Texas Tech University

Interviews

“jobfair

Overview

This page is intended to assist in improving your networking and interviewing skills. Included in this page are best practices from the University Career Center (UCC). Information and sample conversation starters, responses, and questions within this page are not intended to be used verbatim. In order to network and interview successfully, you need two components: 1) Know yourself well, and 2) Understand the needs of the organization. Ensure you stand out from the crowd by demonstrating both components.

The interview is the single most important aspect in job hunting. Good grades, an excellent degree, lengthy experience, and a sharp-looking resume won't compensate for a poor impression made during an interview. You must be able to sell yourself effectively. More often than not, it is the small details such as appearance, handshake, etc., that spell the difference between being selected or rejected for a job. Be thorough in your preparation! Since each interview is unique, the more you interview, the more confident and skillful you will become.

The resources this page are available to all students and alumni. Take advantage of the University Career Center and the services we offer! Make an appointment with us!

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Types of Interviews

There are many types of interviews. They can be used in combination with one another to provide hiring managers and committees in-depth data about each candidate. In a structured interview, each candidate is asked similar questions in a predetermined format. Unstructured interviews are more casual and unrehearsed.

Below are the most common types of interviews.

Traditional Interviews 
The applicant is asked questions that require either factual responses or personal opinions. For example, “What is your major” calls for a factual answer, while “What is your greatest weakness” requires an opinion.

Behavioral Interviews 
The interviewer asks questions based on the idea that past experiences predict future behavior. Answers to these questions provide examples of what was accomplished or what skills were used in the past. Answers to behavioral questions require validation of the skills needed for the position. 

For example, “Tell me about a time you missed an important deadline and how you handled it.” The interviewer may ask a probing question that elicits more details. Behavioral questions are intended to determine actual abilities and skills relevant to the job. Use the STAR method to answer behavioral questions (see "During the Interview" tab for more information).

Mass Interviews
Many large companies will create a specific date and location for invitation-only candidates to interview with multiple managers. These mass interviews generally take place after candidates have been prescreened through other venues such as university job fairs.

Panel Interviews 
In a panel interview, one applicant is interviewed by multiple interviewers. Generally a panel interview takes place at a conference table and several interviewers take turns asking questions. Make eye contact with all interviewers when answering questions. In some instances, the members of the panel may meet individually with the interviewee.

Phone Interviews 
Generally a phone interview is a prescreening interview or a first interview for a candidate who is not local. It helps the company assess fit with their culture and the position. A successful phone interview may lead to an in-person interview.

For phone interviews, dress as if interviewing in person. Take the phone interview just as seriously as any other interview. 

  • Stand up – walking can help alleviate nervousness and standing will make your voice clear and confident.
  • Look in a mirror – make eye contact with yourself and smile to remain engaged and enthusiastic throughout the interview.
  • Turn off call waiting to avoid interruptions during the interview.
  • Create a quiet environment with no distractions – no barking dogs, no TV, no children, no driving. 

Video Interview (Skype, Zoom, Google Hangouts, etc.)
These types of interviews are a cost-effective way to prescreen candidates.

  • Dress for the interview: be sure to dress from head to toe for the interview, as you may need to stand or be seen on camera in full view.
  • Create a professional setting from the interviewer’s point of view. It should be organized, neat, and well-lit.
  • Be professional with facial expressions and tone of voice. This mode of interview can be awkward for both the candidate and the interviewer, so be sure to look at the camera when speaking and at the screen when listening. Looking at the camera is like looking the other person in the eye. Looking at the screen, moves your face down so eye contact is lost.
  • Ensure a quiet space and treat this interview just as a face-to-face interview.
  • While this video may seem dated, all the information is valid and helpful. Watch this video for a quick demonstration of lighting and setting for a video interview.
    (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rQwanxQmFnc#action=share)

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Interview Prep

The purpose of an interview is to give you, as a candidate, the opportunity to showcase your skills, education, personal attributes, and experiences that make you a strong fit for the company. If you've been invited to an interview, the employer already believes you meet the basic qualifications on paper. Now is your chance to demonstrate your enthusiasm, alignment with the organization’s values, and how you can contribute to its success. An interview is also your opportunity to assess whether the company is a good fit for you. Finally, the goal is to leave a strong impression and receive a job offer!

