Getting Started: Prep, Etiquette and Attire
How the CCE Can Support You
The Center for Career Education (CCE) provides personalized guidance, tailored practice, dedicated physical spaces, and funding to help you feel confident at every stage of the interviewing process. Whether you are prepping for a quick initial screening or a final-round panel, our office offers several support options:
- Interview Prep Appointments: Meet 1-on-1 with a career counselor for 30-minutes to build your strategy for an upcoming interview, review common questions, or learn about industry-specific formats like case or technical interviews. Schedule an “Interview Preparation Advising” appointment on Handshake.
- Mock Interviews: Practice answering questions out loud before the real thing. Schedule a 60-minute “Mock Interview - Job or Internship” appointment with a CCE counselor on Handshake to receive personalized, constructive feedback in a supportive setting.
- Reservable Interview Space: Need a quiet, distraction-free environment for a live phone or virtual interview? Reserve one of our four private interview rooms located inside the CCE. Our interview rooms are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.:
- Financial Support for Interview-Related Expenses: CCE Career Development Grants are available to help students offset the costs of interview-related expenses, including professional attire, travel and transportation, and other necessary costs.
How to Prepare for an Interview
Receiving an interview invitation means an employer is already excited about your background and sees potential in your candidacy. Your goal as you prepare for the interview is to identify ways to translate that initial interest into a compelling case for why you are the best fit for the role. Thorough preparation helps you articulate your value clearly and reduces pre-interview anxiety.
- Research the Organization: Review their mission, services, recent developments, and workplace culture to understand their current goals and values.
- Review Your Resume: Be prepared to speak confidently about any project, role, skill, or activity listed on your resume.
- Align Experience with Qualifications: Map your personal achievements directly to the specific responsibilities and requirements in the job description.
- Prepare Questions for the Interviewer: Have 3 to 5 questions ready that reflect your research and genuine interest in the opportunity.
First Impressions and Professional Etiquette
During an interview, employers evaluate your interpersonal skills, reliability, and communication style just as much as your qualifications. Demonstrating professional conduct builds trust and shows that you will represent their organization well.
- Timely Communication and Responsiveness: Check your email (including spam folders) and voicemail daily during an active search. Aim to respond to employer invitations within 24 hours, sending your message during standard business hours (8 a.m. to 6 p.m.) to present a polished, professional image.
- Punctuality: Plan to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early for in-person interviews, or log into virtual meeting rooms 3–5 minutes ahead of schedule.
- Professional Presence: Greet everyone you meet with warmth and respect, maintain comfortable eye contact, and project enthusiasm through your body language, vocal tone, or word choice.
- Dining and Social Etiquette: Treat meals or coffee chats as formal interviews. Maintain professional boundaries regardless of how relaxed the employer appears. Select easy-to-eat menu items, avoid alcohol, and practice good manners.
- Ethical Standards: Always share accurate and honest information regarding your background, accomplishments, and technical capabilities.
Dressing for the Interview
Selecting professional attire is about presenting a polished, authentic version of yourself while showing respect for an organization’s workplace standards. Focus on proper fit, neatness, and industry expectations. Researching company culture beforehand will help you choose an outfit that feels comfortable and appropriate.
Dress Code Standard
Key Garment Choices
Footwear & Accessories
Business Formal
(Finance, Law, Consulting, Government)
Tailored two-piece suits (pantsuit or skirt suit) in neutral tones like navy, charcoal, or black; crisp collared button-downs or tailored high-neck blouses. Optional necktie.
Polished dress shoes, oxfords, loafers, or closed-toe flats/pumps; minimal accessories.
Business Casual
(Tech, Education, Non-Profit, Creative)
Tailored trousers, chinos, or professional skirts; button-down shirts, blazers, or sweaters paired with neat knitwear or tops.
Clean dress shoes, loafers, or smart flats; subtle accessories.
General Guidelines for All Candidates
- Fit and Comfort: Choose well-tailored clothing that allows you to sit, stand, and move naturally without needing constant adjustments.
- Neatness and Presentation: Ensure garments are clean, ironed or steamed, free of lint, and in good condition.
- Research Culture: Match or slightly elevate your attire relative to the everyday standard of the workplace. When in doubt, lean toward business formal for a first interview.
- Virtual Attire: For virtual interviews, dress fully in professional attire from top to bottom to maintain a professional mindset. Avoid distracting patterns that may flicker on camera.