Don't let your first interview be your first time actually answering interview questions! Consider the following strategies when preparing:

• Write out answers to questions you think the employer will ask.
• Practice saying your responses out loud. Answering potential questions in front of a mirror can make you more aware of your facial expressions and gestures. You can also HEAR yourself and this helps with volume and pace. Most importantly, once you say it, it will flow much more smoothly in front of someone else.
• Practice with friends or family, or schedule an appointment with a career counselor at the Career/Transfer Center.
• Ask for feedback on the content and organization of your answers (completeness, level of detail, how easy to follow) and your presentation style (pace, voice quality/tone, energy, posture, eye contact, hand gestures).
• Film or record your responses using your smartphone and review your performance. Ask yourself, "Did I look/sound confident, relaxed, and enthusiastic?" "What does my body language say?" "How were my pace and volume?" "Did I smile?" "Did I look too serious?" "Did I look nervous or did my voice sound shaky?"

Also, find out what type of interview you will have. This will also help you prepare mentally so it is not a surprise when you are in a room with several individuals. Types of interviews include:

• One-on-one: Just you and one interviewer, the most common type of interview
• Panel: You are interviewed by more than one person at the same time
• Group: A group of candidates is interviewed by a panel or one interviewer
• Meal: You are interviewed while eating, usually over lunch
• Working: You are put to work and observed
• Phone or Video: Often used as a screening tool before inviting you to an on-site interview
• On-Site or Second Round: After you have made it through a screening interview, this is a more extended interview at the employer site that may include a series of different types of interviews, a site tour, and a meal.