Conduct a Self-Assessment:

In your interview, you want to be yourself. Your attitude is going to influence the interviewer's evaluation. Don't try to be someone you aren't. Emphasize your strong points and remember that the recruiter is looking for inherent personal energy and enthusiasm. The interview is your opportunity to sell a product and that product is you.The University Career Center offers multiple assessments you can take to understand yourself better. However, you can assess yourself. Take an honest look at yourself focusing on such factors as:

  1. Personality - What kind of person are you? Strengths? Weaknesses?
  2. Interests - What do you enjoy doing?
  3. Abilities/Skills - What do you do well?
  4. Values - Why do you want to work?
  5. Goals - Where would you like to be in five years?
  6. Experience - What have you accomplished?

Research the Organization
A great technique for reducing anxiety surrounding the interview process is to prepare thoroughly for the interview. It is important to research the company; focus on what makes them different from similar companies, their mission or overall goal, and their future goals. During the interview focus on your contributions to these goals.

Study Examples:

  1. Review company literature.
  2. Prepare important and relevant questions for the interview sessions.
  3. Ask others about the organization.
  4. Develop a clear understanding as to why you have selected them.
  5. Try and discover problems the organization may have and reflect on how you might be able to help them.
  6. Check appearance:
    1. If possible visit the organization. If not, review the staff bio page.
    2. Notice how employees are dressed.
    3. Pay attention to grooming, styles, etc.

Prepare Stories
Practice several different types of stories that will assist you in answering behavioral or situational questions. (See "During the Interview" tab for more information).

What to Bring
Bring multiple copies of your resume, a list of references that can be left with the prospective employer, a list of open-ended questions to ask when prompted, and padfolio and pen for notes during the interview.

Arrive Early
Plan to arrive 10 to 15 minutes before your interview to demonstrate professionalism and respect for the interviewer’s time. This window gives you a chance to collect your thoughts and be ready without putting pressure on the interviewer's schedule.

Remember, the interview begins the moment you exit your car or enter the building. Be courteous, professional, and friendly to everyone you encounter, before and after the interview; you never know who may be part of the hiring process. Finally, be sure to silence or turn off your phone to avoid any distractions.

Focus on the Positive 
Try and focus on the positive. While past failures and shortcomings do not need to be volunteered, don’t try to cover them up or sidestep them. Should the recruiter ask about these events or situations, try to explain the circumstances rather than give excuses or blame others. Remember, the recruiter is human and probably has made a few mistakes. You'll create a better impression by being honest and candid.

SOME DO'S AND DON'TS IN SUCCESSFUL INTERVIEWING

DO's

  • Act natural
  • Be prompt, neat, and courteous
  • Bring copies of your resume
  • Carry out promises
  • Ask relevant questions
  • Allow employer to express themselves
  • Read company literature
  • Examine company ratings
  • Evaluate objectively
  • Follow procedures
  • Make yourself understood
  • Listen to the other person
  • Present informative credentials
  • Keep an interview file with all the stuff you need in it. Take notes if you feel like you need to remember important info from the interview
  • Follow up with personalized thank you letters

DON'Ts

  • Criticize yourself
  • Be late for your interview
  • Freeze or become tense
  • Present an extremist appearance
  • Become impatient
  • Become emotional
  • Talk too much or too little
  • Oversell your case
  • Draw out interview
  • Make elaborate promises
  • Come unprepared
  • Try to be funny
  • Unduly emphasize starting salary
  • Linger over fringe benefits

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Professional Dress

Why Professional Dress Matters
Your appearance communicates confidence, respect, and professionalism. Whether you're attending a career fair, interviewing for a job, or starting a new position, dressing appropriately helps you make a strong first impression.

Dress Codes Explained

  • Business Professional: Suit and tie, dress shirt, tailored dresses or skirts, closed-toe shoes.
  • Business Casual: Collared shirts, blouses, slacks or khakis, casual dresses, clean and professional footwear.
  • Casual/Creative Fields: Neat jeans, polished tops, clean sneakers may be acceptable, but neatness is key.
Watch this video for more information about different dress codes:

Virtual Interviews

  • Dress professionally from head to toe for virtual meetings.
  • Ensure your background is tidy and free of distractions.
  • Check your lighting so your face is clearly visible.

