The Job Search: Initial Interviews
Stages and topics covered during typical initial interviews

1. First Impression
Interviewer Topics
Introduction and greeting
Small talk about traffic conditions
the record of the basketball team

2. Your Record
Education
Reasons for choice of school/major
Interests
Intellectual abilities
Special or general interests
Willingness to work hard
High school record, SAT scores

Work Experience
Nature of jobs held
Why undertaken
Level of responsibility reached
Duties liked most and least
Supervisory experience
Relations with others

Activities and Interests
Role in extracurricular, athletic
community, and service activities
Personal interests

3. Your Career Goals
Type of work desired
Immediate and long-term goals
Interest in this company
Desire for further training
Geographical preferences
Health factors that might affect job performance

4. The Company
Company opportunities
Where you might fit
Current and future projects
Training programs, educational and other benefits

5. Conclusion
Further steps you should take
(application form, references)
Further steps company will take
Time of notification of decision
Cordial farewell


Interviewer Looks For

Firm handshake, eye contact

Appearance and dress appropriate to the weather

the business setting

Ease in social situations, poise


Relevance of course work to career

Grades; effort required for them
Courses enjoyed most and least
Special achievements
Reaction to teachers
Reaction to authority
Relation between ability and achievement


High energy level, vitality, enthusiasm
Seriousness of purpose
Ability to make things happen
Positive “can do” attitude
Leadership; interest in responsibility
Ability to get along with others



Diversity of interests and awareness of world
outside the college environment
Social conscience, good citizenship


Realistic knowledge of strengths/weaknesses
Preparation for employment
Knowledge of opportunities
Seriousness of purpose; career-oriented
Real interest in company
Work interest in company


Informed and relevant questions
Indications of interest in answers
Appropriate but not undue interest in salary


Candidate’s attention to information as a
sign of continued interest

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revised 01/15/04 pjf