Understand why interviews exist: to assess fit, clarify your experience, and evaluate your communication skills. Learn what employers look for beyond your resume—professionalism, attitude, and alignment with organizational values.
Developmental Interviews
Developmental interviews are learning-focused conversations designed to help students and alumni build confidence, strengthen interview skills, and explore career paths in a supportive environment. Unlike employer-led interviews, these experiences emphasize growth, reflection, and preparation—whether through mock interviews for practice or informational interviews for insight and networking.
Mock interviews provide students and alumni with a supportive, low-pressure environment to practice interviewing skills and refine their professional presentation. These sessions simulate real interview scenarios, helping participants feel prepared, confident, and ready to succeed.
What to Expect
Mock interviews are designed to closely resemble real interviews and may be conducted in various formats, including phone, virtual, in-person, or panel interviews.
Professional Feedback
Career Services Advisors and Directors provide personalized, constructive feedback focused on key areas of the interview process. Feedback includes clarity and structure of responses, body language, tone, and eye contact, strengths to continue using and areas for improvement, and strategies for answering difficult or unexpected questions
Personalized Preparation
Sessions can be tailored to specific industries, roles, or job descriptions, ensuring that feedback and practice are directly aligned with your career goals.
Building Confidence
Through repeated practice and targeted feedback, students reduce interview anxiety and gain a clearer understanding of employer expectations, which leads to improved performance in real interviews.
Tip: The more you practice interviewing, the more natural and confident your responses will feel—helping you make a strong impression when it matters most.
Informational interviews are brief, professional conversations with individuals in careers or organizations you’re interested in. Although they are not job interviews, they are powerful tools for gaining insider insights, exploring career paths, and building meaningful professional relationships that can lead to mentorship and networking opportunities.
What to Expect
Informational interviews typically last 20–30 minutes and may be conducted by phone, virtually, or in person. These conversations focus on learning from a professional’s experiences, career path, and industry knowledge.
Request the Meeting
Reach out with a brief, polite message that clearly explains who you are, why you’re interested in their career path, and how much time you’re requesting.
Best practices:
- Be clear, concise, and respectful of their time
- Suggest flexible meeting options (phone, virtual, or in person)
Approach Professionally
Treat the informational interview as a professional meeting.
Best practices:
- Use professional communication and email etiquette.
- Dress appropriately whether meeting virtually or in person.
- Be punctual and prepared.
Prepare Questions
Develop thoughtful, open-ended questions about career paths, industry trends, and professional experiences.
Best practices:
- Avoid asking for a job or internship.
- Prioritize questions that invite insight, advice, and reflection.
Research Thoroughly
Before the meeting, research interviewer’s background, role, and organization.
Best practices:
- Prepare questions that show genuine interest.
- Review LinkedIn profiles and company websites.
Conduct the Interview
Use the time wisely and guide the conversation with respect.
Best practices:
- Listen more than you speak.
- Take notes when appropriate.
- Be mindful of the agreed-upon time.
Listen Attentively
Show engagement and professionalism throughout the conversation.
Best practices:
- Maintain eye contact.
- Ask follow-up questions.
- Avoid interrupting.
Tip: Informational interviews often lead to mentorship, referrals, and future opportunities—focus on building relationships, rather than making requests.
Tip: Approach developmental interviews with curiosity and openness. The goal is progress, not perfection—each conversation is an opportunity to learn, refine your approach, and advance professionally.
Typical Stages of the Interview Process
While every employer’s hiring process is slightly different, most follow a similar sequence. Understanding these stages can help you prepare with confidence and anticipate what to expect at each step.
| What stage: | What is it: | What you can do: |
Application Review
Employers review resumes, cover letters, and application materials to determine whether candidates meet the role’s basic qualifications. Some organizations use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to help narrow the pool.
Tailor your resume to the job description and highlight relevant skills and experience.
Screening
This is often a brief phone or video interview conducted by a recruiter or HR representative. The purpose is to confirm your interest, review your qualifications, and discuss logistics such as availability or salary range.
Prepare a brief summary of your experience and be ready to explain why you’re interested in the role.
Interview
A more in-depth interview with the hiring manager, team members, or a panel. Questions typically focus on your experience, problem-solving skills, and how you might fit within the organization.
Research the employer and prepare examples that demonstrate your skills through real experiences.
Skills Assessments
(if applicable)
Some roles require additional evaluations such as writing samples, presentations, case studies, technical tests, or role-play exercises to assess job-related skills.
Read the instructions carefully, manage your time, and clearly and professionally showcase your strengths.
Decision & Offer*
After interviews and assessments, employers make a hiring decision. Selected candidates receive an offer outlining pay, benefits, and start date, while others may receive a notification or update.
Review the offer carefully, ask questions if needed, and respond within the requested timeframe.
Tip: Understanding this progression helps you identify where you are in the hiring process, anticipate next steps, and follow up appropriately reducing uncertainty and boosting confidence.
* South University cannot guarantee employment.
Employer-Led Interviews
Employers use different interview formats based on the role, organization, and stage of the hiring process. Understanding each format helps you prepare effectively and present yourself with confidence.
