Job, Internship Search Guides

Hey, Gen Z! Interviews don't have to be scary. With the right prep, you can show off your skills, personality, and drive — and make a lasting impression.

Here's your guide to acing interviews in today's world.

1. Do Your Research (Seriously)
   Before the interview, Google the company. Check their website, social media, and recent news. Learn their values, culture, and what they actually do.
   • Bonus move: Look up the interviewer on LinkedIn.
   • Tip: Follow the company on social media, like Instagram or TikTok, if they have an account. It might give you insight into their vibe.
     
     
2. Prep for the Interview, Not Just the Fit
   Don't wing it! Practice answering questions out loud. Common ones include:
   • "Tell me about yourself."
   • "What are your strengths and weaknesses?"
   • "Tell me about a time you solved a problem."

   Record yourself or use a mock interview app. Watch for tone, speed, and posture. Practice until it feels natural, not scripted.

3. Know What to Wear
   Even if the company is chill, first impressions count. Aim for clean, polished, and slightly more formal than everyday wear.
   • Video interview? Yes, pants still matter.
   • Stick with solid colors, simple accessories, and a confident look.
     
     
4. Bring Your Stories
   You might not have years of experience, but you've got stories. Think about:
   • Club leadership
   • Group projects
   • Part-time jobs
   • Social media or content creation (if relevant)
   • Volunteering

   Use the STAR method — Situation, Task, Action, Result — to tell your stories.

5. Ask Questions
   Always have one to two questions ready to ask them. Try:
   • "What's the team culture like?"
   • "What do successful people here have in common?"
     
     
6. After the Interview
   Send a quick thank you email (within 24 hours). Mention something specific from the conversation and express your continued interest.

Pro Tip: Even if you don’t get the job, reflect on what you learned. Interviews are a skill — the more you do, the better you get.

Switching careers? You're not starting over — you're leveling up. Here's how to stand out and confidently present your value when you're entering a new industry.

1. Reframe Your Experience
   Start by identifying transferable skills you bring from past roles. These can include:
   • Communication and collaboration
   • Customer service and relationship building
   • Digital literacy (spreadsheets, scheduling tools, CRM platforms)
   • Leadership and decision-making
   • Problem-solving and critical thinking
   • Project or time management

   Link these skills directly to the role you're applying for. Dont assume the employer will make the connection — spell it out clearly.

2. Market Yourself with Confidence
   Yes, you may be up against candidates who grew up with tech and social media, but you offer maturity, reliability, and perspective. Highlight:
   • Commitment to professional development (mention relevant certifications or courses)
   • Real world experience in high-stakes or fast-paced environments
   • Your proven ability to learn and adapt

   If you have experience leading teams, managing clients, training others, or launching projects — say so! Translate these wins into the language of your target industry.

3. Learn the Lingo
   Get familiar with the language and trends of your new field. Follow industry blogs, podcasts, and leaders on LinkedIn. Take free online courses (Coursera, Khan Academy, LinkedIn Learning, etc.) to boost your skills and confidence.
   
   
4. Prepare Your Story
   Be ready to answer:
   • "Why are you switching fields?"
   • "What do you bring that others in this field might not?"

   Craft a brief, confident career story that connects your past with your future. Emphasize your motivation, strengths, and proactive efforts to gain industry knowledge.

5. Practice Interviews
   Work with a mentor, friend, or career coach on mock interviews. Focus on:
   • Demonstrating your curiosity, professionalism, and people skills
   • Explaining your career pivot clearly and positively
   • Showcasing transferable skills through specific examples
     
     
6. Dress the Part
   Choose attire appropriate to the field you’re entering. Research what's typical and aim to look modern, put-together, and confident.
   
   
7. Ask Thoughtful Questions
   Show curiosity and preparation with questions like:
   • "What does success look like in this role for someone transitioning from another field?"
   • "What kind of support or mentorship is available during onboarding?"
     
     
8. Follow Up with Gratitude
   Send a thank you email within one to two days. Reiterate your interest and remind them of the strengths you bring to the table.

Remember: Career changers bring fresh perspective, resilience, and a wealth of life experience. Own it with pride and show how you can hit the ground running.

Interviewing can feel stressful, but with the right preparation, you can calm your nerves and confidently show employers who you are and what you bring to the table.

