How to Ace Your Internship Interview

Do your research

-Read news stories, LinkedIn and the company’s website

Dress to impress

-Always be dressed more smartly than everyone else

-Never wear clothes that are too revealing and cut down on jewellery and perfume.

-If you’re on time then you’re late

-Leave a 15 minute leeway in case of delays or other problems

Early Bird Catches the Worm

Get Contact Details

-Make sure you have a phone number to call in case you are late to the interview

-Send an email to follow up after the interview

Tell Stories

-Prepare stories that demonstrate your skills

-Always start with what the problem was then what actions you took and the eventual result of your actions

Be Prepared

-There are some questions that are universally asked in every industry and preparing answers before your interview will mean you can answer with confidence.

• Tell me about yourself –

-Don’t tell the interviewer your life story, talk about more recent, relevant experiences.

-Two minutes is all you need.

• What are your strengths and weaknesses?

When asked about your weaknesses make sure to explain to the interviewer what you have been doing to address them.

• Describe a time when you faced a challenging situation –

Remember to use the problem, action taken, result formula.

Willing to Learn

-The company will understand that, as an intern, you are not necessarily the most experienced

-Show you are willing to gain experience and are genuinely interested in the company

Be yourself

-The interviewer wants to know that you will fit in with the company culture - don’t be afraid to let a bit of your personality out.

Positive Attitude

-Show your passion for the industry and the position through your knowledge and the way you talk

Body Language

-Greet the interviewer with a firm handshake, sit up straight, don’t fidget, make eye contact

-Identify your twitch so you can learn to control it in interviews.

Ask Questions

-Takes notes during the interview in case there’s anything you want to ask more about or clarify

-Don’t be afraid to ask questions at relevant points throughout the interview

-Show you’re interested and you’ve done your research

Feedback

-At the end of the interview find out the time-frame for a response -Thank the interviewer for their time

-Send a thank you email to the interviewer and express your interest in the position.

-If you don’t hear from the company send an email or give them a call to remind them you’re interested-Don’t chase up more than once

Good Luck!

Specialized in providing Paid Internships in China and Chinese Study Abroad Programs to foreigners worldwide.

www.startupchina.com