The Job Interview Prep Sheet helps job-seekers focus on experiences you feel
are most relevant and match them to the employer's needs. Read more about interviewing
success in our The
Ultimate Guide to Job Interview Preparation.
Using the published job description:
List the main requirements for the job in the first column. Use bullets to
pinpoint key words or phrases. Remember: the job description is the
employer's "Wish List," so do not assume you are not qualified because you
are lacking one or two key qualifications. Self-knowledge and the ability to
effectively articulate your skills, experiences, and strengths are key to offering
transferable skills in lieu of desired qualifications.
In the second column, matched to each bullet point from the first column,
write your specific qualifications and experiences for the position.
The third column provides space to describe stories or anecdotes from your
work, on-campus or community background that support what you say are your
qualifications and experiences that meet the employer's needs. Think about these
stories so that you can elaborate on them in great detail if asked. They become
the basis for behavior-based interviews and help you provide concrete examples.
[Editor's note: To read more about behavior-based interviews, see our article,
Behavioral
Interviewing Strategies]. The stories are what really count in an interview.
They tell your story; they sell you to the interviewer, and they provide rich material
for illustrating your ability to do the job. They also suggest follow-up questions that
you can answer because you are prepared!
Job Interview Prep Sheet
Position Requirements
Your Qualifications and Experience
Your "Stories"
Example: Ability to work well with others
Example: Leadership activities on-campus
Example: Coordinated volunteers to produce on-campus event
(Fill in with details to illustrate your results and accomplishments.)
Have you taken advantage of all of our job
interviewing resources? Find articles, tutorials, and more -- all written to help job-seekers
succeed on your job interviews.
