Think of your interview as your championship game or live performance—would an elite athlete or performer show up unprepared? No. They train, analyze their competition, and refine their skills to perform under pressure. You should do the same.
How to Structure Your Interview Prep
1. Take advantage of CDO Resources
- Mock interviews: Get feedback and refine your responses.
- CDO Website: Build Career Skills > Prepare for Your Interview has interview guides, prep behavioral questions, and access to technical prep platforms.
- Alumni/2nd Year network: Connect with those who landed roles at your target companies for insights.
2. Research the Company & Role
- Understand the business: Know the company’s products, strategy, and recent news.
- Know the role inside-out: What skills are they looking for? How does your background align? Make the connection.
- Study the interviewer: If possible, look them up on LinkedIn to understand their background. It’s ok to ask the scheduler who will be interviewing and what they hope to cover.
3. Master Behavioral Interviewing
- Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. Place emphasis on your Action.
- Prepare key stories: Have 5-7 strong examples that highlight leadership, problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability. Connect those stories to the postings you’re applying to.
- Rehearse aloud: It helps with confidence and clarity.
4. Sharpen Your Technical & Case Interview Skills (WSP, Exponent, Rocketblocks)
- For finance, consulting, or data-heavy roles: Practice cases, market sizing, financial modeling, or industry-specific questions.
- For marketing, strategy, or general management roles: Prepare for strategic thinking and problem-solving scenarios.
5. Don’t Just Wing It
- “Winging it” might work once, but high performers don’t rely on luck. Preparation reduces stress and boosts confidence.
Athletes & Entertainers Prep—So Should You
- Athletes: Watch game film, practice skills, work with coaches, and visualize success.
- Entertainers: Rehearse lines, perfect stage presence, and refine delivery before the big show.
- You: Research, practice responses, refine communication, and simulate interview conditions.
Bottom Line: Interviewing is a skill. The more you practice, the better you perform when it matters. Treat your job search like a high-stakes event, and you’ll increase your chances of winning the offer.
