interview

Interview preparation 

We strongly recommend scheduling a time to meet with a Career Advisor to discuss topics such as: 

• Crafting strong answers to common questions

• Developing your personal pitch

• Discussing professionalism and first impressions

• Helping you prepare questions to ask the employer

• Dealing with nerves & building confidence

Note: The Career Center can also connect you with professionals in your field of interest who can offer industry-specific advice and insights to help you prepare for the interview process. 

mock interview

A mock interview is a practice interview with a Career Advisor that simulates a real job, internship, or graduate school interview. You'll be asked common interview questions and get immediate feedback on your answers, body language, and overall presentation.

Why Do a Mock Interview

• Practice answering interview questions out loud

• Get feedback on your communication style

• Learn how to use the STAR method for behavioral questions

• Receive tips on body language, tone, and professionalism

• Reduce anxiety and feel more prepared for the real thing

What to Expect

• You can choose the type of interview you want to practice (e.g., job, internship, grad school, virtual or in-person)

• Your mock interviewer will tailor the questions to your field of interest 

• You'll get constructive feedback on what you're doing well and how you can improve

Schedule Your Mock Interview

Ready to practice? Contact the Career Center to book a one-on-one mock interview with a Career Advisor, or let us know if you'd like help connecting with a professional in your field that can assist with this process. 

virtual interviews

Virtual interviews have become a standard part of the hiring process—whether for internships, jobs, or graduate school. While the format is different, your goal remains the same: present yourself confidently, professionally, and authentically. If you need a private space or equipment to complete your interview, email us at careercenter@eckerd.edu or visit during office hours to reserve a room or borrow a device. 

What to Expect in a Virtual Interview

Virtual interviews can happen over platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet. They might be:

• Live one-on-one or panel-style interviews

• Pre-recorded interviews, where you record responses to timed questions

How to Prepare

Check Your Tech

• Test your camera, microphone, and internet connection ahead of time

• Make sure your device is fully charged or plugged in

• Know which platform you’ll be using and download it in advance

Choose a Quiet, Professional Setting

• Sit in a well-lit space with a neutral or tidy background

• Eliminate distractions (silence your phone and close other tabs)

• Use headphones or earbuds for better sound quality, if possible

Dress the Part

• Wear the same professional attire you’d choose for an in-person interview

Practice Eye Contact and Body Language

• Look at the camera—not the screen—when speaking

• Sit up straight, smile, and use natural gestures

• Nod and show engagement, especially during group or panel interviews

Keep Materials Nearby

• Have a copy of your resume, the job description, and any questions for the employer close at hand

• Use sticky notes or a notepad (off-screen) to help guide your response

after the interview

Evaluation 

Take some time to evaluate the position after your interview is over.  Ask yourself if the job will be a good fit for you. Evaluate if you felt prepared for the interview, and take note of any questions you felt unprepared for—this will help you prepare for future interviews.  

Thank You Notes

Sending a thank you note keeps your name fresh in the mind of the interviewer and gives you the opportunity to reaffirm your interest in the position. Below is an example of a thank you email: 

Dear Diane Woods,

I would like to thank you for taking time to meet with me today. It was a pleasure speaking with you, and I thoroughly enjoyed our discussion regarding (ORGANIZATION) and learning more about the (JOB TITLE) opportunity. 

As we discussed, I believe my past work experiences in (OUTLINE YOUR SKILLS) would facilitate a seamless transition and allow me to make an immediate and positive impact. I would be thrilled to take the next step in my career at (ORGANIZATION), and I hope to have the opportunity to make a valuable contribution there. 

Thank you again for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

James Bell

(123) 456-7890 

bell.james@email.com