Phone Interviews are often used as an initial screening, phone interviews help employers quickly assess a candidate’s qualifications, interest, and communication skills.
What employers are evaluating:
- Clear and professional communication
- Basic qualifications and experience
- Interest in the role and organization
Preparation tips:
- Choose a quiet location with good reception
- Have your resume and the job description nearby
- Practice answering questions concisely and confidently
Virtual Interviews are conducted via platforms, such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams, are now a standard part of the hiring process.
What employers are evaluating:
- Verbal and non-verbal communication
- Comfort with technology
- Professionalism in a remote setting
Preparation tips:
- Test your camera, microphone, and internet connection in advance
- Dress professionally and ensure a clean, distraction-free background
- Maintain eye contact by looking into the camera
These interviews help employers build rapport and assess how candidates interact in a workplace setting. They may include office tours, meetings with multiple team members, or panel interviews.
What employers are evaluating:
- Interpersonal skills and professionalism
- Cultural and team fit
- Depth of skills and experience
Preparation tips:
- Arrive early and plan your route ahead of time
- Bring copies of your resume and a notepad
- Be courteous to everyone you meet, from reception staff to interviewers
Panel interviews involve meeting with multiple interviewers at once, often representing different roles, departments, or levels within the organization. This format allows employers to observe how candidates communicate, engage with multiple stakeholders, and perform in a group setting.
What employers are evaluating:
- Interpersonal skills and professionalism
- Ability to engage multiple perspectives
- Cultural and team fit
- Depth of skills, experience, and communication clarity
Preparation tips:
- Research the panel members and their roles, if available
- Practice answering questions while maintaining eye contact with multiple interviewers
- Address the person who asked the question, then include others
- Use clear, structured examples (such as the STAR Method)
- Thank each panelist and follow up with a professional thank-you message
Tip: You may encounter more than one type of interview during the hiring process. Preparing for each format boosts your confidence and helps you make a strong impression at every stage.
Common Interview Question Categories
Interview questions are designed to assess your skills, experience, and fit for the role and the organization. Understanding the categories helps you prepare thoughtful, confident responses and recognize what employers are really looking for.
These questions help employers get to know you and set the tone for the interview. They are often asked early and offer an opportunity to make a strong first impression.
What employers are evaluating:
- Communication and professionalism
- Confidence and self-awareness
- Overall readiness for the role
Examples:
- “Tell me about yourself.”
- “What interests you about this position?”
- “Why should we hire you?”
Preparation tip: Prepare a brief, professional introduction highlighting your background, key skills, and interest in the role. Keep responses clear, focused, and relevant to the position.
These questions focus on how you handled situations in the past, based on the idea that past behavior predicts future performance.
What employers are evaluating:
- Problem-solving and decision-making
- Communication and teamwork
- Adaptability and professionalism
Examples:
- “Tell me about a time you faced a challenge at work.”
- “Describe a situation where you worked with a difficult team member.”
Preparation tip: Use the STAR Method to structure clear, focused responses.
These questions assess the specific skills or knowledge required for the role.
What employers are evaluating:
- Job-related competencies
- Ability to apply skills in real situations
- Level of expertise or training
Examples:
- “What software or tools are you proficient in?”
- “How would you approach this task or problem?”
Preparation tip: Review the job description and be ready to explain how you’ve used relevant skills.
These questions explore your education, work history, and career path.
What employers are evaluating:
- Relevant experience and transferable skills
- Career progression and motivation
- Alignment with the role
Examples:
- “Walk me through your resume.”
- “How has your background prepared you for this position?”
Preparation tip: Practice summarizing your experience clearly and concisely.
These questions help employers determine whether you’re genuinely interested and aligned with the organization’s culture and values.
What employers are evaluating:
- Interest in the role and organization
- Work style and values
- Long-term potential
Examples:
- “Why do you want to work here?”
- “What interests you about this role?”
Preparation tip: Research the organization and connect your goals to their mission.
These questions explore self-awareness and willingness to learn.
What employers are evaluating:
- Honest self-assessment
- Growth mindset
- Receptiveness to feedback
Examples:
- “What are your strengths?”
- “What is an area you’re working to improve?”
Preparation tip: Choose examples that show reflection, learning, and progress.
These questions ask how you would handle a future scenario.
What employers are evaluating:
- Judgment and problem-solving approach
- Ability to think critically under pressure
- Professional decision-making
Examples:
- “What would you do if you missed a deadline?”
- “How would you handle a conflict with a coworker?”
Preparation tip: Explain your thought process clearly and logically.
Tip: Preparing examples for each question category ensures you’re ready for a wide range of interviews and can respond with confidence and clarity.
Want to see more sample questions? Check out our Interview Question Bank to sharpen your skills before your next interview.
Interviewing Using the STAR Method
The STAR Method is a structured approach to answering behavioral interview questions. Employers use these questions to understand how you’ve handled real situations in the past, as this is often the best predictor of future performance. Using STAR helps you stay focused, provide clear examples, and confidently showcase your skills.
Why Use the STAR Method?
