Tips to Ace Internship Interview

Every interview is a learning opportunity. Learn from it and be ready to crack the next one. Here are some tips to ace internship interviews (fell free to add your points in comments).

After spending last few weeks interviewing candidates (Graduates / Post-Graduate) for internship, I have come up with following pointers which might help students to crack the interview:-

• Be Informed: While applying to any organisation, do read about the business model, revenue structure, key people involved and operational locations. Interviewer feels delighted when interviewee is even little aware of the organization (and half the battle is won).
• Show Flexibility: Be open for learning. Rather than asking about timings of work, weekly offs and stipend;please first ask about learning opportunities, exposure to business world and future growth/opportunities. Rest things will ultimately fall in place.
• Portray Individuality: I agree that everyone takes advice from parents/family/peers but don't say this to your interviewer upfront. Simply say, "Thank you for the opportunity!! It sounds promising. I will think about it and get back you." or "Thanks for reaching out, I need to explore more about the company. Please allow me some time". There is no harm in taking time to think about the opportunity.
• Positive Attitude: As per a study, within 30 sec of the interview, interviewer makes the decision whether to reject or hire the candidate. Avoid any kind of casual attitude. In case of telephonic interview:make sure you attend the call with enthusiasm (Tone:Medium, Pitch:Up, Inflection: Up) and greetings. It will show pro-activeness and will positively direct the conversation. In case of face to face:ensure you dress well, have a smile, maintain a confident body posture and greet the interviewer.
• Be Prepared: Try and make a list of frequently asked questions during the interview and frame your answers. Don't try to mug up but you should have some ready bullet points as reference during any interview. With each interview you give, you will get the hang of the drill and will be able to crack it.

Keep Learning. Keep Growing.

All the best..!!