How to Ace an Interview: 5 Tips from a Harvard Career Advisor

Learn how to prepare for your next interview with these 5 tips from career services advisor Linda Spencer.
Spencer discusses the following strategies in-depth so you can feel more confident throughout the interview process:
1. Do your research.
2. Practice your responses.
3. Make a good first impression.
4. Prepare for different types of interviews.
5. Determine next steps and follow through on them.
Linda Spencer is the assistant director of the Office of Career Services at Harvard.
Visit www.extension.harvard.edu/reso... for more Career Services resources available to Harvard Extension School students.

[@iDontEvenLiftBro]

I'm watching this for an interview at Subway haha. Wish me luck

[@kehinderowland6232]

How did it go?

[@iDontEvenLiftBro]

Lol I got the job

[@kehinderowland6232]

Well done

[@awsnap1709]

+Esther Rowland he told the interviewer that his best buddy is jared fogle

[@kehinderowland6232]

Aw Snap Nice

[@LeonHoward]

i did not pass my interview, thats why i came here. to learn, move forward and succeed

[@dallas5609]

Don't worry Howard. You will do just fine on your next interview.

[@michellem5647]

I’ve had 11 rejections over last 4 months! I have no issue getting the interviews, but I’m obviously doing something wrong during that they don’t want to hire me 😭

[@thegreat9481]

Howard B Thats the spirit

[@thegreat9481]

michelle Udontneedtoknow Same here. But that streak of bullshit is ending soon. I recently got the gist of how to sell myself and will use it in the interviews i have lined up.

[@michellem5647]

The Great I’m trying to watch all the videos I can, & hopefully this week I’ll get at least 1 offer from the 5 interviews I have lined up. Can’t take much more rejection

[@Jurgonkitfok]

I passed my phone interview. I'm now watching this for my in person interview at Tesla. Wish me luck! and I wish you all success in your future endeavors!

[@RomanRyder]

Good luck! That's pretty awesome!

[@fuvet]

*Got job as Starman*

[@helin7435]

did you get the job??

[@sibongiletasilaphiri7521]

Did You get the job?

[@Jurgonkitfok]

helin I totally forgot I posted this comment. And YES I did get the job! I’ve been with Tesla for 2 years 11 months now and I’ve been in 5 different positions with the company. And I love it every single day! Thanks for your comment!

[@mightyowl1668]

It was posted 7 years ago but look at the quality! She even covered skype interviews, which is super relevant even today. One of the best and succinct talks out there...

[@markstingraypasta]

I watched this about 40 minutes before an online interview, wrote down some notes from the vid and got the job😌 overall 10/10

[@ehrmich911]

wow this is so true

[@sarahsy4715]

by using the guide I ended up with 2 job offers, one which I have accepted and I am still currently holding ... I must say I am very impressed.

[@dath1nktank389]

Good job!

[@TheAngieIshmael]

Guys pray for me, being interviewed for veterinary assistant today!

[@recie7587]

Samee

[@strongyang]

I'm doomed as a socially awkward person

[@strongyang]

Can't establish eye contact, and hate people. Haha

[@TG47GRG]

+strongyang just pretend

[@JoeOf91]

idk if your in college, but go to office hours and talk with your professors on a difficult problem this will help you.

[@strongyang]

I'm a college graduate, and going into my research institute in Berlin my my graduate research studies on neuro-psychology on how human decision making works in the brain and european cultural studies. Strangely enough that I know how the human brain operates but can't establish eye contact or any proper human interaction with human. That's unfortunate really.

[@Johnmiotke0]

bro this is something anyone can improve on.... unless you put yourself in a box with limiting beleifs... anyone has the ability to be 'alpha' if they feel entitled to it. you can do whatever the fuck you want. look up rsd

[@noblewolf155]

Watching this for my first job. Wish my luck at Duncan Donuts!!

[@nerosonic]

every job is important

[@noblewolf155]

+nerosonic that it is!

[@mintymatt777]

you mispelled dunkin

[@SamuraiX6288]

Did you get it?

[@noblewolf155]

+SamuraiX6288 They said I can come back when I'm 15, I'm currently 14.