Budget-Friendly Tips

  • Shop at thrift stores or online resale platforms.
  • Visit your campus "career closet" if available.
  • Invest in versatile basics that can be mixed and matched.
  • Check out annual event JCPenney Suit Up hosted by your University Career Center that offers steep discounts.

Cultural Sensitivity and Personal Expression

Professional dress can look different depending on cultural, religious, and personal backgrounds. Express yourself while maintaining neatness, appropriateness, and attention to the expectations of your industry.

Quick Checklist Before You Go:

Are my clothes clean, ironed, and free from holes?
Am I wearing neutral or subtle colors?
Are my shoes clean and professional?
Is my hair tidy and facial hair groomed?
Is my jewelry simple and limited?
Have I avoided strong scents?
Is my device silenced?

Remember: The best thing you can wear is confidence. Dressing the part helps you feel the part!

Clothing Item Overview

Clothing: Clothes should be well-fitting, wrinkle-free, and in good condition.

  • Tops: Dark, neutral colors and subtle patterns are acceptable.
    • Blazers and cardigans are suggested options.
    • Sleeves should end just below the wrist.
    • Tops should fully cover the midriff; crop tops or clothing that shows the stomach are not appropriate.
  • Bottoms: Nice slacks, casual dresses, and skirts are acceptable.
    • No athletic wear or jeans.
  • Dresses and Skirts: Skirts and dresses should hit at the knee.
    • Thighs should be covered when sitting down.

Accessories

  • Ties: Should not distract.
  • Belts: Should match pants and socks.
  • Jewelry: No more than three pieces of jewelry should be worn.
  • Bags: Avoid oversized bags. Padfolios (professional folders) are ideal.
  • Shoes: Should be neat and clean. Should be closed-toed; no flip-flops or open-toed shoes.
  • Grooming: Hair should be kept out of your eyes. Facial hair should be clean-shaven or neatly trimmed. Avoid strong perfumes or colognes.
  • Technology: Devices (like phones and smart watches) should be silenced or left behind.

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Stages of an Interview

STAGE 1: FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Topics:

  • Introduction: light conversation about sports, weather, traffic, etc.
  • Interviewer Expectations: Good, firm handshake; eye contact; proper interview attire/grooming.

STAGE 2: YOUR QUALIFICATIONS
Topics:

  • Education: grades, choice of school and major, special interests, and achievements.
  • Work: Types of jobs held, level of responsibility experienced, tasks enjoyed most and least, what was gained.
    • Which of your experiences has been most rewarding to you?
    • What type of work environment appeals to you?
    • What skills have you developed?
  • Activities and Interests: Role in campus organizations, fraternities, sororities, extracurricular activities, hobbies, sports, cultural interests.
    • Are you active in any organizations or clubs?
    • What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

Interviewer Questions:

  • What led you to choose your field of study?
  • What subjects did you like best? Why?
  • Do your grades accurately reflect your capabilities?

Interviewer Expectations:

  • Intelligence
  • Knowledge
  • Interests
  • Willingness to work
  • Maturity
  • Ability to handle responsibility
  • Leadership
  • Attitude
  • Enthusiasm

STAGE 3: CAREER GOALS
Topics:

  • Immediate and long-term objectives, interest in the company, geographical preferences.

Interviewer Questions:

  • Immediate and long-term objectives, interest in the company, geographical preferences.
  • What are your long-range and short-range goals and objectives?
  • When and why did you establish these goals?
  • How are you preparing yourself to achieve them?
  • What do you see yourself doing five years from now?
  • How would you describe yourself?
  • What motivates you to put forth your greatest effort
  • What qualifications do you have that make you think that you will be successful?
  • In what ways do you think you can make a contribution to our company?

Interviewer Expectations:

  • Realistic knowledge of strengths and weaknesses
  • Knowledge of opportunities
  • Interest in the company
  • Serious interest in career

STAGE 4: THE COMPANY
Topics:

  • Company opportunities, training programs, corporate structure, benefits and educational opportunities, chances for promotion.

