Interview Guide

Typically held on site (at the employer, on campus, etc.), in-person interviews allow you to connect face-to-face. First impressions, body language, and professional dress are especially important here.

Often used as a first screening step, phone interviews focus on your verbal communication skills. Since you will not be able to pick up on any visual cues from your interviewer, speaking clearly and listening closely is key.

These are commonly used as a first screening step for internships and jobs, but may be used exclusively for hybrid or remote work environments. Make sure your background is tidy, your internet is stable, and you're dressed professionally, even if you're at home.

There are two types of video interviews: live and recorded. Live interviews involve speaking with an interviewer in real time, while recorded interviews require you to submit answers to pre-set questions for later review by the interviewer or hiring committee.

In a panel interview, you'll speak with multiple interviewers at once, in-person or virtually. It's important to engage and connect with each interviewer and to be prepared to answer questions from different perspectives.

In a group interview, you will be one of several candidates being interviewed together. The interviewers are assessing communication, teamwork, and leadership potential. You’ll want to participate actively, be inclusive of other candidates, and avoid dominating the conversation.

• Interviewers want to see that you’ve done your homework. Research the organization’s mission, values, recent projects, and relevant information so you can explain why you're genuinely interested in them.
• For graduate or health professional school interviews, you’ll want to show how you are a good fit for the school and also share how the school is a good fit for you. Review the school’s mission statement and research their website for any additional information about their program that stands out to you. What aspects of the school stand out to you? How will they help you to be successful as a student? How will they uniquely prepare you for your career?

• Every interview question is an opportunity to connect your background to this specific role. Identify where your skills, experiences, and interests align with the position/role you’re applying for. For job applications, review the job description and note where you see alignment with your experiences. 

• Be prepared to go into detail about anything on your resume. Some interviewers may ask specific questions about your experiences, so be ready to explain what you did, why it mattered, and what you learned. Confidently answering interview questions shows a high level of preparation and self-awareness.
• Brainstorm impactful experiences and stories that you can share, especially for behavioral interview questions. Your stories will help create a stronger connection with the interviewer and provide them with evidence of your skills, qualities, and competencies. 

• Asking thoughtful questions shows that you’re serious, curious, and actively evaluating whether the position, organization, or program is a good fit for you. Don’t skip this step – it can leave a positive, lasting impression.

• Most interviews include familiar questions, such as “Tell me about yourself” or “What’s your greatest strength?” Preparing and practicing responses helps you speak with clarity and confidence rather than thinking on the spot.
• See practice interview questions

• Strengthen your interview answers by highlighting career readiness competencies employers value, such as communication, teamwork, and critical thinking.
• In your response, include what you did and how you demonstrated a key competency or skill in the process. For example, when describing a research experience, explain how you facilitated communication among team members or overcame challenges and barriers during a project.
• This will show the interviewer how your experience is directly tied to the competencies they are seeking.

• Behavioral questions ask you to describe how you've handled situations in the past. These types of questions usually begin with “Tell me about a time when…” or “Describe an experience when…”
• The STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) gives your answers structure and impact by focusing on what you did and what came of it.

• Speaking your answers out loud will help you gain confidence, identify areas to improve, and make you feel more natural on interview day.
• Schedule a mock interview online, or contact CBS Student Services at 612-624-9717 or [email protected]. 

• Your appearance is part of your first impression. Choose clean, professional clothing that matches the company’s culture. When unsure, it’s better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.
• How to dress for a job interview (article)

• For virtual interviews, test your audio, camera, and internet connection. Make sure you have a link for the interview and/or instructions for logging in.
• Remember to silence any notifications on your phone and computer to avoid distractions.

• For an in-person interview, know exactly where you are going and how long it will take to get there. Double check the details – street address, building name, room number, and check-in location.
• Plan to arrive about 10-15 minutes early and build in buffer time for unforeseen delays. 

• Have extra copies of your resume, a list of references (if requested), and a notebook and pen. Bring along your list of prepared questions to ask at the end of the interview. Many people put all of these items in a single portfolio or folder to stay organized.
• For virtual interviews, keep these items nearby.

