Preparing for an Interview Definitions When you apply for a job or college, you may be asked to participate in an interview. An interview is a way to get to know applicants beyond their written resume or application. It is a chance to showcase your personality, communication skills, and qualifications for the role or program. Interviews can take different forms. For example, they could be in-person or virtual. As well, they could be a 1-on-1 interview, a panel, or even a group interview. It is important to prepare ahead of time for any interview. Like writing a resume, in an interview, you’ll want to identify your strengths, skills, and relevant experiences. Be prepared to share about yourself and “sell” yourself to an employer or admissions staff. What makes you stand out? Why would you be successful in the position or environment? There are a lot of things you can do to get ready for an interview. Below are a few steps you can take to prepare:
Research: learn about the college or company for which you are applying. Whenever possible, learn about your specific department or role as well as the entire organization/college. Practice: look up common interview questions and draft answers; conduct mock interviews with family, friends, or teachers. Sell Yourself: develop an “elevator pitch” or short introductory statement that tells the interviewer who you are, why you are interested in the opportunity, and about your qualifications. Dress Code: understand appropriate attire based on the context and select a professional outfit to wear. Documents: have required documents printed, like a resume or cover letter. Guiding Questions Have you been interviewed before? How would you introduce yourself to someone new? What is your elevator pitch? (This is a short introductory statement that describes who you are, why you are interested in the position, and what your qualifications are). What skills or past experiences will you highlight? What professional behaviors are important to display during an interview? (e.g., being on time, showing enthusiasm for the position, etc.) What would you say in a thank-you note or email? Resources "Interviewing Successfully" This resource is an article from Perkins School for the Blind with tips to help you successfully navigate a job interview.
"Tips for Interviewing as a Blind and Visually Impaired Candidate" This resource is an article from Industries for the Blind and Visually Impairment (IBVI) and introduces interview tips to leave a lasting impression.
"College Interview Tips for Disabled Students" This article, written by Veronica Lewis, includes topics for college interviews based on her own experiences.
Getting a Job and Preparing for an Interview This resource is a video produced by the Described and Captioned Media Program (DCMP) and is hosted by Crystal Melero, a statewide services coordinator for children who are blind or have low vision.
Tips to Help Students with Visual Impairments Succeed in a Job Interview Perkins School for the Blind provides tips to help individuals who are blind or have low vision succeed in job interviews. It emphasizes the importance of appropriate interview attire, understanding job descriptions, and practicing through mock interviews to build confidence and preparedness.
Answering Questions During an Interview as a Blind Candidate APH ConnectCenter provides guidance for individuals who are blind or have low vision on how to prepare for job interviews, emphasizing the importance of practicing responses to common questions and addressing accessibility needs.
