Make your next opportunity count
Landing an interview is a major accomplishment — now it’s time to show employers what makes you the right candidate
A successful interview is about more than having the right answers. It’s an opportunity to communicate your skills, experience and potential; learn more about the employer; and determine whether the opportunity is the right fit for you.
From preparing for common interview questions and making a strong first impression to selecting professional references and sending an effective thank-you note, every step matters. Whether you’re interviewing for your first internship, pursuing a new role, returning to the workforce or making a career change, the Office of Career and Personal Development can help you prepare. Take advantage of interview resources, mock interviews and personalized coaching to build confidence, navigate job offers and take your next step.
Ready to prepare? Connect with a career coach for personalized interview coaching and additional career resources. Schedule today
Confidence starts before the interview
The best interviews begin long before the conversation starts. Start by researching the organization, reviewing the job description, and identifying the skills and qualifications the employer values most. Then think about examples from your own experience that demonstrate how you can contribute.
Practice answering questions out loud rather than memorizing responses. You’ll sound more natural while becoming more comfortable talking about your accomplishments, strengths and career goals.
You can also use Quinncia, our AI-powered career platform, to practice interviews and receive personalized, on-demand feedback to help sharpen your responses and build confidence. Before the interview, prepare three to five thoughtful questions of your own about the role, team, organization or next steps in the hiring process.
Finally, take care of the details. Confirm the time and location or virtual meeting link, plan to arrive or log in a few minutes early, and have your resume and references ready.
Interview pro tips
- Research the organization and position
- Practice your responses out loud
- Use Quinncia for AI-powered interview practice and feedback
- Prepare three to five questions for the interviewer
- Arrive or log in a few minutes early
- Send a personalized thank-you email within 24 hours
Make a great impression — from anywhere
Virtual interviews are a standard part of today’s hiring process, and employers are paying attention to more than your answers. Your environment, technology, communication and preparation all contribute to the impression you make.
Before the interview, test your internet connection, camera, microphone and meeting platform. Choose a quiet, well-lit location with a clean background; silence notifications; and position your camera near eye level. Keep your resume, the job description, your prepared questions and a notepad nearby.
Treat a virtual interview with the same professionalism as an in-person meeting. Dress appropriately, give the conversation your full attention and look toward the camera regularly to create a stronger sense of eye contact.
Career tip: Technology can fail, but preparation shouldn’t. Join your interview a few minutes early and have the interviewer’s contact information available in case you experience technical problems. Test your setup in advance, minimize distractions and focus your attention completely on the conversation.
Panther Resource ClosetNeed clothes? The Panther Resource Closet (PRC) is a free resource for all Davenport students that provides food, hygiene items and professional clothing. Visit the PRC, or request items through the Center for Campus Life. Learn more about the PRC |  |
Want feedback on your virtual interview presence? The Office of Career and Personal Development can help you practice before the interview and identify ways to strengthen your presentation. Connect today
After the interview
Your opportunity to make an impression doesn’t end when the interview does. Send a concise, personalized thank-you email within 24 hours. Thank the interviewer for their time, reference something specific from your conversation and briefly reinforce your interest in the opportunity.
It’s also helpful to reflect while the interview is still fresh. Think about which answers went well, which questions were challenging, and what you learned about the position and organization. A few quick notes can help you prepare even more effectively for your next conversation.
Choosing your references
Select people who can speak specifically about your skills, work habits and accomplishments, such as current or former supervisors, professors, colleagues or volunteer leaders. Always ask permission before listing someone as a reference, and consider sharing your resume and information about the position so they know what the employer is looking for.
Your job offer: What's next?
Congratulations — you’ve received a job offer! Before accepting, take time to consider the complete opportunity — not just the salary.
Start with the written offer and review the job title, compensation, benefits, paid time off, start date and work arrangements. Then consider the bigger picture. Does the organization’s culture fit what you’re looking for? What opportunities will you have to learn and grow? How will the schedule, commute, remote work options or relocation requirements affect your day-to-day life?
Make sure you also understand the decision deadline and what happens after you accept, including any paperwork, background checks, orientation or training requirements.
Career tip: Give yourself time to make an informed decision. Ask for the offer in writing, and review the full compensation package before accepting. If you have questions about salary, benefits or negotiation, the Office of Career and Personal Development can help you prepare for the conversation.
We are here for your next step
From preparing for an interview to evaluating a job offer, you don’t have to navigate your next career move alone. The Office of Career and Personal Development offers personalized coaching, mock interviews and resources to help you prepare, make informed decisions and move forward with confidence.
Prepare. Practice. Move forward with confidence.