[@Vic292]

Great advice. I would have also mentioned to ask relevant questions related to the job description/expectations to the interviewer at the end of the interview. A few good questions to ask: 1) What are some expectations I can accomplish in the first 3 months? 2) How is success measured, and how can I exceed expectations? 3) What are some challenges a person in this role may have to overcome? I usually ask these 3 questions at the end. Best of luck everyone!

[@MaheenA1295]

Watching this for a job as a lab assistant. Wish me luck

[@cairawalker5624]

me too!!

[@KristinaMassa17]

How'd it go?

[@kkv6124]

How did it go?

[@trevrockslml694]

How did it go?

[@dunyahageb450]

Me now

[@Indeed]

Great explanation of the three different types of interviews!

[@bammmyouuu7752]

You see, if you do a video about jobs and freaking Indeed comes in and approves this, you know you did it right

[@mateogaitan2371]

Indeed it is.

[@emmaashworth5058]

Watching this for my interview today!! Ahh I'm kinda nervous because it's my first one ever for my first job

[@missionseven7972]

You will be fine

[@tylerferguson5993]

$-!Kishen Fawaka yttwwssszzz

[@Rassy_]

How did it go?

[@ruhtrawwe]

u got the job?

[@mackciszek7116]

I applied for a position as a lifeguard at a public pool. The interview is tomorrow and this helped a lot!

[@miss.phyllisreneefoster9547]

She's very intellegent

[@gilbertleblanc2117]

GD.MOR.MISS PHYLLIS SORRY I ACCIDENTALLY REMOVED U. FROM MY CIRCLES BUT I GOT U.BAC.GOD BLESS YOUR W/COS.FRIEND GILBERT LE BLANC!!!

[@miss.phyllisreneefoster9547]

shes a very intelligent lady we all can learn some thing from her.

[@isaacpvful]

Miss. Phyllis Renee Foster yeah right!! i learnt i have to arrive 30 minutes before the interview. Some learning!!!!!. She just crushed Harvards reputation.

[@miss.phyllisreneefoster9547]

very intelligent women inspirering

[@jane7758]

she's a moron

[@kaiyah05]

This helped so much, I know I'm going to ace the interview at the job of my dreams. I'd love to work at Walgreens since I know my cousin went from the bottom of the barrel to assistant manager in less than two years. If he can do it, I can do it to. Walgreens is a good place to have a career. It will give me an opportunity to work on my customer service skills and management skills since I am a business management major in school.

[@bridgetorourke2089]

kaiyah05 so how are you doing now, 2 years later?

[@Tiryk]

How are things going with your pursuit?

[@PsE8]

I was so to little clouded and closed on my career and after watch this i feel like i got some clarity on the front and im really thankful for that!!

[@mercy2326]

I'm watching this for target lol. Wish me luck.

[@gucciflipflops3161]

me for the boys and girls club

[@ConfusedChimp]

Mercedes S AYE ME TOO IM IN THE PARKING LOT HAVING A PANIC ATTACK WHATS GOOOOD

[@ConfusedChimp]

DeMya Nicole idk yet did the interview waiting up to 5 days for a response

[@DrCarr-nb1tf]

so did you get the job

[@ConfusedChimp]

Dr.Dalton Carr nope :-/

[@scarethebean3428]

I’m interviewing at Disney, I’ve wanted to work there for so long. I genuinely can’t wait. I’m beyond nervous, wish me luck.

[@kegokorp]

So how did the interview go? I hope everything went well. Did you get the job?

[@Rada.Laykova]

Watching this for a skype interview with General Motors Financial tomorrow, wish me luck !

[@TheAfricanqueen86]

+Rada Laykova me too good luck

[@TheAfricanqueen86]

+Sandra Johnson i hope you got the job since this is 2 months ago lol

[@advocatevarunrathi2831]

No she is living in welfare cheques

[@silvermediastudio]

I tried these advices and they hired someone for less than what the job (technical management) was posted for ($6500/mo). Now I'm on welfare, but I'm growing pot in my neighbor's unused garage and pulling about $12K/mo tax free. American dream! Thanks Harvard!

