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Image by Natalia Lebedeva

Interview, AHH! Probably the scariest part of the job search process because you have to talk about your self the entire time. You've got this, you talk to people all day at work. Take this as a time to brag a little bit about all the amazing things you have done, and show those employers exactly why you are clearly the best choice. This is also the time to separate yourself from all the other applicants. What makes you different and a more desirable applicant? That confidence and sparkling personality!

To help you get acquainted with the interview process, all UNR students have access to an interview prep website called Big Interview. This is a fantastic resource for you to watch interview videos, and see how others answer questions. It also provides practice sheets so that you can craft your own answers. Register using your UNR email address.

What Do You Bring to an Interview?

When you go to an interview, you want to look put together and prepared. You should bring a folder that has:

Extra copies of your resume and cover letter
- Bring enough for each interviewer.
Work samples (print or digital)
- Pull examples from your Wrangler Portfolio! You can also bring in any reports or significant projects that are relevant from your classwork or other jobs.
- You can bring extra print copies of your these samples so each interview has one to look over as you talk about it. Or you could show examples on your digital device.
Notebook and pen to take notes (print or digital)
- Write down the name of the interviewers, they will be impressed if you sprinkle in their names throughout the interview.
- Include a page of notes about the company, and questions you have for them.
Water
- Stress can make you thirsty! Bring water to help.

What Should I Do Before the Interview?

Prepare as much as you can! You should:

Research the company.
- Look at their website, social media accounts, news articles/press releases, job boards, review sites, etc.
- You want to know their mission, vision and values. Who are their clients? Who are the key players in the company (CEO/president)? What are some new and big projects they have worked on? What are their key services? How do other people view them? Is this really a company you can stand behind?
Find interview questions that may be asked.
- Glassdoor has a section where people can post the interview questions they were asked for specific companies and positions. Take a look at the Glassdoor interview section for companies you are interested in.
Make a list of projects and situational examples that can apply to any question.
- Prepare for these questions by creating a list of your best stories that showcase your skills in leadership, communication, problem-solving and attention to detail.
Practice these questions!
- Step in front of that mirror and practice, practice, practice! The more you talk out your answers, the better your flow will be when you actually have to talk in front of the interviewers.
Get feedback
- Have someone ask you a few questions, and provide feedback on how you answered.
- Ask us to help! We would love to help prep you for an interview. Who better to answer questions than the person who hired you for this current job?

Click Next to see more information on interview skills.