But It's Only an Internship Interview!

Your resume has risen to the top of the pile and you have been called in for an interview at an internship location that sounds perfect for you. It's an exciting place and promises to give you exactly the sort of experience you have been working for. Now, it's time to get ready for the interview.

"But it's only an "internship" interview!", you say. "It's not as if my whole career depends upon it."

WRONG! Treat this interview in the same manner you would any job interview - as if it will determine the course of your career.

For instance, unless the employer tells you differently, dress in a dark, conservative suit. This applies to both men and women. If you seem to be overdressed, the interviewer may invite you to take off your jacket. Remember, you can never recover from being underdressed, but you can always make adjustments to "casualize" your appearance.

The interview will be full of questions, but there are some questions that you may ask before you arrive for the meeting, such as:

• Who will be interviewing me?
• Can you explain the hiring process? How are decisions made?
• What was it about my background that led you to call me for an interview?

During the interview, there are questions you can ask that demonstrate your interest in the position, giving you a chance to showcase your skills. Try some of these:

• Would you please describe the duties of the job for me?
• What do you consider ideal skills or experience for this position?
• What are the primary results you would like to see me produce?
• What qualities are important for people to succeed in this assignment?

Of course, the interviewer will have plenty of questions for you.  Be prepared to answer questions like the following:

• Tell me about yourself.  (Have an introduction ready that outlines your skills and education and how they fit this position.)
• What is your greatest weakness?  (You may choose an appropriate strength like "getting too absorbed in work" and report it as a weakness, or say, "I have recently changed something about myself" and discuss what you have done to make yourself a better worker.
• What have you learned in school that will help you in this internship?

Finally, take the time to practice, practice and then rehearse!  Go to your career services office for an mock interview, or practice your answers privately.  All this preparation will make you a much more confident candidate.

Refer to Jobweb's helpful article Interviewing for Internships for more valuable information as well.