Interview Types & Tips

Behavioral Interviewing Model

Tell me about a time when…
Please describe how you handled…
Give an example of…

Behavioral-based interview questions are perhaps some of the more challenging questions you’ll encounter in an interview. They are based on the theory that past experiences are a better indicator of future behavior rather than hypothetical situations. Rather than an employer asking you how you would handle certain situations, they will ask you how you did handle situations. Remember, they are looking for specific examples. If you can’t immediately think of an answer to a question, do NOT answer it “Well, I would…”. Instead, say something like “Let me think a moment so I can give you a specific example. A seasoned recruiter does not mind silence, and s/he will be relieved to know that you are heading in the right direction!

To help you give the best answer, think of giving your example (or telling your story) using STAR: Situation, Task, Action, Result.

Telephone and Video Interviewing

Do These Things Ahead of Time:

1. Turn off distractions. Have your phone in a quiet room – away from radio, television, family, roommates, or anything else that may make noise or take attention away from your task.
2. Gather your tools by the phone.
   • Resume
   • Pen and paper to jot the interviewer(s) down immediately and to take notes during the interview
   • Company research (with relevant information highlighted)
   • Questions to ask about company and position
   • A loosely written outline of points to make or items to cover as you talk about the position
   • Comfort items: tissues, a glass of water

Do These Things at the Interview Time:

1. If the employer sets up an appointment in advance, dress the part for the interview. Experts say if you’re dressed in a professional manner, you’ll speak that way.
2. If the employer calls and wants to do the interview right away (instead of setting up an appointment), excuse yourself politely and offer to call back in five minutes. This will give you time to make the psychological switch from whatever you were doing to your professional demeanor.
3. If you have call waiting, turn it off.
4. If the employer says s/he will call you at a specific time and doesn’t, wait 10 minutes and call him/her. There may have been confusion who was calling whom, or it could be a deliberate test on the employer’s part to see if you will be proactive!
5. Stand up to talk. Your position affects the quality of your voice. If you are sitting down relaxing, you don’t project the same readiness and intensity as you do if you stand up.
6. Talk only when necessary. Since you lack the visual cues of body language to assess whether you’ve said enough, mark the end of your response with a question, such as “Would you like more details of my experience as an intern with XYZ Company?”
7. Let the employer end the interview. Then you should say “Thank you for your time,” and reiterate your interest in the position.

If you perform well on the telephone, you’ll probably be invited to interview with a hiring manager on site.

On-Camera Tips:

1. Dress as you would for an in-person interview.
2. Have equipment (computer, etc.) set up early so you can get comfortable.
3. Adjust your chair so you can sit eye-level with the camera.
4. Check your posture. Don’t slouch or lean sideways.
5. Use note cards or sticky notes that can’t be seen on camera to remind yourself of points you would like to make.
6. See # 6 and #7 above.

No matter what kind of interview you do – telephone, video, or in-person – follow up with a thankyou note to each of the people you have talked to.