Interviews

In an interview, you may only have 30 minutes to communicate that you are the best person for the job.  Preparation and practice are key to success. 

Research the company, starting with their website.   

Polish your interview skills before the interview - strong communication skills are consistently the top quality employers seek in new graduates. 

Practice can help you avoid this situation.

Web resource links

• Preparing for Job Interviews - interviewing booklet by KU Career Services Centers
• Behavioral Interviewing - pdf handout from presentation by Sam Bruner of Raytheon
• Jobweb (published by National Association of Colleges and Employers)
• Career Journal (published by Wall Street Journal - click on Job Hunting Advice tab)
• Graduating Engineer & Computer Careers

KU resources

The Engineering Career Center has multiple print interviewing resources available free to students, such as magazines and handouts. These can be picked up in 1001 Eaton Hall or at either of the two Career Center Express locations:

Main vending machine area on the 1st floor of Eaton Hall
Southeast 1st floor entrance to Learned Hall

Books on interviewing and business etiquette can be checked out from the Career Center library at 1001 Eaton Hall.

Video Record Practice Interview

See yourself as the employer sees you.  Free service available to develop this crucial job search skill.

It only takes a few minutes to create an account and then you can conduct practice interviews 24/7. 

Three webcam options:

1. Utilize your own computer and webcam.
2. Reserve our video practice interview room at 1001 Eaton (schedule a time slot online, once you after you have created your account).
3. Check-out a webcam from the Engineering Career Center to use with your own computer. 

Mock Interview

A practice or mock interview is an excellent way to prepare for an employment interview, since a student is provided with individualized feedback on this crucial job search skill.

In a mock interview, the career advisor acts as a company recruiter and role plays an interview with a student, from the initial greeting in the Career Center waiting area to the final handshake at the end. The student will be asked questions typical of those utilized in actual interviews by employers, and then receive helpful feedback immediately after the mock interview process is complete.

Preparation tips for a mock interview

1. Read or review the resources on interviewing listed below (Behavioral Interviewing has been the most popular style of interviewing used by company recruiters in recent years)
2. Schedule an Individual Appointment, which are available on a year round basis
3. If you have questions concerning appropriate interview attire, then dress professionally for the mock interview, and the career advisor will provide feedback on this also.
4. Bring a resume and be prepared to answer as well as ask questions during the mock interview.