STEP 1: Research the Company and Role
Before your interview, dig deep into the company's mission, values, and recent projects. Go beyond the homepage. Check their social media, news mentions, and employee reviews on Glassdoor or LinkedIn.

• Reflect on why this company or position excites you. Be ready to articulate that.
• Understand the job description thoroughly. What key skills and traits are they looking for?
• Use your network. See if anyone in your circles has worked there or knows someone who has.

STEP 2: Prepare Like a Pro
Don't let the actual interview be your first time answering questions! Here's how to get ready:

• Practice answering out loud. Try in front of a mirror or with a friend, or use AI tools (like ChatGPT!) to simulate a mock interview.
• Record yourself using your phone. Watch for posture, eye contact, filler words, and tone. Ask: Do I look and sound confident, prepared, and engaged?
• Schedule a mock interview with a career counselor or trusted mentor.
• Get feedback on how well you answer and how you present yourself.

Bonus tip: Learn what kind of interview it will be:

• Group (with other candidates)
• One-on-one (classic)
• Panel (multiple interviewers)
• Second-round or on-site (often longer and more in-depth)
• Technical/working interview (showcase skills)
• Video/phone (very common now!)

STEP 3: Know the Types of Questions (and Ask Your Own)
Interviews usually include a mix of:

• Behavioral questions (e.g., "Tell me about a time you overcame a challenge")
• Situational/technical/case questions (role-specific problem-solving)
• Traditional questions (e.g., "Tell me about yourself")

Use the STAR method — Situation, Task, Action, Result — to structure your answers, especially for behavioral questions.

Be ready to talk about accomplishments from:

• Life experiences or side hustles
• School (projects, group work)
• Volunteering
• Work or internships

Prepare two to three thoughtful questions to ask them. It shows interest and helps you gauge if the company is a good fit.

STEP 4: Dress for the Role
The goal is to look polished and confident, while being industry-appropriate. You don't have to lose your identity, just keep it professional.

• Avoid loud colors, excessive jewelry, or distracting scents.
• For creative or casual settings, neat slacks and a smart blouse or button-up work well.
• For formal industries, stick to suits and conservative tones.
• Make sure everything is clean, pressed, and fits well.
• When in doubt, dress one level above what employees typically wear.

Virtual interview? Dress the same on camera! And make sure your background is tidy and free from distractions.

STEP 5: During the Interview

• Be observant. How do employees interact? What's the vibe?
• Be respectful to everyone, from receptionists to executives.
• Engage the interviewer. Don't just answer — have a conversation.
• Greet with confidence: eye contact, a friendly smile, and a firm (or virtual) handshake.
• Stay positive (even if asked about challenges or gaps).
• Turn off notifications (phones, emails, smartwatches).
• Ask about next steps if they don't mention it.

STEP 6: After the Interview

• Acknowldegement — send a thank you email within 24 to 48 hours. Keep it brief, sincere, and specific about something you appreciated or learned.
• Reaffirm your interest and highlight why you're a great fit.
• If you haven't heard back within a week or two (or the timeline they gave you), follow up once. Be professional and polite.

Virtual interviews are now a standard part of the hiring process. Whether you're interviewing on Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, Zoom, or a proprietary platform, success comes down to preparation, tech readiness, and strong virtual presence. Here's how to confidently navigate a virtual interview in today's digital-first job market.

1. Treat It Like an In-Person Interview (Because It Is)
   • Research the company and role thoroughly.
   • Practice answering common interview questions out loud or in a mock video interview.
   • Dress professionally from head to toe — even if you're at home.
   • Set up your camera at eye level to simulate natural eye contact.
     
     

   Insider Tip: Greet your interviewer with a smile as soon as the video connects. Many platforms start recording or displaying your face before the official greeting begins.
   
   

2. Tech Setup and Troubleshooting
   • Test your internet connection using speedtest.net. Aim for at least 10 Mbps upload/download.
   • Close unused programs and browser tabs to preserve bandwidth.
   • Plug in your device and keep a charger nearby.
   • Use headphones or earbuds to avoid feedback and ensure clear audio.
   • Disable notifications and pop-ups before the interview.
   • Download and test the interview platform ahead of time (Micrrosoft Teams, Zoom, etc.). Log in five to 10 minutes early to check your microphone and camera.
     