[@michaeltaylor4436]

This is a very powerful and truthful way to have an interview go in your favor. I could not have stated it any better or professionally. However, one of the major aspects of the Career Advisor's tips, is trying to make yourself comfortable with the interview, which would contain being yourself, and this helps by collecting the research data she advised (most companies do not mind if you have little notes with you for reference / i.e., 3x5 cards or a neatly typed sheets, in a little business folder, etc.). In other words, you will be ready to answer questions knowledgeably or a bit more informed, resulting in more of a smooth transitioning through the interview, and be in a better state of comfort on your part, that would minimize the stress level or nervous feeling/appearance (simply because you psychologically have a feeling of being better prepared, which makes a huge difference). Good Luck, You Got This!!

[@azfilms3240]

I would be scared of this lady if she interviewed me

[@MrTweaksTV]

in my view this trait alone would not qualify you for any medium to high responsibility jobs. I firmly believe that people like you should be paid less. You are way too easily distracted and fail to maintain concentration on the subject/purpose. (No wonder that most of the negative comments are borderline illiterate and use foul language)

[@daisyk2196]

Tweaksism a KZbin comment probably wasn’t the place to make such a generalisation.

[@therights6794]

Daisy K *generalization*. And she's only trying to help and prepare us for an interview. I think she comes off as comforting. She's not yelling or judging. She's extremely informative and professional.

[@gamingping6719]

Therights generalisation is also correct

[@therights6794]

GamingPing Never knew thanks.

[@RomanRyder]

I really like your point about the importance of making a good first impression! Thanks for sharing!

[@footballvacancies9385]

This is an excellent video for anyone preparing for a job interview. Worth watching several times and making a checklist too. More than 5 tips!

[@nassiratti8542]

Finally, I am watching this tip-pointing video for future interviews and have to say thanks for not copying the 3-part stradegy with the question: "Tell Me About Youself". I love how this Havard career advisor conveyed a clean, descriptive way of acing an interview. Thats Havard for you !

[@illsuive]

Watching this for a Skype interview, very helpful

[@nycbklynrmp]

my husband had skype interview, we did a mock interview!!! yes light does matter, too much light you can't see yes, we set lamp elsewhere. the chair was too high , we used a different chair. NOte put sticky notes to the top of monitor it helps. also put a note or item to look at so you always remember to focus your eyes so it reminder so it looks like you are always looking at them even if you are reading your notes, put them on the wall if you need to or a clothing line LOL

[@thevinceberry]

I always get choke up from nerves in the interview and forget everything I had research.

[@LunaWaffle]

I do too, but the best tip I have for that is to remember that they are just human too. Think about what information you are trying to convey.

[@ruraljuror1734]

Bring your notes!!

[@michellem5647]

Me too specially after 11 rejections...I’m starting to get pretty down on myself

[@bbnben96]

Same here

[@oscarimr2000]

She knows exactly what is she talking about! Thank you 🙏

[@msbellydancagirl]

You are very clear and everything you have stated is true. I am going in for an interview for my dream job, I have to ace this interview and your insight really helped!

[@knightrider9070]

to the point, clear and just pure value. Thx for uploading. This is gold compared to the fluff we have right now

[@alexanderf3667]

Very helpful and informative video. I am interviewing for a front desk position at a backpackers hostel. I have been interested in working in a hostel for a while, I will be sure to use these pointers to prepare and put my best foot forward. Thanks Linda.

[@noahhomyak9477]

1. Do your research about yourself the position (what does it do?) the company (history, current news, advancements) the industry (competitors) 2. ez job this is a bit of an understatement, i know, i'm just joking. good luck to everyone watching this video tho!

[@shubhamgoel-web]

All your videos are very informative. I really appreciate your efforts in making of this series.

[@pamelaswan2774]

This was a great presentation ! I learned tips and also it confirmed my own thoughts. Thank you 🍒

[@saulgomez5813]

Awesome to see the internet be blessed with great knowledge like this, allowing people to level up and take matters into their own hands!!!

[@zv54]

Watching this for the countless time.

[@brennabee3654]

I got an interview today for a job I desperately want (cosmetic sales rep for a department store). So glad i found this video, its extremely helpful

[@sofialarosa2110]

I have a college interview today, thanks!

