Student Services Career Development Center Macalester College
Career Development Center

If you would like personalized assistance, please contact the CDC for an individual appointment, or stop by during drop-in hours Monday through Friday between 2 P.M. and 4 P.M.

Interviewing: During the Interview

Be Mindful of Your Body Language
Shake hands firmly when introduced and maintain eye contact. Project enthusiasm, flexibility, ease of communication, a sense of humor when appropriate, and willingness for hard work. Remember that the employer's first impression is often a deciding factor.

Listen Carefully to Each Question
When answering questions, pause in order to give you time to compose an answer that is concise but thoughtful. Politely ask clarification for questions which seem unclear or you don't understand. Learn the names of all the people with whom you will interview. Refer to the interviewer by the correct title, Dr., Mr., Ms., never Mrs.

Answer Questions in Terms of Your Skills and Accomplishments
Focus your responses on previous experiences that relate to the employers’ needs. Talk about time off if there has been a considerable lapse of time between jobs. Avoid general statements.

Speak in Positive Terms
Never say negative comments about former employers or co-workers.

Avoid Questions About Salary and Benefits
These questions are better left for after you have been offered the position. If the interviewer asks the questions, postpone discussing it or speak in terms of salary range. Be sure to conduct research regarding current salary range.

Ask for a Timeline Regarding the Hiring Process
If you have not received a response by the scheduled decision date, you may call to check on the progress. Do not call too soon or too often.

Close the Interview with a Summary Statement
This statement allows you the opportunity to reiterate the skills you have to offer and to reaffirm your interest in the position. Express your enthusiasm. Ask the person that interviewed you for a business card. This ensures that you will have correct information regarding the interviewer's name, title, company name, and address.


Macalester College · 1600 Grand Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55105  USA · 651-696-6000
Comments and questions to cdc@macalester.edu