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Prep for Networking and Interviews

What do I need to know for an interview?

Interviewing at the MBA level requires a deeper level of preparation than you've probably experienced before. In addition to the Top Ten Interview Tips from the CMC Library, below is a checklist to help you along the way. Be sure to check out Additional Recruiter Feedback at the bottom of the page!

Librarian Tip: Pressed for time? See our advice for getting up to speed fast for a last-minute interview.

 

Company Checklist: What is the mission? How does the company make money? What are their major products and services? Who are their top competitors? Why aren't you interviewing with them? What news have you read about the company? Can you explain why you want to work at that specific company? It should be an answer you can't give in another interview at a different company. Can you formulate a thoughtful question aside from "What is the culture like?" Have you found a SWOT? What skills are you bringing to address their challenges? Industry Checklist: What are the industry drivers? What are the current trends in the industry? What are the biggest challenges facing the industry? What does the competitive landscape look like? Additional Recruiter Tips: Read the website Show passion for the space Know how the industry operates Read blogs and trade publications Have opinions on the news Read social media channels (even their LinkedIn page)

Recruiter Feedback: "Similar to any interview, do your research! Find out what the latest is on the company, such as new products, acquisitions, growth, quarter-end result announcements in the media, anything you can find out about the company you're interviewing with. Be prepared to discuss or even ask questions about these important topics. Know things like the company history, locations, mission statements, and what is important to the company. Even anything negative you might have seen - don't be afraid to bring it up."

Additional Recruiter Tips

  • Read the website
  • Show passion for the space
  • Know how the industry operates
  • Read blogs and trade publications
  • Have opinions on the news
  • Read the company's social media channels - even their LinkedIn page!

Vault - Networking/Interview Resources