[@SmartWentCrazy]

Watching this as a refresher. Thanks for the helpful tips/reminders :)

[@sukilove5140]

I’m intimidated by this woman, and she’s not even interviewing me!! She’s so intelligent 🤓

[@thoughtpower3251]

The only person who can intimidate you is yourself. Its based on the opinion you have about yourself. She's probably no more intelligent than you are, she merely has more knowledge and experience in this area which you can feed on. Two books I recommend Think & Grow Rich TNT: The Power Within

[@DV8N1]

Suggestions: Look at the camera Not interviewers! Print abbreviated taking points, unique skills/experience and tape next to camera. Ensure proper and even lighting. Avoid wearing stripes..sometimes they don't appear as they should on the other end. Make it easier for yourself however you can! Best of luck everyone!!

[@stacykaye6310]

Wonderful advice - I did this to help with eye contact, it worked and I felt more comfortable.

[@maryelizabethfalco7506]

I'm watching this to become a trainer at walt disney world!

[@3.MptyUntitled]

How'd it go?

[@mizamazin98]

Watching this because I have an interview tomorrow to become a sales associate at Kohl's, wish me luck!

[@SuperDiamondGH]

If only I would have found someone like you sooner in my career. Looking forward to your webinar!

[@loveyoumothermonster]

I applied about a week ago at Baskin Robbins and got a call today .. Have an interview on Sunday! Wish me luck D: it's my first interview , and these tips are really good ones! Thank you 😀

[@etienneparent2184]

Please make more videos with her. Very knowledgeable.

[@marikleinen1189]

Dear Ms. Spencer, Thank you very much for your professional advice.

[@Roronoa.leilei]

I watching this for an interview for a retail store. Fingers crossed

[@Jake-re2nt]

Watching this for a job as a civil engineer in the Army :D

[@raultrujillo3764]

your video gives me confidence, plus knowledge of how to prepare for a job interview, I know that in the future I will need a good basis for me to go super well in my job interview and I will take very much into account each of your words to be able to work in the company of my dreams.😄

[@sumanlingappa2072]

Very impressed and this leads to a higher value to customers and individuals. Good to work for this special organisation.

[@anthonyd9844]

I'm watching this for my interview at Coach tomorrow, they size you up fast in retail ( the 7 sec rule she mentioned) so these were very helpful tips. Wish me luck! :)

[@edwardwatt3497]

Watched this for a contract IT role at Ascension Healthcare. First IT role since military retirement and college graduation.

[@jazzoolazz]

Great advice! Thank you for sharing.

[@noereyes82]

I have a second interview at Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Authority for an Equipment Maintenance supervisor. Wish Me luck!

[@chs75]

Did you get the job?

[@felixferdinand9433]

Nice one am preparing for the interview just few hours from now wish me luck, May God be with me.

[@vintage1520]

I got a full time job at American Museum of Natural History in NYC as a Tour Guide, Thank you so much for your advices!

[@teganannedreams-2881]

Great video! Very informative and well presented

[@user-tg3sq3xx5f]

I’m watching this for a project management interview for my first job in France. Wish me luck!! I wish you all the greatest success in your endeavors

[@excelbrookstv7393]

I hope you got the job🌚

[@mahrukh1999]

watching this for my interview at my dream college! Wish me luck !

[@dinoandes]

I love her. Especially when she chugged that glass of cow's blood on Survivor Africa. And this is a great video!

[@B3AST858]

Having my first interview tomorrow at Chipotle and a second interview at Macy's next week.

[@marciaalexander3407]

B3AST858 how did the interview for Macys go?. I have one tomorrow.

[@B3AST858]

hibiscus luv i had two interviews with Macy's. First one i didnt get the job, but was told to apply for another position. Which i did and i got the job. I officially start Dec 2. But i can pickup shifts.

[@anahifuentes6403]

I have an interview tomorrow to enter the dental program at my university, wish me luck

[@kkv6124]

How did it go?

[@ArmaniTalia2003]

Thu is really helpful I have an interview coming up and I started to get anxious thanks for the video 🤍🤍

[@xXTearsXHeartXx]

Watching this for an interview with GE. Wish me luck!

