Interview Survival Guide

Written by Natalie Kientzy

Interview Survival Guide 

Can you bring iced coffee to an interview? How can you keep your nerves from showing? What questions are YOU supposed to ask anyway? 

Whether you’re joining a student organization, applying for internships or looking to secure one of those coveted post-grad positions, interviews are inevitable. Let me be the first to admit opening a calendar invite from a hiring manager can be just as intimidating as it is exciting. 

If you have an interview coming up, it’s your lucky day. I’ve compiled the answers to some frequently and recently asked interview questions, so you can focus on putting your best foot forward. 

What am I supposed to wear? 

Though it may be cliché, when you look good, you feel good. Your outfit is one of your first impressions, so it’s smart to put some thought toward what you’ll wear.

Because every organization is different, there’s no single right answer as to what to wear. Do some research to get a feel for the company’s culture. A corporate position may require a suit or blazer, while a more casual or creative workplace may call for less formality. 

When in doubt, business professional or business casual are the best bet. Think wrinkle-free, well-tailored trousers, skirts and jackets paired with button-up shirts or blouses. Most importantly wear something you feel comfortable and confident in. If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out this article about nailing corporate fashion. 

What questions should I ask? 

Here’s a real insider tip: an interview isn’t just about a company or organization to decide if they want you, it’s also your chance to decide if the role is the right fit.

There’s no magic list of questions you have to ask. Think about what you want to know about the role, team and company. You might ask about what a typical day looks like, how the team collaborates, what success looks like in the position or what the interviewer enjoys most about working there. Not only will this allow you to learn more about what to expect if you accept the position, but it will also show the interviewer than you have genuine interest. 

Come prepared with a few questions, but don’t feel like you need to ask every single one. A thoughtful follow-up to something discussed during the interview can be just as valuable as a question you prepared beforehand.

How do I calm my nerves? 

First, accept that you’re probably going to be a little bit nervous. And that’s okay! The goal isn’t to eliminate your nerves, just control them so you can run the show. 

What’s the best way to do this? Come prepared. Research the company and the job description, and think about work, class or extracurricular experience you can tie to their needs. Practice answering commonly asked interview questions out loud. Even if you feel a little silly talking to yourself, it’s easier to organize your thoughts when you can hear them! 

Before your interview, give yourself some spare time to get into the zone. Maybe consider playing your favorite song or testing out some breathing exercises. 

What should (and shouldn’t) I bring? 

For an in-person interview, come equipped with a few essentials: 

• A notebook and pen: Taking notes can be helpful, but it never hurts to check in with the interviewer to make sure it’s okay. 

• Copies of your resume: You may not need them, but it’s better to have them on hand and not use them than the other way around! 

• Work samples or portfolio: If you have work relevant to the position you’d like to show off, it never hurts to bring it along. 

• Water: You’ll probably be doing a lot of talking, so it never hurts to have a sip or two nearby. 

And the iced coffee? I’d save it for a treat afterward. Caffeine can make nervous jitters feel even stronger, and the last thing you need is to worry about spilling it all over your outfit five minutes before you walk in. 

When your interview is virtual, be sure you have headphones and a charged device. Headphones are helpful in preventing audio feedback and make it easier to hear your interviewer, especially if you’re joining from a shared space.

What time should I show up? 

For an in-person interview, aim to arrive in the area about 10–15 minutes early. That gives you time to find the building, navigate parking, use the bathroom and collect yourself without putting pressure on your interviewer to meet with you early.

For a virtual interview, log on about 5–10 minutes beforehand to make sure all your technology is working. 

Whatever you do, don’t be late. Give yourself more time than you think you’ll need. 

What happens next? 

Now comes the worst part, suspense! After leaving, it is polite to send a thank you email or note to your interviewer. It doesn’t have to be a five-page letter, just let them know you appreciate their time, mention something specific you took away from the conversation and reinforce your interest in the role. 

If you were given a timeline for when you may hear back, keep it in mind. If the given date passes without an update, you can always send a thoughtful follow-up. 

While you’re waiting, try not to frantically refresh your inbox too much… you did the hard part, and you should be proud of yourself! 

Final thoughts

I hope this post answered some of your top interview questions! If I can leave you with one final piece of advice, remember that your worth is never determined by the outcome of an interview. If you show up and give it your all, you’re guaranteed to walk away with at least a lesson or two for next time.