Attitude

You have to make them want to hire you. There are two very easy ways to do that. First, be enthusiastic. Try to be the kind of co-worker you’d like to encounter early Monday morning. Be excited about the position you’re applying for. A good way to make this easier is to get a good night’s sleep. Don’t stay up worrying about your interview the next day. You’re a Stanford student- they’re also afraid you’ll say no to them, not just the other way around. Second, be confident. Show off your finest qualities! Don’t be afraid to say “I’ll be awesome at this job because...” Also, you never want to come across as desperate for the job. Even if they do hire you, it will be very hard for you to earn respect in your position.

What to say

Before the interview, research the position you’re applying for. Don’t ask stupid questions, such as ones that are answered in the first few lines of the job description on the company’s website. Also, if possible, know a little background information about the person(s) who will be interviewing you. It can never hurt to establish some common ground (“I golf there all the time!”). That said, don’t be afraid to ask intelligent questions and take notes. You’re also there to interview your interviewer, to find out if this is really where you’d like to work. Write out some questions beforehand. Make sure you listen attentively to answers, because potential employers may also be judging you on this important skill. What’s also important is how you phrase your questions and answers. Speak in a friendly but subdued manner, enthusiastic but sophisticated. And remember never to ask personal questions or insinuate something about your interviewer or employer. It sounds obvious, but be careful something doesn’t just slip out.

Greeting and departure

When you meet your interviewer, shake hands and say “Nice to meet you” or “A pleasure to see you again” or “I think we spoke on the phone last Thursday.” Smile. Firmly grasp his or her hand in yours; this is part of being confident. When the interview is over, shake hands again and say something appropriate about how you will next interact. Make sure you know who will contact whom. Are you supposed to follow up in a week? Will they call you? Find out, and refer to that moment confidently, not cockily, as you take your leave. For example, “I look forward to hearing from you.”

Best of luck from the Daily to all Stanford interviewees.