[@NatalieBoat111]

I love how she speaks without any umms or likes - something I struggle with. Great video thanks!

[@JayRosser94]

Got an interview today! Fingers crossed 👌

[@luzmier9703]

Watching this for a dental front office desk tommorow morning ..also have another interview as a care partner tommorow afternoon..the nervousness first time applying for these jobs

[@latashawalton7739]

Watching this for a supervisory position in the manufacturing industry. I'm putting God first and letting Him lead me all the way!!!

[@likewaterforcoffee1570]

These tips are great! Thank you!

[@crazisinger4008]

Wow this was extremely helpful! Thank you!

[@francescaceraldi2149]

There is a great deal of valuable insight in this video. I hope you could offer advice on an individual who is entering the work force after a long unemployment +-5 years.

[@ZaraKhan-vk8cq]

I'm gonna volunteer at some place and have an interview. Excited

[@varshiththota]

The fact that she brought up the Skype interview topic is very very very relevant today. I have aced the interview. Cheers! clap

[@randallboo5814]

watching this for a scholarship interview tomorrow :D

[@clarice657]

I’m a fresh graduate with no job experience and having an interview tmr, thank you very much!

[@cynthiamendez7145]

Prior to watching this video, I was eager to join your organization. The video reiterated my desire to be apart of this team and bring my decade of experience along with me. I believe I will be an asset and can only anticipate future endeavors

[@maymee83]

I had a phone interview a few weeks ago, it was going well until a motorbike starting revving and roaring it's engine right outside the window for what seemed like forever (I'm on the ground floor, couldn't escape the noise) It was very awkward. So yes, find somewhere quiet. I thought I had D:

[@nycbklynrmp]

yeah i had a firetruck sound im in nyc LOL. maybe go to friends house or cafe where quite, depending on what you have to do or how long the interview is

[@kenm4822]

Watching this for a interview at PNNL on Friday. Wish me luck!

[@colinvanblaricom6573]

We loved you on Survivor Africa!

[@beadinggal1577]

I'm a great team player, and look forward to becoming a key player on the Baycare Team!

[@rubylewis1804]

Great video! Thanks for sharing.

[@OfficialYouTube3]

Wish me luck! Heading to my interview today! Going to be a shoe-shines man (hopefully!)

[@dmtang01]

Watching this interview for Sparks enterprise, I've had many experiences in a interview over the years

[@hotdogplays1983]

Great Thanks. It helped a lot!

[@ryanb8076]

Watching this in preparation for an internship interview with MetLife. Good luck to everyone out there!

[@MrWombatsan]

Excellent advice. Follow this and you'll get the job, TK!

[@MeganIsSoSmiley]

Watching this for my interview at Uniqlo. :)

[@ENTRYEAH]

Watching for a scholarship interview on Wednesday!

[@mystorymenzi7726]

This is still so relevant right now!! 😍

[@Sam-pu7xc]

Thank you ma'am this will help

[@Tiryk]

I'm watching this to be a dishwasher at a nearby restaurant

[@jasong345tg7]

Same

[@itsrose129]

I mean this was a year ago, but me too!! I go to hand in my resume next week and hopefully I land an interview

[@joesmoe8983]

Wow, make sure you bring a copy of your masters degree with you👍🏻

[@jonnorris2725]

Very helpful tips. Have an interview coming up with Hartford financial services and this is useful to me. Nervous because its my first interview for a real job lol

[@NurseNick420]

I've got 2 interviews tomorrow! Both at remotely different times so they won't collide into each other lol. So excited and nervous at the same time.

[@yasmine5105]

This was very informative thanks.

[@kadolini]

Very intersting, i knew few tips like the thank you note, but the other tips are very usefull too. For my next interview, i will use all the advice. Wish me luck

[@TabieLedesma]

Watching this for my marketing internship tomorrow! Wish me luck :)

[@labasaskrabas341]

very useful tips! Thank you!

[@GermAntibody]

I'm so nervous, I've got a second interview tomorrow afternoon for serving at the best local Korean Barbecue. I failed at emigrating to Korea and I'd really love to at least get to be part of the culture already instead of having to wait years until I get to move there.

[@shadowfox8812]

got a interview at best buy...thanks!