If you’re anything like me (and with all likelihood being that you are a Harvard student, then you are), then you also tend to stress about interviews. For me, it doesn’t matter what the stakes are. The very act of subjecting myself to questioning and waiting indefinitely for what feels like the Final Judgment is enough to make me think twice about applying for anything at all.

I’m happy to report, however, that there is hope. The friendly, funny, and dynamic Linda Spencer of the Office of Career Services recently led a workshop on how to prepare and execute a winning interview – to much success. To illustrate, let’s walk through some common questions or scenarios that you might face.

It’s Monday. The interview is on Friday. What can I do??

The most important step? Do something. “Don’t just show up,” said Linda. “This is a competitive process; it’s a chance to market yourself.” Namely, you’ll want to do a healthy amount of research into three critical areas:

•  YOU: “It won’t be enough to talk about how you will benefit from the job, or how you will grow, or anything like that,” said Linda. “Reflect carefully on how you will add value to the company.” For example, what are your top three skills? What are your long-term career goals? Know yourself, and everything becomes that much easier.
• THE POSITION: Make sure you know what you’re signing up for. Resources like Crimson Compass – a database of Harvard alumni who have explicitly volunteered for career advising – will help you build your network and get a real sense of what a job is like.
• THE ORGANIZATION: Why do you want to work for Happy & Co.? How will you add value to your team? Your department? The industry at-large? Know the needs of your prospective employer. “Remember, if they called you for an interview, you’re qualified, and they’re interested,” said Linda. “Now, it’s about finding the right fit.”

So, what do I wear to the interview?

A good rule of thumb: you will be more dressed up than the company’s employees. Of course there are exceptions: Linda recalled a story about a Google recruiter who, when asked by a student what applicants should wear to a Google interview, waved his hand around the room and said, “You all would be fine. Just don’t wear pajama pants!” Again, know your employer. More often than not, you’ll be dressed up, but do your research in advance.

Should I bring anything?

…other than your charm and your best smile? All joking aside, a few critical items may come in handy. Have a few extra copies of your resume on hand, in case they are requested. Bring a pen and paper to take notes if necessary. (Pro tip: you can write down questions for your interviewer on the paper you bring.) And carry everything in a simple but nice portfolio.

Anything else?

You definitely want to make sure you know where you’re going, and when you’re going there. Linda especially cautioned students participating in the OCI program, since interviews can be scattered across Harvard Square and a mistake could be very costly. Also, make time to practice! You can sign up for mock interviews with OCS, or you can lock yourself in a room and talk to your mirror. No matter how you do it, just make sure you’re comfortable with interview questions.

OK, I have a telephone interview first…help me?

Have no fear! Telephone interviews are nearly identical to in-person interviews, except that you can’t respond to visual cues. That being said, you can take steps to set yourself up for success: use a landline (or be sure your cell phone is charged); have notes with you, if helpful; and pay careful attention to what you hear and how you speak.

I’m moving on to the second round! What’s the strategy now?

It may be helpful to think about the interview in three phases.

1.     “Rapport Building”: The relationship with your prospective employer begins when you pull into the parking lot. (“If you see a free parking spot and someone else is eyeing it, too, let them take it!” said Linda. “That person could be your interviewer!”) Be conscious of your surroundings and acknowledge the people you meet with confidence and warmth. Take special notice of receptionists – they are sometimes called upon to give feedback on candidates to their superiors. Remember: studies say that we take just seven seconds to build a first impression, so make it positive!

2.    Question & Answer: A familiar step this may be, but nevertheless you need to be on your game. “Each time you’re asked a question, the ‘microphone’ has been thrown to you,” Linda explained. “Take advantage of the opportunity.” Employers are looking for intangibles – attitude, poise, confidence – so how you say things can be just as important as what you’re saying. Stay calm, think carefully, and address “the question behind each question” – try to get at the heart of the information the interviewer wants.

3.     Closing & Follow-up: End your interview with a “closing statement” of sorts. As Linda explained, companies are investing in you simply by inviting you to interview, but they still don’t know if you’ll work for them. Make sure they know you want the job, and why! And don’t let your interview end at the door. Ask your interviewer for a business card. Send them a token of acknowledgment within 24-48 hours – an email, or a small card – thanking them for their time.

Keep in mind that your interview can greatly enhance your application. “Hiring is a subjective process,” explained Linda. “It’s not always the best person on paper who gets the job. The bottom line is that employers will hire people they like.” Be yourself, of course, but don’t be afraid to “turn up the volume” on your unique strengths and your personality.

For more information, click here. Good luck!

—Nicandro Iannacci, ’13