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Getting Started Career Exposure How to Gain Experience Industries & Career Paths Pursuing a Graduate Degree Diversity & Identity Support UMD Career Courses Career Resources by College Career Advising
Avoiding Job Scams Resumes & Cover Letters Building Your Network Search Strategies Interviewing Internships Offers & Salary Negotiation Gap Year Opportunities Student Employment
Spring Career Fairs & Recruiting Events Event Calendar Workshops Industry Panels
Students Employers Alumni Faculty & Staff Parents & Families
Handshake Access Details Handshake Employer FAQs Handshake Student & Alumni FAQ Post a Job or Internship – Campus Departments
Career Center Staff Meet With Us Privacy Policy Newsletter Signup Visit

Interviewing

What happens in an interview.

An interview is a crucial step in the job application process, serving as a mutual evaluation between the candidate and the employer. Here’s a breakdown of the main points to consider during an interview:

Two-Way Dialogue: Unlike a traditional test, an interview is a conversation in which both the candidate and the employer assess compatibility and mutual benefits.

Goal Alignment: Candidates should determine if the opportunity aligns with their career goals, while employers evaluate if the candidate fits their organizational needs.

Focus on them, not just you.

When discussing your experiences and transferable skills, center on your interests and motivation and how they align with the goals and interests of the employer/organization.

Interview Methods

Interest and Motivation

  • Desire for the Role: Clearly articulate why you want this specific job with this particular employer.
  • Motivational Factors: Explain what motivates you and the journey that led you to this opportunity.
  • Value Addition: Emphasize how you can add value to the team and the organization beyond fulfilling the job requirements.

 

Employer-Centric Approach

  • Research: Demonstrate that you’ve researched the company, the industry, and the job specifics.
  • Effort and Interest: Show that you’ve tried understanding the employer’s needs, signaling genuine interest and dedication.
  • Differentiation: Highlight your unique qualifications and insights gained from your research to stand out, build connections, and identify unique aspects that distinguish you from other candidates.

Make a memorable impression

By focusing on your motivation and showing a deep understanding of the employer, you can make a strong impression and demonstrate that you are a thoughtful and well-prepared candidate

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Types of Interviews

Learn about behavioral, technical and case interviews and strategies for success.

Explore Types of Interviews
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Preparing for Interviews

Research the employer and think about how your past experiences, skills, and knowledge best fit the job.

Interview Preparation Tips
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Mock Interviews

Have an interview coming up and want to prepare? Schedule a mock interview with a career advisor.

Mock Interviews
University Career Center & The President's Promise
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