     

   Have a Backup Plan: If the call drops, let the employer know how to reach you (e.g., phone number). You can offer this info in advance via email.

   Insider Tip: Rename your display name to match your full professional name (e.g., "Jordan Taylor" instead of "jt_2002") and upload a polished profile picture in case your video drops and defaults to an avatar.

3. Create the Right Environment
   • Choose a quiet, clutter-free, well-lit space. Natural light in front of you is best.
   • If your background is distracting, use a simple, professional virtual background (neutral tones or office-style).
   • Inform roommates or family in advance so you're not interrupted.
   • Silence your phone and smart devices (like Alexa or Siri).
     
     

   Insider Tip: Place a sticky note or small arrow near your webcam as a reminder to look directly at the camera instead of the screen, especially during key responses.

4. Understand the Interview Format
   
   

   Synchronous Interview (Live):

   • You're meeting the interviewer in real time, similar to in-person.
   • Look directly into the camera when speaking, not at your own image.
   • Sit upright and smile occasionally to show engagement.
   • Speak clearly and pause slightly to account for audio delays.
     
     

   Asynchronous Interview (Pre-Recorded):

   • You respond to pre-set video questions without a live interviewer.
   • Maintain eye contact with the camera, not your notes.
   • Use a confident, conversational tone.
   • Practice using platforms like HireVue or Spark Hire if provided.
   • You may only get one take. Read all the instructions carefully before starting.
     
     

   Pro Tip: Record yourself answering questions using Zoom or your phone to check your pacing, clarity, and body language.

   Insider Tip: During asynchronous interviews, expect a short countdown (e.g., 30 seconds) before recording begins. Use this time to take a deep breath, sit tall, and mentally center yourself.

5. Common Virtual Interview Questions to Practice
   • Tell me about yourself.
   • Why are you interested in this position/company?
   • How do you stay productive while working remotely?
   • What tools have you used for remote collaboration?
   • Tell us about a challenge you overcame while working from home.
   • How do you manage stress and maintain balance in remote settings?
   • How did you use your time during the pandemic?
     
     

   Insider Tip: Many employers are assessing digital communication skills. Speak with clarity, use confident body language, and don't be afraid to pause before answering — this shows thoughtfulness.

6. Final Reminders
   • Be fully present and avoid multitasking.
   • It's okay to pause or ask for a question to be repeated.
   • Keep notes nearby but avoid reading them word-for-word.
   • Stay calm and smile — your energy still comes through on screen.
     
     

   Insider Tip: Always thank your interviewer at the end, even in asynchronous formats. Your closing words can leave a lasting impression, so end with gratitude and enthusiasm.

Need Help Practicing? Schedule a virtual mock interview with a career counselor. Contact the Career/Transfer Center at (626) 914-8639 or visit our website to book an appointment.

You've got this! With preparation and presence, you can stand out and make a strong impression — even from your screen.

Big Interview

• Combines training videos plus virtual mock interviews
• Free access through many colleges or workforce programs
• Practice tools for behavioral, technical, and industry-specific interviews

Career Contessa

• Articles and podcasts on career changes, interviews, and confidence-building
• "30 Smart Questions to Ask in an Interview" is a popular one
• Women-focused but great for all job seekers

Glassdoor Interview Questions

• Includes feedback on difficulty and experience
• Real interview questions posted by applicants who interviewed at specific companies
• Super helpful to prep for big-name employers like Google, Amazon, or local organizations

Indeed Career Guide

• Clear, concise articles on every stage of the interview process
• Especially useful for career changers and entry-level applicants
• Practice questions, video guides, and etiquette advice

LinkedIn Learning

• Free access via many libraries, colleges, and alumni associations
• Short video courses on interviewing, including mastering virtual interviews, answering tough questions, and improving communication

The Muse

• Fresh, practical articles on interview questions, remote interviews, salary negotiations, and career pivots
• Real-world language, perfect for Gen Z and Millennials
• Topics like "what to say when you don't know the answer" and "how to show culture fit"

Work It Daily

• Great YouTube channel and blog posts on interview strategy, resume tips, and job search mindset
• Run by career coach J.T. O'Donnell
• Weekly job search Q and As