Interviewer Questions:

  • Why did you decide to seek a position with this company?
  • What do you know about our company?
  • What are your geographical preferences?
  • Will you relocate?
  • Willing to travel?

Interviewer Expectations:

  • Informed and relevant questions
  • Sincere interest in the company
  • Appropriate but not undue interest in salary and benefits

STAGE 5: CONCLUSION
Topics:

  • Ask the interviewer questions about the position, opportunities, office culture, or company (see "Questions for the Interviewer" tab for more information).
  • What you should do next (fill out applications, send transcripts, forward references), further steps the company will take, when you will be notified of interview results, cordial farewell.

Interviewer Expectations:

  • Candidate's attention to information as a sign of continued interest.

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During the Interview

Interview Questions

Tell me about yourself.
From the interviewer’s point of view, the purpose of this question is to break the ice and get the candidate to talk. As the candidate, use this opportunity to share what you want the prospective employer to know. The answer should last no longer than 60 seconds. Use this question to guide the interview, so the follow-up questions focus on information you provide. Do NOT memorize a script! Remember, answering this question does not require giving a full biography of yourself. Select information that is relevant to the job and that the hiring manager should know. Do not repeat the resume!

Components of the Answer

  • Brief personal background information, if applicable; avoid illegal interview topics (see "Illegal Interview Questions" tab for more information).
  • Educational experience: university attended, major, graduation date, any pertinent courses taken.
  • Related experience, internships, work, organizations, or volunteer experience.
  • Top relevant skills and qualities.
  • State your interest in the position.

Why our company? 
For this question, demonstrate that you have researched the organization. In your answer, indicate that you are not just looking for any position, but rather that you are seeking a position at this specific organization. If possible, set yourself apart from other candidates by demonstrating how you can contribute to the company’s goals. 

What are your strengths?
Make sure the strengths you mention are related and useful to the position. Rather than providing a list of your strengths, you may wish to share 1 or 2 strengths with examples. Providing examples with specific stories will make your answers more credible and memorable.

What are your weaknesses?
The majority of the interview should be focused on positive information. However, do not avoid talking about negative points, but remain as positive as possible throughout the interview. Unless asked, share only one weakness. Think of a weakness as a strength taken a little too far. Share when you noticed the weakness, the steps you have taken to overcome it, and finish with how much you have improved in this area.

Where do you see yourself in 5, 10, 15 years or the future?
Interviewers want to see that you have an interest in the field, are ambitious and goal oriented, and are considering how you can contribute to the field. It is fine if you are a little vague with this response because you do not need to have your future completely mapped out.

Why should we consider you for this position instead of other equally qualified candidates?
There is little time in an interview, so focus on what you can contribute because they are actually asking, “what makes you unique?” Therefore, focus on how you can uniquely contribute, pulling from three specific areas: 1) your education, 2) your experience, and 3) your personal attributes.

Behavioral Interview Questions
Behavioral questions ask about your behavior in a past situation and the results. The questions will either be positively or negatively focused. If the focus is negative (tell about a time you missed a deadline), it is your job to bring them to a positive conclusion. For these questions, prepare several different types of stories but do not memorize your responses. With behavioral questions they are asking for specific examples, not general statements. In order to answer these questions more smoothly, you can use any behavioral method such as STAR, SAR, SARA, or CAR. 

  • Situation – what happened?
  • Task – what task did you need to complete?
  • Action – what actions did you take? Elaborate on this section.
  • Result – the result should always be positive.

Negative Interview Questions
Interviewers may ask questions designed to assess how you handle conflict or negative situations. When discussing a challenging experience, focus on what you learned and how you grew from it. This helps turn a negative into a positive.

For example, if asked, “Tell me about a professor or supervisor you didn’t like and why,” avoid blaming others. Instead, use “I” statements to take ownership of your experience—such as, “I wasn’t initially used to their management style, but I learned to adapt by…” Always end your response with a constructive takeaway or positive outcome to show emotional maturity and growth.

