Interview Settings

Screening interview
The screening interview can take place in a variety of settings (see list below) and is used by employers to quickly gauge your fit with the position or organization. Because this interview is brief, 2 minutes to 1 hour, you must make an immediate positive impression. If mutual interest is established, you will be invited for a second interview, commonly known as a site visit.

Site visit
The second interview follows a successful screening interview and usually takes place at the employer's site. This interview can range from 2 hours (for a local employer) to 2 days (for an out-of-town employer).

View details of a site visit - what to expect and how to prepare.

Phone interview
This can be spontaneous, or set up well in advance by the employer. Arrange a quiet place to take this call. Have your resume and supporting documents in front of you. Realizing you are not able to exchange non-verbal cues with the interviewer, you will need to convey your energy and enthusiasm through your voice. Standing up helps! This interview is typically 5-30 minutes in length, though it can go as long as one hour.

On-campus interview
This takes place in the interview rooms of the UCC, 2100 Pullen Hall. Details (employers participating, positions, and requirements) are found in ePACK. Watch for deadlines to apply, typically ~2-3 weeks prior to interviews. Last year 338 companies conducted 4176 individual interviews! All students in all majors are invited to participate. On-campus interviews are typically 30 minutes in length.

Career fair interview
This is spontaneous and generally brief, ranging from 2-15 minutes in length. Your focus on the conversation (in a busy career fair environment) is key. Prepare a brief introduction to begin your conversation. Some employers will create their on-campus interview schedule at the fair.

Meet the employer session
This is spontaneous and follows a formal presentation by an employer. Conversations are likely to range from 2-15 minutes. These sessions are often scheduled prior to on-campus interviews and career fairs and are posted in ePACK. Some employers will create their on-campus interview schedule during at this event.