How to Stand Out

What should you wear? What questions will you be asked? What questions should you ask? We’ll help you prepared and stand out during an interview.

On this page:

What to Bring

Being prepared is the number one way to impress during an interview, and that includes not showing up empty-handed. Here's a list of things you might want to bring to your interview.

  • Copies of your resume/CV
  • A pen
  • A notepad
  • List of references
  • Notes with talking points/examples of your experiences
  • A list of prepared questions to ask
  • Portfolio (if you have one) or examples of your work
  • Folder/Briefcase (optional)
  • Business cards (optional)
  • Directions and contact information
  • Driver’s Licenses or Passport
  • A smile and positive energy
Map Out Directions Ahead of Time

Take the time before your interview, to get directions and even practice finding your interview location. There's nothing worse than looking sharp but showing up late because you got lost on the way to the interview.

What to Wear

When it comes to dressing for an in-person or video interview, think trendy, but conservative. Choose a classic suit coat, dress, shirt and pants or skirt. Wear clothing that is clean, wrinkle-free and fits you properly. This will show that you mean business.

A new suit isn't in your budget?

Try visiting local thrift stores for a slightly used one.

Tips on Tying a Tie

Following along with Bob as he shows you three different ways to tie a tie.

Screenshot of the video "Tips on Tying a Tie with Bob."

What to Say

What you talk about and how you say it can make or break your chances of getting hired. Here's how you can describe your skills and experiences.

Highlight Your Skills How to Answer Interview Questions Asking Questions

What skills do you bring? No matter your field of study, it’s important to speak their language and demonstrate how your academic experiences translate to workplace performance.

Good news—you’ve likely already started to develop important skills that employers seek through your academic and extracurricular activities.

Based on nationally recognized criteria from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).

Skill Sets

Critical Thinking/Problem Solving

Exercise sound reasoning to analyze issues, make decisions and overcome problems. The individual is able to obtain, interpret and use knowledge, facts, and data in this process, and may demonstrate originality and inventiveness.

Oral/Written Communications

Articulate thoughts and ideas clearly and effectively in written and oral forms to persons inside and outside of the organization. The individual has public speaking skills; is able to express ideas to others; and can write/edit memos, letters and complex technical reports clearly and effectively.

Teamwork/Collaboration

Build collaborative relationships with colleagues and customers representing diverse cultures, races, ages, genders, religions, lifestyles and viewpoints. The individual is able to work within a team structure and can negotiate and manage conflict.

Digital Technology

Leverage existing digital technologies ethically and efficiently to solve problems, complete tasks, and accomplish goals. The individual demonstrates effective adaptability to new and emerging technologies.

Leadership

Leverage the strengths of others to achieve common goals and use interpersonal skills to coach and develop others. The individual is able to assess and manage their emotions and those of others; use empathetic skills to guide and motivate; and organize, prioritize and delegate work.

Professionalism/Work Ethic

Demonstrate personal accountability and effective work habits, e.g., punctuality, working productively with others, and time workload management, and understand the impact of non-verbal communication on professional work image. The individual demonstrates integrity and ethical behavior, acts responsibly with the interests of the larger community in mind, and is able to learn from his/her mistakes.

Career Management

Identify and articulate one's skills, strengths, knowledge, and experiences relevant to the position desired and career goals, and identify areas necessary for professional growth. The individual is able to navigate and explore job options, understands and can take the steps necessary to pursue opportunities, and understands how to self-advocate for opportunities in the workplace.

Global/Intercultural Fluency

Value, respect and learn from diverse cultures, races, ages, genders, sexual orientations, and religions. The individual demonstrates, openness, inclusiveness, sensitivity and the ability to interact respectfully with all people and understand individuals’ differences.

What's Next

Shine like a star when you answer those experience questions.