Video:Internship Interview Tips

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Transcript:Internship Interview Tips

Though you may never see a paycheck from an internship, the experience can help to advance your career or otherwise lead to new employment opportunities. Just as in any interview, the goal is to better your chances of standing out amidst a crowd of applicants.

Learn About the Company Interviewing You

Start by learning as much as you can about the company where you're interviewing. Learn what they do, how they do it, and why they’re a company you should be a part of. Go to their website to find the basics, then hop over to Google to research recent news and relevant facts. Being able to confidently discuss the company where you're interviewing not only shows that you've done your homework, but will help boost your confidence when you're on the spot, which is half the battle.

Practice Interview Questions

Next, determine which questions the interviewer is most likely to ask. Before you walk into your interview, be sure to think your answers through. Making an actual list is a good way to be thorough, and rehearsing your answers aloud will improve your chances of saying just the right things on the day. If you've got a buddy who can role-play the interview with you beforehand, you'll be putting yourself in a serious position to blow away the competition. If you can't find a trusted helper, find a place where you can rehearse freely and loudly if necessary. I find the shower works pretty well.

Dress Well for Your Interview

Looking the part is essential for impressing potential bosses during your internship interview. Always go a notch dressier than the company's dress code - if it's casual, wear pressed slacks and shirt or blouse. If it's business casual, wear a suit. First impressions count for a lot, so show up on time, offer a firm handshake, look your interviewer in the eye, and go get 'em. Be sure to emphasize your best qualities and skills in the interview, and back them up with specific examples. Take the time you need to understand the questions you're asked before answering, and remember that it's okay to ask for clarification.

Final Interview Tips

Bring extra copies of your resume just in case, as well as any physical samples of your work if appropriate. Remember to ask any questions that you have, and close the meeting by thanking interviewers for their time and asking about the next steps. Follow up with a thank you note to everyone with whom you spoke, in the mail the next day. Above all else, remember to relax, and be yourself. While you might not be rolling in the bucks when you're an intern, you just might be getting experience that's priceless. I'm Jonathon Stewart with About.com.