- Keeps answers organized and easy to follow
- Helps you clearly demonstrate skills and experience
- Prevents answers from becoming too vague or unfocused
- Increases confidence when answering behavioral questions
The STAR Breakdown
S
Situation
Briefly describe the context or challenge you were facing. Set the scene without unnecessary detail.
Example: Where were you working? What was happening? What problem needed to be addressed?
T
Task
Explain your specific responsibility or role in the situation.
Example: What were you expected to accomplish? What goal were you responsible for?
A
Action
Describe the steps you personally took to address the situation. Focus on your actions, not the team’s.
Example: What did you do? What skills did you use? How did you handle obstacles?
R
Result
Share the outcome of your actions and what you learned. Whenever possible, include measurable results.
Example: What happened as a result? What was the impact? What would you do again or differently?
Putting STAR Into Practice
Before an interview, prepare several STAR stories that highlight key skills, including communication, teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, and adaptability. These examples can be reused and tailored to different questions.
Tip: Strong STAR answers are concise, specific, and focused on your contribution—this framework is one of the most reliable ways to succeed in interviews.
Following Up After the Interview
Following up demonstrates professionalism, reinforces your interest, and leaves a positive impression. Here’s how to approach it effectively:
Same-Day Thank You
- Send a brief email within 24 hours
- Thank the interviewer for their time
- Reaffirm your interest in the position
Personalized Notes
- Reference specific topics or insights from your conversation
- Highlight points where you demonstrated your skills or fit
- Address any questions you may have missed during the interview
Check-In Communication
- If the employer’s decision timeline has passed, send a polite follow-up
- Keep it concise and professional
- Ask for an update on next steps without being pushy
Tip: Thoughtful follow-ups demonstrate gratitude, professionalism, and continued interest – key qualities that leave a lasting impression on interviewers.
Evaluating Job Offers
When considering a job offer, it’s important to look beyond the salary and weigh all factors that affect your career and lifestyle. Here are key areas to evaluate:
Compensation
- Review base salary, bonuses, and benefits (healthcare, retirement, PTO)
- Compare the offer to industry standards and local cost of living
Location & Lifestyle
- Consider commute time and flexibility (remote or hybrid options)
- Factor in relocation needs and how the role fits your desired work-life balance
Growth Potential
- Explore advancement opportunities within the company
- Look for mentorship programs, professional development, and training options
Company Culture
- Assess the work environment and team dynamics
- Determine if the company’s values align with your own
- Consider management style, communication practices, and inclusivity
Tip: A strong offer balances compensation, career growth, and personal fulfillment—take the time to evaluate all aspects before deciding.
Negotiating Strategies
Negotiating your job offer can feel intimidating, but with preparation and a professional approach, you can advocate for yourself effectively.
Research First
- Understand industry standards for your role, experience, and location
- Use salary surveys, websites, and alumni networks to gather data
Practice Your Case
- Rehearse your value proposition with clear examples of your skills, accomplishments, and contributions
- Be prepared to explain why your request is reasonable
Consider the Total Package
- Evaluate more than just base salary—consider benefits, flexibility, bonuses, professional development, and growth opportunities
- Identify which components matter most to you
Maintain Professionalism
- Evaluate more than just base salary—consider benefits, flexibility, bonuses, professional development, and growth opportunities
- Identify which components matter most to you
Tip: Effective negotiation balances confidence with professionalism and shows that you understand your value while respecting the employer’s perspective.
Handling Rejection
Receiving a job rejection can feel discouraging, but it’s also an opportunity to learn, grow, and refine your approach. Here’s how to handle it professionally and turn it into a positive experience:
View Rejections as Redirections
- Understand that rejection is not a reflection of your worth or potential
- Use it as an opportunity to explore other roles or paths that may be an even better fit
- Stay positive and maintain momentum in your job search
Request Feedback When Possible
- Politely ask the employer for constructive feedback on your application or interview
- Focus on learning points, not just the outcome
- Feedback can provide valuable insights for future opportunities
Refine Your Approach
- Reflect on lessons learned from each interview or application
- Adjust your resume, cover letter, or interview strategies based on feedback
- Practice skills or scenarios that may need improvement, such as STAR responses or negotiation techniques
Tip: Treat every rejection as a stepping stone. With each experience, you become more prepared, more resilient, and more confident for the next opportunity.
Don’t Forget
Professionalism & First Impressions
First impressions matter. Arrive on time, dress appropriately for both virtual and in-person interviews, and maintain eye contact, a confident tone, and positive body language. Research the company culture in advance so your presentation aligns with its environment.
Handling Nerves & Building Confidence
Nervousness is normal—preparation is key. Practice through mock interviews, use breathing techniques to stay grounded, and reframe interviews as professional conversations rather than interrogations.
Ethics & Integrity in Interviewing
Be honest about your experience and skills. Clearly distinguish between what you know and what you are eager to learn, and maintain professionalism and integrity throughout the process.
Preparing Your Own Questions
Thoughtful questions signal curiosity, confidence, and engagement. Questions such as “What does success look like in this role?” or “How does your team measure performance?” demonstrate genuine interest and professionalism.