Take Our Quiz | Are You Ready for Your Next Big Interview?

Alexis Perrotta

Jul 12, 2021 10:00 AM

A woman in an office holding a laptop and a mobile phone.

Think you're ready for your next big interview? We'll be the judge of that!

Take this Idealist Career Advice quiz to make sure you're all set to wow at your next job interview. And whether you're ready and raring or not-quite-there, we have some useful resources and pro tips to help you shine!

Question 1

How have you prepared for the interview?

I’ve spent time going over common interview questions and reviewing the job description. The evening before the interview, I have a friend that’s going to do a mock-interview with me.

I’ve jotted down answers to some common interview questions, but haven’t rehearsed aloud.

All interviews feel the same to me at this point -- and I’ve had a lot over the course of the past few months -- so I’m not doing anything special to prepare, but I feel ready.

Question 2

How much research have you done?

I know this company inside and out. I’ve explored their website and social media presence, I’ve checked out LinkedIn profiles for the interviewers I’ll be meeting with, and I Googled the organization in the news.

I’ve spent some time on their website and am familiar with their field, so I feel confident that I’ll be able to hold my own in the room.

I’ve been pretty busy with my job search, but I’m going to take a look at their website and social media presence the evening before the interview.

Question 3

Have you signed up to receive the organization’s newsletter?

No. I’m not a client or a donor, so I don’t really need their monthly newsletter.

Yes! I receive their monthly newsletter and I’ve set up some Google alerts to let me know when they’re in the news.

No, but I’ve read some archived versions of their newsletter on their website.

Question 4

How are you planning to get to the interview?

It’s not far from where I used to work, so I’m going to hop in the car (or on the train) tomorrow morning and figure it out on the way.

I’ve planned my route and even found a coffee shop near the interview location so that I can get there nice and early and kill some time drinking tea and reviewing my prep materials.

GPS is my BFF! As long as my phone is charged, no advanced planning needed!

Question 5

Do you have your outfit picked out?

I’ve laid out several appropriate options, each for a different weather situation. Everything is ironed, coordinated, and ready to go.

I have a pretty good idea of what I’m going to wear. I think it’ll just depend on how I’m feeling on the big day.

I’ve been busy preparing my responses so I’m planning to go shopping for a new interview outfit sometime in the next day or two.

Question 6

What's in your bag?

I travel light. No bag needed!

Three copies of my resume, a small packet of tissues, a pen, paper, a roll of breath mints, and bottle of water.

A few copies of my resume and my phone.

Question 7

How do you plan to wrap up your interview?

With a few, pre-planned questions, a request for business cards, a good understanding of what the next steps will be, and a firm handshake.

I want to be sure that I have a good sense of the work schedule, benefits, and salary.

I’m so nervous that I can’t even think that far ahead! I have a feeling that I’m just going to be so relieved to get out of there!

***

If you're looking for other ways to prepare for your next interview, be sure to check out 4 of the Toughest Interview Questions, and How to Respond.

Alexis Perrotta

Jul 12, 2021 10:00 AM

As the Associate Director of Marketing and Communications at Idealist and a lifelong nonprofit professional, Alexis offers job seekers, game changers, and do gooders actionable tips, career resources, and social-impact advice.

Land Your Dream Job

Question 1

How have you prepared for the interview?

Question 2

How much research have you done?

Question 3

Have you signed up to receive the organization’s newsletter?

Question 4

How are you planning to get to the interview?

Question 5

Do you have your outfit picked out?

Question 6

What's in your bag?

Question 7

How do you plan to wrap up your interview?

Alexis Perrotta