Interviewing Guide

SUNY Westchester Community College  Career Services Interview Guidelines 2017-2019 7  Ability to achieve goals  Ability to adapt  Writing, speaking and listening skills  Research skills  Ability to work as part of a team  Computer literacy Make a list of your positive qualities and practice saying them to a friend or into a recorder. Think of at least one example from your background to support each item on your list. You must be able to present your positive qualities in conversation so that what you say is convincing. Mentioning strengths without backup examples is not convincing enough. Of course, do not forget the “content skills” you are learning and refining. Be prepared to talk about foreign language proficiency, computer literacy and any knowledge/ability specific to your major that you developed while in college. Examples include specific programming languages, software knowledge, ability to write a business plan, art/design skills, read/interpret schematic diagrams, analyze financial statements, etc. Oh, and be prepared - you may be asked to take a quiz testing your level of proficiency. The bottom line is - the employer wants to know if you are the right person for the company and the job, and you want to know if this is the right job and company for you. Both parties are evaluating each other; the experience should be more like a conversation than a question and answer period. It is very important to prepare for questions you will be asked and those you can ask. Sample questions are in the Appendix. Create a LinkedIn profile that highlights your accomplishments, experience and education. Ask for endorsements from those that know you well. Good recommendations in the areas that are important to an employer will go a long way in improving your chances of getting their attention. Use the worksheets on the next two pages to get started evaluating yourself. Ask for help from the people who know you the best – family, friends, teachers, counselors, work supervisors, co-workers, clergy, etc. Make an appointment with a Westchester Community College Career Counselor to help you develop/enhance/review this area.