7 tips for preparing for an interview

Not sure how to discuss your qualifications when preparing for an interview? Learn what to expect during an interview with these tips from ORISE recruiters.

7 tips for preparing for an interview

1. If your interview is in person, plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early to catch your breath and allow time to find parking, check in, and find the interview room. If you are not familiar with the area, use mapping services to find a good route and account for traffic. If your interview is virtual, find a quiet space and give yourself 15 minutes to setup your laptop and video meeting application to ensure there won’t be any interruptions before or during the interview. Make sure that you have checked your connection and you know how to contact the interviewer if there is an issue.
2. Dress for success. If the interviewer provides a suggested dress code, be sure to follow it. Whether you’re chatting with representatives in person or on a video call, wearing an outfit that you are comfortable in and aligns with the role you are seeking can boost your confidence. Feeling polished and prepared will help you leave a strong and positive impression on representatives. Plan your outfit in advance and consider having a backup prepared in case of unexpected stains, tears, or other wardrobe malfunctions. Need a few examples? Look online or speak with your career center at your academic institution for tips.
3. If in person, bring hard copies of your resume/CV, samples of relevant projects, references, a notepad, and a pen. Keep your documents fresh and neat in a professional portfolio, folder, or carrying case. For virtual connections, be prepared to share during your interview or provide links to an online portfolio or website.
4. Silence any electronic devices before the interview starts. If virtual, be sure that you have eliminated distractions as much as possible (e.g., roommates, pets, traffic, music, etc.).
5. For in person interviews, maintain eye contact as you introduce yourself. Be polite and professional with everyone you interact with—you are in the interview as soon as you arrive at the facility. If virtual, make sure that your camera and sound are working, and your background is professional. Practice before the call to check how you will appear on screen and be sure you are looking into the camera (rather than away).  And remember your body language—be aware of what you are communicating through your posture and stance.
6. Ask thoughtful questions when you are offered a chance. Prepare a few in advance and add questions using the information provided during the interview. Ask about things that aren’t available on the company’s website or detailed in the posting (e.g., what skills will you learn during the project, why does the interviewer enjoy working there, what are some immediate priorities for the role, what qualities have successful interns/fellows or employees had that have been in this role, describe a typical day, etc.). This shows that you have done your research and demonstrates interest and excitement about the opportunity.
7. Close by sincerely expressing your passion for the role and thank them for their time. You always want to end with a strong final impression. Additionally, crafting a thank you email to send within one to two business days is a beneficial and polite way to show your enthusiasm.  

Use your interview to elaborate on your education, experience, and skills, and how they fit into what the interviewer is looking for and don’t forget to show your passion. Let the interviewer know why you are interested and what you can add to the organization now and in the future. And remember that you are also making a valuable connection. Even if the interview doesn’t land this role, they may reach out when another opportunity becomes available or refer you to others in the organization.

• Research the federal agency or department, national lab, scientific facility, or the employer. What is their mission, STEM areas, goals and expectations? Are they a fit for you? Do they have any interesting initiatives or research areas you’d like to support?
• Self-reflect and know what you'd like to say about your skills and experiences. Review the opportunity you applied for and/or look at open postings that you may be interested in applying to at the organization. The key words listed are “clues” (description, qualifications, skill sets, experience, etc.) that can help you define what you should plan to discuss during the interview to illustrate how you are a “fit” for the role. Prepare examples of how you’ve demonstrated skills that are highly relevant to the position in question. Use approximately 30-second sound bites that you can use to expand on your answer. The STAR method—Situation, Task, Action, and Result—is one way to develop your response and tailor your answers to show relevance to the role and organization.
• Practice! Find resources online from reputable sources about mock interview questions or setup a mock interview with your school’s career services office if available. Practice with friends reading the questions and listening to your answers.

Types of interview questions

There are a variety of types of interview questions. Open-ended questions give you the opportunity to speak about whatever comes to mind (e.g., "What interests you about this job?"). Other examples are open-ended, behavior-focused questions (e.g., "When was a time that you had to handle a disagreement with your supervisor? How did you handle it?”), and more technical questions, puzzle questions, creativity questions (e.g., “If you were a tree, what kind would you be?”) or case studies.

Most interviewers will ask you to tell them about yourself; this is your opportunity to “brag” on your relevant accomplishments while also giving a quick synopsis of your background. Prepare a 30-second elevator pitch before your interview to answer this question efficiently. An effective  pitch will include an introduction (e.g., name, school, major or degree), a summary of what you do (e.g., your background including experience), what you want/are interested in (e.g., interview, being a part of the mission, research opportunity, etc.,) and why your strengths/interests are relevant (e.g., skills, leadership, goals, what makes you unique, etc.)ending with a “call to action” (e.g., “Can you tell me more about…?”). It should be brief (75 to 100 words), interesting, personalized, and confident.

How do you prepare for interview questions? Find resources online with common questions and example answers and think about how you might answer. Even if you’re asked a different question than what you’ve practiced, the self-reflection and answer-crafting you’ve done will help in preparing a response.

For case studies and technical questions, most don’t have a “right” answer. Even if  presented as a skills-based exam, the review of your answers will likely focus on your thought process while stressed and/or how you respond with incomplete information. If  offered a note sheet, jot down thoughts as they come to you. Listen carefully to the questions and re-read them if they’re presented in text. Ask clarifying questions if needed. Focus on key, broad issues first, then get more specific with your answer. If you can, suggest specific steps rather than just theory. Especially for case studies, be conscious of resources (e.g., budget, capital, or personnel) needed for the answer and don’t be afraid to ask about them as a follow-up question. For puzzle or brain-teaser questions, the interviewer is looking for problem-solving and logical thinking skills. The idea answers for all show how/if you would get to a solution and your ability to explain your reasoning.  

Preparing for an interview requires some research, planning, and practice, but it is worth the time it takes to successfully demonstrate your interests, qualifications, and passion to land the perfect opportunity. Good luck!