Mastering Interview Skills: 12 Tips for Your Soon-To-Be Senior

As juniors in college prepare to transition into their senior year, mastering interview skills becomes crucial, especially as they start facing job interviews or applying for further studies. Drawing from decades of coaching students through similar challenges, here are twelve practical tips to equip your soon-to-be senior for successful interviews:

1. Research the Company/Organization

Understanding the company’s mission, values, and recent developments shows genuine interest and preparation. It also helps tailor answers to align with the company’s goals.

2. Practice Common Interview Questions

Familiarity with typical interview questions like “Tell me about yourself” or “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” is crucial. Encourage your child to practice their responses, ensuring they are concise and relevant.

3. Develop a Strong Elevator Pitch

An elevator pitch is a brief, persuasive speech that sparks interest in themselves and their capabilities. This is useful not only for networking but also to answer open-ended interview questions effectively.

4. Understand the STAR Method

Teach your child the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to structure answers to competency-based questions. This method helps organize responses and highlight achievements effectively.

5. Mock Interviews

Conduct mock interviews with your child. This practice can ease anxiety and refine their communication skills. Rotate between formal and casual settings to prepare them for varying interview styles.

6. Dress Appropriately

First impressions matter. Discuss the importance of professional attire that aligns with the company’s culture.

7. Be Mindful of Body Language

Non-verbal communication speaks volumes. Encourage maintaining eye contact, offering a firm handshake, and sitting upright—these gestures project confidence and attentiveness.

8. Prepare Thoughtful Questions

At the end of most interviews, candidates are asked if they have questions. Preparing insightful questions can demonstrate your child’s enthusiasm for the role and their proactive nature.

9. Follow-Up with a Thank You Note

A thank-you email or note post-interview reiterates their interest in the position and appreciation for the opportunity. It's a gesture that can set them apart from other candidates.

10. Manage Stress

Discuss and practice stress management techniques, such as deep breathing or positive visualization, to help your child stay calm and focused during interviews.

11. Be Authentic

Urge your child to be themselves. Authenticity resonates well with interviewers and can make the interview feel more like a conversation than an interrogation.

12. Reflect on Each Interview

After each interview, encourage your child to reflect on what went well and what could be improved. This reflection is crucial for continuous improvement.

Action Items:

• Set Up a Preparation Schedule: Organize a timeline for preparing different aspects of the interview process.

• Create a Portfolio: If applicable, help them assemble a portfolio that showcases their work, which can be a great talking point during interviews.

• Engage Professionals for Advice: If possible, connect your child with a career coach or professionals in their field who can offer valuable insights and feedback.

Interviews can be daunting, but with the right preparation and mindset, your child can master this essential skill. The confidence gained not only aids in securing opportunities but also fosters a sense of self-assurance that they can carry into their careers.