How To: Ace Your Job / Internship Interview

I recently had my first legitimate interview for my dream Pharmacy School at the University I am currently attending. I was super nervous and was lucky enough to have been exceptionally prepared from doing research on various blogs, YouTube videos, forums and of course, my school's website. I also was able to attend a mock interview session provided by the current students in the School of Pharmacy at my school. I am proud to say that I left my interview with confidence that I absolutely aced it! Of course I'm no pro at this, but after chatting with other students who are overwhelmed with how to prepare for their interviews, I have decided to dedicate this post to some tips I think are vital for being interview ready. So enough with the small talk...Let's get started!

TIP 1: Do your research

The first step in preparing for an interview is being prepared! It is extremely important to do your research on the job, school or company that you are seeking employment, acceptance or membership with. Trust me, interviewers can definitely tell when you haven't done your research.
One of the easiest ways to go about researching your potential position is by going to their website or googling them. Some important things to look for are: a description of the position you are seeking, their mission statement or goals, CEO's or presidents and community or business efforts the school (or company) is involved in. I highly suggest note-taking just for you to be able to reference back to if you can't remember everything. Overall, make sure you are quite knowledgeable about the company that will be interviewing you. You would be surprised to know how many people don't do their research prior to an interview.
Also, if you know who will be on the committee to evaluate you during your interview, it may also be helpful to do some research on the individuals who may be doing your interview.

TIP 2: Formulate questions from your research

During an interview it is vital for you to actively participate with a high level of interest. It is a good idea to take notes on your interview...not too many of course, but it is good to jot down anything your interviewer says that makes you think because you may forget once the interview is over. It is also very important to come with at least three questions to ask your interviewers. An unwritten interview rule is to never say "no" when an interviewer asks you if you have any questions. You will want to have questions that show your attention to detail and express your interest in the company or school. Ask questions with substance that require the interviewer to think on. For example, "what is one of your most rewarding moments since working with this company". This type of question is direct and allows you to get a feel for how the interviewer likes working for the company. This can in turn give you feedback on the company and insight on how your experience will be if you are selected.

TIP 3: Practice answering questions about yourself

The word "interview" can seem intimidating but essentially, an interview is just a conversation about YOU! So who is better to talk about you than you, right? That's exactly why interviews are used to select applicants. They just want to have a conversation with you to decide whether or not you are a good fit for their company. Usually, you are already qualified for the job since you received the interview. The interview can truly make or break your opportunity to be extended acceptance or membership. That's why is it vital for you to be well-prepared so you don't talk yourself out of the job or acceptance. It is also a good idea to look over your resume and make sure you are familiar with each of the listed experiences and skills you have. It is common for interviewers to pull questions based upon your past experiences or skills you have listed on your resume.

Some sites with good practice questions are:

1. http://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/outside-voices-careers/2013/03/06/5-interview-questions-you-should-always-prepare-to-answer
2. https://www.themuse.com/advice/how-to-answer-the-31-most-common-interview-questions

TIP 4: How to dress

So now you're all set! You've perfected your resume, reviewed your notes and you're ready for your interview. The only thing left to decide is what you're going to wear.

Interview attire is one of the most controversial topics when it comes to preparing for an interview. While many people dress casually or casual professional, I think the best option for interview attire is basic business professional. For women that would include: nude or complexion matching pantyhose, dark suit (navy blue, dark grey or black) preferably black, plain white blouse (with no extra detailing like frill, lace or designs), and small to medium height black leather heels. It seems so plain but it can also be appealing if you dress it up the right way by adding statement jewelry pieces like a pearl strand necklace and pearl stud earrings or even small diamonds. Also light make-up finishes everything off perfectly. Here is a picture of me in my business professional:

I'm wearing a black skirt suit from New York and Company, Heels from Nine West, white collared shirt from New York and Company and pantyhose from Burlington Coat Factory (sorry, I can't recall the brand). Also, I have a black leather portfolio to hold extra copies of my resume and business cards. I have light make up and pearl jewelry accessories. In the photo on the left, I was on my way to a career fair and the photo on the right, I was going to usher at a University hosted event. In both instances, I felt appropriately dressed and felt that I was well put together. 

For guys, I would suggest a matching dark suit (navy blue or black) preferably black with a dark, solid colored tie. While a blazer and slacks is a very nice combination for a professional atmosphere, it is simply not cordial enough for an interview. I would also suggest dark solid colored shoes to coordinate with your suit and a matching belt. It would also be good to carry some sort of portfolio or briefcase to hold miscellaneous items you may need for your interview. It is very important that for men, the suit is well fitting and tailored properly. Here are some examples of business professional for men:

 Both of these photos are examples of well tailored and well fitting professional suits for men. As you can see, both men are wearing dark ties with plain white collared shirts and matching shoes.

Summing it all up

Overall, less is more when it comes to dressing for an interview...not literally of course, but the goal is to look polished without overdoing it. Makeup and accessories should be simple and understated yet contribute to the neat and groomed conservative look. Hair should be neat and simple for women and neatly trimmed for men.
The interview is about being prepared, knowledgeable and dressing for the job you want. The entire interview process can seem overbearing when you're micro-analyzing things that aren't important. It makes things much simpler when you make a plan for yourself and take things step-by-step. I had a great interview experience and if you follow or at least take into consideration the tips above I know your interview will be successful! If you have any questions, feel free to comment and ask away or send me a direct message for more tips and let me know how your interview experience goes!

Also, check back for more helpful tips, how to's and much more!

Until next time,

- BigHairBrainiac