you have gone through the often dreaded interview process, you can never practice answering potential interview questions enough. Practice really and truly does make perfect and can mean the difference between you sounding like the super-prepared professional that you are or the blubbering idiot that no one wants to hire. Here are some tips for preparing for your interview questions:

• Research potential interview questions. The sky is the limit when it comes to what your interviewer(s) may possibly ask you. Interview questions range from the “getting to know you” to the behavioral to the industry- or position-specific sorts. You’ve got to be prepared for anything. First, you should either invest in interview books or use the FREE handy-dandy Internet. For example, when interviewing for my current position as a Campus Center Director, I searched for "interview questions for campus center directors, directors, or education". When asked a question about your personal weaknesses or areas for improvement, choose something that is not a detrimental weakness (i.e. something that will make you look like the wrong choice for the job) and put a positive spin on it. Do not give them ammo or reason not to hire you!
• Prepare your answers for the questions that you anticipate being asked. Write your answers down and rehearse the interview. You can practice alone or with someone and get feedback on your answers. This eliminates you having to think about your answers when the employer asks you a question; your thoughts and responses will flow with ease because you have prepared for it.
• Do your research! Research each and every company that you plan to apply to and ultimately interview with. Be prepared to answer any questions related to the company. Also, be able to use that information in other questions that they may ask you.