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List of Possible Interview Questions

About You
1. What experience have you had?
2. Briefly describe your background for me – include high school, college, and activities you were involved in. What were your main interests during those periods?
3. What are your strengths and weaknesses?
4. What were your challenges during your internship? How did you handle them?
5. Do you prefer working with groups of people or alone?
6. Tell me about your experience. Where? Was this a pleasant or unpleasant experience?
7. Describe your ideal manager. 
8. Why should I hire you instead of other qualified applicants?

Motivation 
9. Why did you decide to become a _____________? 
10. What are your future plans?
11. How do you respond when a friend asks you the question – “What do you do all day in this job?”
12. What kinds of extracurricular activities are you interested in?
13. What kinds of decisions do you enjoy making the most? The least?

Relationships with Coworkers
14. How would you provide for individual differences within the workplace? 
15. What kind of relationships would you like to have with your peers? 
16. Tell me about a memorable problem you resolved collaboratively. 

Relationships with Colleagues 
17. What characteristics do you look for in management?
18. What kind of relationships would you like to have with your managers?
19. How do you think _______________ should be evaluated at the end of the first year? How would you like to be evaluated?

Job and Field-specific Strategies and Techniques
20. What are the current methods and resources in your field?
21. What new or different ideas would you implement in our system?
22. What professional organizations do you belong to? What type of positions have you held in these organizations?
23. What do you think should and can be done to improve communication between colleagues and managers? 

Organization Specific
24. How do you feel about living in our community?
25. Are you involved in community activities?
26. What can you offer our community outside working hours?
27. Describe some particularly tough problems you have had to deal with and how you handled those problems.

Random Questions 
28. If you could be any color in a bag of M&Ms, what color would you be and why?
29. If you could be any brick on a wall, what brick would you be and why?
30. Your life is a novel; what is the title? Why? 
31. If you could pick a famous person to interview, who would you pick and why?

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Prompting AI for Example  Interview Questions:

To get the best and most tailored results from ChatGPT for interview prep, a student should give clear context and be specific about. Here are some things to consider for how you would prompt AI for a graduate or professional school interview:

  • The type of program (e.g., medical school, law school, MBA, PhD in psychology)
  • What stage they’re at (e.g., just starting prep, mock interview soon, need behavioral questions, etc.)
  • What kind of questions they want (e.g., traditional, behavioral, ethical dilemmas, situational)
  • Any particular focus areas (e.g., research experience, leadership, career goals)

Example Prompt for ChatGPT:

  • "I'm preparing for a medical school interview. Can you give me 10 common traditional interview questions and 5 ethical dilemma questions I might be asked? Also, please include tips on how to approach each type."

Other Helpful Prompt Ideas:

  • “Can you simulate a mock interview for an MBA program and ask me follow-up questions based on my responses?”
  • “Give me behavioral interview questions for a grad program in clinical psychology, focusing on teamwork and resilience.”
  • “I’m applying to a law school — can you give me questions that test my reasoning, current affairs awareness, and motivation for law?”

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Incorporating Marketable Skills

Marketable skills are identified by employers as necessary for a specific career or field. As you think about your previous experience, knowledge gained from course projects, and involvement in organizations, you will see that you have skills that are marketable across many fields.

Marketable skills include specific skills such as planning events or managing projects. Marketable skills also include transferable skills – those skills that would move with you to any job or field. Your ability to communicate and apply critical thinking skills are two examples of transferable skills.

Everyone has transferable and marketable skills. First, the skills must be identified and then they must be demonstrated in the resume and in the interview. Incorporating these skills into the interview using your achievements will demonstrate self-awareness. In addition, including marketable skills shows that you understand the needs of the company and what you bring to the position to meet those needs.

For example, say you are being interviewed for a position that requires communication and the company highly values team work: I highly value the importance of clear communication. In my previous role, it was my job to make sure events ran smoothly and a large part of that was making sure everyone on the team knew the big picture and their role in making it come to fruition. For example, before the event, I emailed everyone a list of who was on the team, what their role was, and when each task needed to be completed. I learned that doing this not only eliminated confusion, but allowed the rest of the team to help each other and solve problems when I was attending to other matters. 

