Your Interview
You found the open position. Your resume and cover letter did their job and landed you the interview. Here at Illinois, for an academic professional position, you’re probably going to be interviewed by a committee. It may be small (2-3 people) or it can be large (10-12). The committee can be composed of faculty, staff and students in nearly any combination and from any department or unit within the university. Lots of unknowns. Lots of possibilities. But, the bottom line is this: the interview is your chance to reach out, engage the committee and make it very clear that there is simply no one who will do this job better than you.
An employment interview is an exchange of information between an organization and a potential employee. Employers use the interview as a chance to assess whether you are qualified for the available position. They also assess such personal characteristics as your interest in the job, your enthusiasm and commitment to your career goals, and your ability to get along with others and fit into the culture of the organization. You, as the potential employee, must use this opportunity to gather information in order to decide whether or not to accept an offer is one is made. Throughout the interview process, you play a major role in keeping the conversation flowing and interesting. You must be able to make your résumé come alive and highlight your strengths in a short period of time.
This really is your chance to decide if this job and this culture and this university is what you want for your career. The committee may start asking the questions, but never forget, this is your interview. We’ve put together a whole range of suggestions and advice and background that you might be able to put to work for you when the call comes. Take a look and good luck.