Interviewing Proficiency

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Wellesley Career Education

Much of an interviewing process is variable. It can vary based on the interviewer, the role, the organization, the needs of the program, admissions requirements, and the industry. For example, this can include how formal the interview process is, the attire recommended for the interview, or the method of interviewing used by an interviewer. Of the four pillars discussed in this guide, the one pillar that is core to the interviewing process, and that does not vary in its importance is proficiency.

Interviewing Presentation

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Wellesley Career Education

Presenting yourself professionally will come more naturally if you have done your due diligence to prepare for the interview. After you thoroughly research the employer, the role, and yourself, you will be ready to focus on how your presentation skills. These skills are essential to demonstrate from the time you respond to an invitation for an interview to the time you send thank you notes to the interviewers. Aim to be your most genuine, positive, polite self.

Interviewing Preparation

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Wellesley Career Education

As you begin to prepare for an interview, remember that it is essentially a conversation between two people to determine mutual fit. At the end of the conversation the interviewer should be able to determine whether or not you are able to perform the responsibilities required for the job, internship, fellowship or program and you will be able to determine whether or not the organization and role are the right next steps for your talents, taking into consideration your interests, academics and career aspirations.

Informational Interviews

ACE
Advisors for Career Exploration

Informational interviews are a common way to gather information about various careers by speaking with professionals in the field. Through informational interviews, your can explore career paths and job opportunities, as well as gain advice and insight into career industries and companies.

Interviewing: Partnership (Fit)

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Wellesley Career Education

Finding the fit between you and an environment is integral to building a satisfying and successful career. In 1909, Frank Parsons, who is known as the architect of career guidance and counseling services in the United States, developed the framework of Person-Environment Fit (Lapan, 2004). This model supports the idea that people should develop a clear understanding of themselves, gain knowledge of occupational (or educational) opportunities, and engage in a decision-making process that would incorporate this knowledge of self and occupations. An interview is one way that you can gain a clearer understanding of both.

Introduction to Interviewing

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Wellesley Career Education

Career Education's Interviewing Resources are centered around The Four Pillars, or Four P’s (Preparation, Presentation, Proficiency, Partnership) of Interviewing, which serve as the foundation for a successful interviewing experience.

Interviewing Checklist: Reminders for Before, During, and After an Interview

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Wellesley Career Education

This quick reference guide breaks down the essentials of the interview process.

Booking a Room for a Virtual Interview (Guidelines for Student Sign-Ups)

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Wellesley Career Education

Career Education has private interview rooms available for students to book for upcoming virtual interviews with employers.

Career Education Suit Program

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Wellesley Career Education

Is your wardrobe lacking the professional attire required to attend a conference, interview, or meeting? The Career Education Suit Program has quality suiting options for all gender identities in a full range of sizes. Students can choose from jackets, skirts, dresses, and pants. Suits may be borrowed for up to 7 days, with the date of return set upon check out.