PRSSA at USF

6 Tips to an Interview

I’m sure you are thinking, “Yeah, yeah. I’ve heard these all before.” But instead of giving you the typical answers, I added my personal touch to the basic interview do’s and don’ts. I hope these help!

Know What You Have Done.

Nothing makes me more nervous than feeling unprepared. Recall or write down projects you have worked on, places you have volunteered and events you have helped coordinate. You might have already written these down in your resume, but the interview gives you a chance to elaborate! Don’t just give a checklist of things you have done, tell the interviewer why you did them and how you helped out. No one wants to see or hear you digging for an answer. You should have one ready when they say, “Give me an example about a time you were proactive.” (Also, know what the word proactive means. I choked on an interview because the definition left me speechless!)

Dress Professionally.

This might be a no-brainer, but for my first internship interview I felt totally underdressed. Depending on the company, a suit will work, but my favorite is a button-up polo shirt. Nothing too bright, but not plain. I prefer to wear pastels. Try spicing up your outfit with your handbag or shoes, but don't go crazy. You should know what’s appropriate.

Allow Enough Driving Time.

Map out your directions to the company address so you know where you are going. Maybe even check out the location prior to the interview. For example, I typically leave an hour early if the location is about a half hour away. This way, I can be sure to arrive ten minutes early. More than ten might makes the employer feel rushed or unprepared. Less than ten makes you look unprepared and flustered. Even worse, you could be late.

Bring a Portfolio – One They Can Keep!

Buy a 50 cent portfolio folder at Staples, they won’t care! I would encourage using page protectors so they can examine your work without holes. Also, tailor your pieces to the job. For example, I made the silly mistake of taking press releases to a marketing internship interview. Nothing in the internship description stated that I would be writing one! Make sure your portfolio promotes how you can help them. Don’t be afraid to brag, just don’t make yourself look like you are better than them. Bring extra copies of your work if you expect a group interview.

Don’t Just Do Your Research, Come with Ideas.

You need to know what the company stands for. You will feel completely ridiculous if you don’t. Incorporate your knowledge of the company into your interview answers. If the interview requires you to develop new strategies for a program or product, come with new strategies ready to rattle off! In the past, I have even brought a spiral notebook with bulleted points to follow. Don’t be scared to look down at your outline, they will more than likely be impressed.

Be interactive.

These are the simple basics. Make eye contact. Be polite. Don't be afraid to pause when you can't think of an answer right away! (Know where you are going with your answer because no one likes a rambler.) Be prepared to ask them a questions. I think that there a secret rule that employer's have to end the interview with, "Do you have any questions for us?" Don't say no! Be prepared for this.

Remember, the interview process is a learning experience. The more interviews you will go on, the more relaxed you will become, and the more prepared you will feel. I hope these tips help on your next interview.

If you have any questions, please contact me at ehauser@mail.usf.edu.

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Emma Hauser
Director of Finances
PRSSA, Walter E. Griscti Chapter