Breakdown of the example:

  • Start by communicating the skill you would like to showcase, based on the position and company
    • Clear communication
  • Communicate context of the skill being used
    • Previous job success required clear communication with their team
  • Provide a specific example of the skill being used
    • Before an event, they communicated with their team by emailing specifics about roles
  • Finish with what you learned about it's importance
    • They learned that clear communication eliminates confusion and fosters autonomy with the team.

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Questions for Interviewers

Asking good questions can demonstrate an interest in the company. It is important to come to an interview prepared with several questions to demonstrate your interest. You may wish to have a few extra questions prepared in case they answer some of your questions throughout the interview.

So, ask meaningful questions at the end of the interview, particularly if you're not clear about the details of the job, the training program, or other job-related concerns. Don't ask questions just because you think that's what is expected, or to try to show off your intellect. Ask questions that will help you decide whether you want to work for this organization and/or to set yourself up for success in the role.

Evaluate your interview questions using these criteria: 

  • Is it open-ended?
  • Does it reflect that you researched the job and company?
  • Does it demonstrate that you are thinking about how you can contribute to their organization?

Job Interview Questions is a free site used by more than a hundred universities and colleges across the country. Find interview questions specific to the position you are interviewing for based on the skills and qualities needed to do the job.

Example questions to ask the INTERVIEWER:

What personality traits do you consider critical to success in this job?
Describe typical first year assignments on the job?
What is the best part about working for XYZ?
What is the timetable for filling this position?
What parts of your job are most challenging?
What recent changes have forced your company to re-focus its efforts?
What has the impact of these efforts been?
What are the most important personal satisfactions connected with your job?

Before you leave the interview, do not forget to thank them for the opportunity and ask for a business card in case you have any follow-up questions. By getting the business card, you have their contact information to write them a brief thank you note (see "After the Interview" tab for more information about thank you notes).

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Illegal Interview Questions

There are several reasons that illegal or inappropriate questions might be asked during an interview. One reason is that the interviewer is unaware that certain questions are illegal. A second reason is that the interviewer wants specific information and will ask the illegal question to get it. 

Illegal interview questions are prohibited by law because they are used to discover personal information that is not specifically related to the candidate’s ability to perform the job functions. Information from these illegal questions might be used to discriminate against protected groups of citizens. Employers may ask specific questions if the question is clearly related to the qualifications or responsibilities of the job.

For additional information, see the Fair Inquiry Guidelines established by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)

How to Respond If Asked Illegal Questions
You have several options if you are asked illegal questions during an interview. First, recognize the differences between questions that may be inappropriate, but are not illegal. For example, “tell me a joke” may be inappropriate during an interview, but it is perfectly legal. These legal questions may be intended to determine creativity or how you react when put on the spot.

Possible responses to illegal questions:

  • Answer the question if you are willing to divulge the information. 
  • Ask for clarification. For example, ask “How is this related to the position?” Or ask, “How will this impact the position?”
  • Answer the legal version of the question. For example, if you are asked if you plan to have more children, do not answer yes or no. Instead, provide a more inclusive answer, “I do not have obligations that prevent me from fulfilling the job requirements.”
  • Be prepared to lose that opportunity if you point out that the question is illegal! However, in some instances, the illegal question may be a test of your ethics related to the job requirements or to test your knowledge related to job functions.

It is a good strategy to already have in mind exactly how you plan to respond to illegal questions during an interview. It isn’t necessary to come up with answers to specific questions, just be aware of how you intend to either answer or deflect such questions.

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To Disclose or Not to Disclose?

For job seekers, disclosing a disability is a personal choice. In most cases, if a person can complete the hiring process without having to disclose a disability, it may be best to wait until after a job offer has been made – that is, if disclosure will happen at all. If you are considering whether you need to disclose a disability during your job search, ask yourself the following questions:

  • Are you able to perform the essential functions of the job?
  • Is the disability apparent? If the disability is not immediately apparent, will it become so over time?

If you decide that you do need to disclose a disability, you might find that “What are your strengths?”, “Tell me about a time you overcame a challenge,”, or “Tell me about a time you met a goal you set for yourself,” can provide an opportunity to highlight your personal growth and development and to positively reframe a situation that could be perceived negatively.

