The Gamecock’s Guide to Interview Prep - Make a Strong First Impression

Sep 27, 2026

Uploaded by Stanford

A comprehensive interview preparation guide focused on building a strong first impression and performing effectively in both in-person and virtual settings. It emphasizes professional appearance, confident communication through firm handshake and eye contact, and punctual arrival with clear logistical planning. The guide also covers self-introduction, correct pronunciation of the interviewer’s name, and proactive preparation steps such as researching the employer, understanding the role, compiling required information, and practicing for common and “trick” questions. It includes specific instructions for virtual interviews, including camera and audio readiness, environment setup, and using supported platforms.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryExam

FormatPDF

Pages12

Reading Time30 min

AccessFree to download

Make a Strong First Impression

Shake Hands Firmly & Maintain Eye Contact With the Interviewer

Arrive at Least Ten Minutes Early

Introduce Yourself and Indicate Who You Are There to See

Know How to Pronounce the Interviewer’s Name

Virtual Interviews

Preparing for a Virtual Interview

On-Campus Interviews

Before the Interview

Investigate the Employer

Understand the Position

Prepare for Questions

Compile Relevant Information

Practice!

The Gamecock’s Guide to INTERVIEW PREP Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity. —attributed to Seneca MAKE A STRONG FIRST IMPRESSION LOOK AND DRESS LIKE A PROFESSIONAL. • 92 percent of employers surveyed said that appearance influenced their opinions about candidates. • Wear appropriate business attire or a suit that is properly fitted. • Make sure your shoes are clean/polished and attire is well pressed with no stains or wrinkles. • Groom yourself appropriately (showered, clean hair, clean fingernails, etc.) . • Keep jewelry and perfume/cologne to a minimum. • Visit the Gamecock CommUnity Shop on campus in the Carolina Coliseum to utilize free professional clothing for interviews! SHAKE HANDS FIRMLY & MAINTAIN EYE CONTACT WITH THE INTERVIEWER. • A firm, confident handshake sets the tone. It shows you’re poised, professional, and ready. • Demonstrate active listening by looking at the speaker. • Don’t be caught looking at the floor, the room, etc. • Silence your cell phone, watch, or other devices and put them away to avoid any distractions. ARRIVE AT LEAST TEN MINUTES EARLY. • Account for possible traffic or any parking needs. • Make sure you have adequate directions. If needed, drive to the location in advance to determine how long the trip takes and to make certain you know where you are going. • Confirm time, day, and location of your interviews, as well as who will interview you beforehand. INTRODUCE YOURSELF AND INDICATE WHO YOU ARE THERE TO SEE. • Remember the interview starts the moment you enter the door and doesn’t end until you leave. KNOW HOW TO PRONOUNCE THE INTERVIEWER’S NAME. • Repeat their name when you greet them to help you remember it. IN THIS GUIDE Make a Strong First Impression ...................... 1 Virtual Interviews ............... 2 Before the Interview ............ 3 During the Interview ............ 3 After the Interview .............. 4 Learn Interview Question Styles ................. 4 Behavioral Interviewing & Using the S.T.A.R. Method ....... 5 Behavioral Interviewing Worksheet: The STAR Method... 6 Sample Behavioral Interview Questions ............ 7 Salary Negotiation .............. 8 How to Negotiate ............... 9 The Final Offer .................. 9 Salary Negotiation Letter Sample ................. 10 Accepting a Job Offer ......... 10 Avoid Illegal Interview Questions ..................... 11 ThankYou Notes: Tips & Best Practices .......... 12 ThankYou Note Sample....... 12 VIRTUAL INTERVIEWS PREPARING FOR A VIRTUAL INTERVIEW Before you jump into the interview: • Confirm which link you’re supposed to use. The employer should provide the link (Zoom, Teams, etc.) in the scheduling description. • Log in early to make sure that your webcam, microphone, and speakers or headset are working and that your internet connection is stable. • Make sure you’re in a quiet, well-lit space with a blank background or utilize a blurred background to eliminate distractions. • Confirm your browser is supported by the video platform. It is recommended to not use a mobile device for virtual interviews. • If you’re using a mobile device: Handshake supports mobile, but double-check that the app is up-to-date and your device meets requirements. • Make sure you join on time, camera on (unless specified), and you’re prepared with notes and questions. ON-CAMPUS INTERVIEWS Want to connect directly with employers? On-campus interviews make it easy. Meet recruiters, learn about companies you’re interested in, and explore real job and internship opportunities—all right here at USC. HOW IT WORKS 1. Log in to Handshake. Search for on-campus interview opportunities and check application deadlines (most are about four weeks before the interview date) . 2. Apply through Handshake. Upload your resume and submit your application. 3. Watch for updates. If selected, Handshake will notif

FAQs

How should you dress and present yourself for an interview?

Wear appropriate business attire or a well-fitted suit. Ensure shoes are clean and attire is pressed with no stains or wrinkles, and keep grooming, jewelry, and perfume/cologne minimal.

What should you do to succeed in a virtual interview?

Use the correct link, log in early to test webcam and audio, and join on time with your camera on (unless specified). Choose a quiet, well-lit space with a blank or blurred background and confirm browser support for the video platform.

What steps should you complete before the interview?

Research the employer and company culture, understand the position’s requirements and responsibilities, and prepare answers to common questions. Compile any application information the organization may request, create relevant materials (like extra resume copies), and practice your responses including how to handle “trick” questions.

Sep 27, 2026

Uploaded by Stanford