Nonacademic Interviewing
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An employment interview is an exchange of information between an organization and a potential employee. Employers use the interview as a chance to assess whether you are qualified for the available position. They also assess such personal characteristics as your interest in the job, your enthusiasm and commitment to your career goals, and your ability to get along with others and fit into the culture of the organization. You, as the potential employee, must use this opportunity to gather information in order to decide whether or not to accept an offer is one is made. Throughout the interview process, you play a major role in keeping the conversation flowing and interesting. You must be able to make your résumé come alive and highlight your strengths in a short period of time.
Graduate Student Interviewing
Graduate students entering the job market often compete with younger candidates for entry-level positions. Older candidates with advanced degrees have a distinct advantage because they have greater maturity, experience, and more highly sophisticated skills. Graduate students should beware, however, that it is important to seem flexible, since most organizations want entry-level employees whom they can train and mold. Graduate students should also be cautious not to overuse academic vocabulary, jargon, or phrases that will not be understood by interviewers.
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