To ensure you perform the best you can in an interview setting, there are certain steps you can take to help yourself to stand out from the other candidates being interviewed. Alpha Kappa Psi conducts and participates in semesterly mock interviews, so we have definitely learned a tip or two over the years, and we are happy to share a few of them below!

• Research the position, company, and even industry before walking into your interview.
• Prepare your elevator pitch, as well as potential answers to common behavioral questions (e.g. "Tell me about a time you overcame a problem with a creative solution").
  • Try practicing these in the mirror - it can help you gain confidence in yourself as well as improve body language when it comes time for the real deal!
• Answer all questions using the STAR (situation, task, action, result) Method.
  • Be able to tie your answers back into previous experiences, accomplishments, and skills.
  • Make sure to keep answers concise, avoiding tangents and rambling.
• Bring a notebook, pen/pencil, and copies of your resume.
  • Be prepared to take quick notes if necessary during the interview.
    • Padfolios are always a great idea!
  • Print your resumes on proper resume paper.
• Plan your day so that you can arrive 10-15 minutes prior to the set interview start time - remember: your interview starts the second you walk in the door, and early is always better than late!
• Prepare questions ahead of time to ask your interviewer at the end; we recommend 3 good questions.
• Send a "thank you" card, letter, or email to your interviewer within 48 hours of the interview ending.
  • Personalize it with details of your conversation if possible to show that you really cared for the interaction and appreciate their time.

With the above tips & tricks, you should feel a lot more prepared and confident heading into your next interview! Best of luck in your job or internship search, and feel free to reach out on our social media with any further questions we can answer.