Practice! Practice this conversation with a UCC staff member, with a trusted friend or mentor, or by yourself. Below are some points that may help and can be adapted as needed to fit your unique situation.

  • Share general information about your disability. Explain why you are disclosing your disability and how it affects your ability to perform job tasks.
  • Identify the types of accommodations that have worked for you in the past.
  • Describe the types of accommodations you anticipate needing in the workplace. 

Resources
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commisson (EEOC) is responsible for enforcing federal laws regarding discrimination. The Job Accommodation Network (JAN) has extensive information for applicants and employers on the types of accomodations available for individuals. 

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After the Interview

After the interview, write a few notes to remember the interview questions and other details. This information can be helpful for writing thank you notes and for any type of second interview or follow up you might have with the company. 

Thank You Letter
Always send a thank you letter; it is acceptable to send either an email or handwritten note. It demonstrates your enthusiasm and appreciation for the opportunity and can make the difference between getting the job or not. Send a brief, to-the-point email to each person who interviewed you. Check the letter for spelling and grammar mistakes. Ensure that the interviewer’s name and title are correct.

  • Thank the interviewers for their time and the opportunity to interview.
  • Mention something specific (a question, etc.) that occurred during the interview.
  • Emphasize skills, strengths, and abilities you can bring to the job.
  • Express your interest in the position.

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Responding to a Job Offer

Salary Negotiations

What is Total Compensation?
Total Compensation is salary plus benefits. Take time to research health insurance, retirement system policies, personal days, and sick leave. Look at the potential options offered by the company, including:

  • Tuition assistance for advanced study
  • Merit-pay alternatives
  • Bonuses
  • Release time to work with your mentor

Can you negotiate?
Yes, salary negotiation is an option. You may receive additional incentives if you have experience or skills in a selected field. It is not a good practice to negotiate salary just to be negotiating. Only negotiate when you have a compelling reason; you are in a better position to negotiate if you have more than one job offer.

  • Additionally, you can make an appointment with one of the Career Center's Career Development Specialists to practice and discuss salary negotiation strategies through Raider Success Hub

There are three critical factors involved in negotiating: power, information, and time.

  • Power: Learn about the real power factors involved. What is your power over the other side of the table? Do you have a relationship of any kind with the interviewer?
  • Information: Good negotiating requires gathering information and planning your approach. You will need to articulate clearly your strengths and abilities to meet the needs of the company. 
  • Timing: Know the employer’s timeframe as well as your own. The best time to negotiate is after a serious job offer has been made and before you have accepted it.

Signing the Contract
The contract is a binding legal document; read it carefully and ask questions to verify and clarify details. Having signed the contract, you are legally committed to that position for the agreed timeframe. Your reputation and that of TTU suffers if you accept an offer and later renege. 

For more information about salary negotiation, visit our web page or make an appointment on Raider Success Hub with one of our career development specialists.

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UCC Interviewing Resources

The UCC offers several options for building your networking and interviewing skills. Take advantage of one or more of the following services available to students and alumni:

Career Coaching: The UCC has counselors available to meet with students and alumni by appointment. Sessions can cover a variety of topics, including resume development, job search strategies, interviewing skills, and other career related concerns. As job candidates, you will need to participate in both one-on-one and panel mock interviews.

Events and Webinars: Each semester the UCC offers several events and webinars on various topics, including resume writing, interviewing, networking, job searching and more! 

Online Resources: The UCC offers numerous online resources to assist students with their career development, including application documents, job search strategies, interviewing, and salary negotiation.

  • The UCC includes resources on events, career exploration and development, job boards, and instructions on creating a credentials file.
  • O*NET OnLine is a government website which provides occupational information for over 900 occupations.

Contact the UCC to schedule an appointment or utilize Raider Success Hub!

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Current students, log in to Raider Success Hub to schedule an appointment online.
Alumni, call our front desk (806-742-2210) to schedule your appointment. 

Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

For questions about accommodations or accessibility, please call 806-742-2210 or email us at careercenter@ttu.edu in advance of your participation or visit.