Acing any kind of interview can definitely help you out whether it is for a job or even for admission to college. Even though most colleges will not require you to interview, some of them do, and besides, having excellent interview skills will pay off somewhere down the line.
According to a recent article in the US News and World Report by Bradford Holmes, he encourages those who are interviewing for college these tips to follow:
- Don’t show your immaturity. An admissions interview is partly about showing that you are ready to live independently. Holmes suggests that you make sure you arrive to your interview by yourself, showing that independence. In addition, Holmes says that you definitely need to dress for success to show you are serious about the interview.
- Watch your attitude and respect the interviewer. Make sure that you give the interviewer your complete attention for the duration of the interview. DO NOT check your cellphone for any reason, even if you are just checking the time. In fact, you might be best to leave it in the car. Also make sure you are early so do what you need to do to get there before the interview. It is a great idea to give a firm handshake and look the interviewer in the eyes throughout the interview. And, once the interview is over, send the interviewer a thank you note.
- Research the college and be prepared. Before your interview, make a list of questions that you would like to know answers to about the college. Ask yourself what factors are extremely important to you about college. In addition, it is a great idea to do research on the college by visiting its website. And, if you have access to talking to other current students or alumni, take advantage of that and ask them questions about the college before your interview. Be ready to answer the question, “What made you decide to attend this school?”
- Brag about yourself, but not too much. It is important to explain why you are a great candidate for admissions, but remember not to brag too much about yourself. Explain your accomplishments, and, if the interviewer is impressed, he or she will definitely ask follow up questions that you can elaborate on.
- Rehearse, but not too much. Remember, the interviewer wants to see the real you. Have stories, anecdotes, and examples to share that exhibit your unique qualities, but try to stay away from rehearsed, obvious answers. Again, if the interviewer is interested in specific aspects, he or she will have you explain certain things to further your knowledge on an answer.
If you need more help, please call or email us. We also have more suggestions to help your interviews be successful. We’ll be happy to send them to you.