Interview Prep Using Strategy Cited in 15 Minute Study Hack!

As spring interview season is winding down, make each interview count! How? Prepare effectively for the interview with the same simple strategy used by students in a Stanford study who improved test grades by a third.

1. Think about how you want to perform and what you need to get you there. Researchers noted, “All too often, students just jump mindlessly into studying before they have even strategized what to use, without understanding why they are using each resource, and without planning out how they would use the resource to learn effectively.” That sounds familiar.
2. Anticipate questions. The Stanford study found students given 15 minutes to create a study plan did a third of a grade better on their tests than those simply reminded of the upcoming test. Interviewees too should put themselves in the shoes of the interviewer, anticipate likely questions, and map out resources to tap. This process can be quick!
3. Plan ahead (do not cram the night before!). Students did significantly better when they were asked 7-10 days before their test about their study plan. Interviewees should also think about how they will get information about the company/job (check with their network, review online, read annual reports, research articles), and practice answering likely questions about their skill set and career path.  
4. Consider if there are alternative ways to prep/do better. The Stanford researcher suggested students employ critical thinking and ask themselves “What you are doing doesn’t seem to be working very well. Is there something else you can use that would help you do it better?” or “Look at the way they are doing things. Do you think they could have gone about it in a better way?” These same questions apply to net the job you want.