Your first few minutes set the tone for the entire interview. Arrive or log on early, maintain open body language, and make eye contact to show you're prepared and engaged. A warm, professional greeting helps establish rapport and makes a strong first impression.

Focus on answering clearly and directly, avoiding rambling. Interviewers appreciate responses that are thoughtful yet concise. 

Use examples that highlight your strengths and demonstrate how you've solved problems or contributed in your past roles. With each example, remember to include what you’ve learned, how you’ve grown, and/or new perspectives you have gained.

Most people share positive examples, but negative experiences can be used too. However, don’t leave the interviewer in a negative headspace – balance your example by sharing what you’ve learned and how you’ve grown as a person. 

Interviewers may ask about gaps in experience, perceived weaknesses, or skills you’re still developing. A skill gap or weakness does not disqualify you, but the interviewer may be interested in determining how you will overcome initial challenges in the position. Be honest, brief, and then pivot to what you’ve learned and how you’re improving. Framing these moments as growth opportunities shows maturity and a forward-thinking mindset.

Typically, you will have a few minutes to ask your own questions at the end of the interview. Prepare your questions ahead of time – write them down and bring them with you to the interview. 

Thoughtful, specific questions show you've done your research on the organization and understand the position. Your questions also allow you to assess whether the organization aligns with your values and goals.

Make sure to ask about next steps in the interview process if the interviewer doesn’t address this.

Sample interview questions

Sending a thank you note via email within 24 hours shows professionalism and appreciation. Keep it brief (one or two paragraphs), express gratitude, and reinforce your interest in the role. A thoughtful note can leave a lasting and positive impression. 

Sample thank you note

Every interview is a learning experience! A self review of the entire interview process builds confidence and helps strengthen your foundation for future interviews.

Immediately after the interview, write down the questions you were asked and how you responded while it’s still fresh. 

• What went well?
• What could you improve on for next time?

Reflect on what you learned during the interview process.

• What did you think of the position and/or team?
• What did you think of the physical environment you will be spending time in?
• How has your perception of the organization changed (better or worse) after the interview? 

If you haven’t heard back within the expected timeline, it’s appropriate to send a polite follow-up email. Keep your message respectful and concise and reaffirm your interest without pressuring the employer. Timing and tone matter! Follow-ups should feel professional, not pushy.

It’s not uncommon to experience silence after an interview. If a follow-up doesn’t receive a response, try not to take it personally. Hiring timelines vary, and silence doesn’t always mean rejection. Stay proactive by continuing your search and applying to other opportunities.

If you’re the first in your family to pursue higher education, your perspectives are a strength that can be shared during the application and interview process. Consider highlighting your adaptability, determination, and the unique experiences that shape your approach to learning and problem solving. Employers value resilience and initiative, qualities you may have strengthened during your time at the University.

You have the right to request accommodations for an interview if needed. Doing so demonstrates self-advocacy and professionalism. Whether it’s extended time, accessible locations, or assistive technology, reach out to the recruiter or HR contact early. Their responsiveness to your accommodation needs will also reveal how the organization may (or may not) support your needs in the future.

You are not required to disclose a health condition or disability during the application process or interview. You will, however, need to make known your needs for accommodation/adjustment resulting from a health condition or disability.

Consider reaching out to a career coach for consultation on your situation. If you are a current UMN student, you may also consult with the Disability Resource Center.

If you experience bias or discrimination at any point in the interview process, trust your instincts and know that you have options. Document what happened as soon as possible, noting dates, times, and details. Consider reaching out to a career coach for consultation on your options. 

Review a sampling of Prohibited and Acceptable Interview Questions from the Office of Human Resources at the University of Minnesota.

You can also review your legal rights and reporting options to determine your next steps. As a job applicant, the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces federal laws that protect you from discrimination. 

According to the EEOC, “It is illegal for an employer to discriminate against a job applicant because of his or her race, color, religion, sex (including transgender status, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information. For example, an employer may not refuse to give employment applications to people of a certain race. An employer may not base hiring decisions on stereotypes and assumptions about a person's race, color, religion, sex (including transgender status, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information.”

You can file a charge of employment discrimination through the EEOC.