Job interviews 101: Myths, tips and common mistakes

By Lena Garrard | Staff writer

Job interviews can be intimidating—especially when you feel unprepared, uncertain or unsure of what to expect.

Amy Clemente, internship and campus partnerships manager for Career Services at Augusta University, provides valuable tips and advice on preparing for an interview, engaging during the interview and following up afterward.

Preparing for the interview

Clemente advises students to start by researching the company.

“One common mistake I see candidates make is not researching the company thoroughly before an interview,” she said.

Whether through the company’s website, LinkedIn, press releases or news articles, it’s important to explore the organization’s mission, core values and ongoing initiatives. This preparation can help set a candidate apart.

“This not only shows genuine interest,” Clemente noted, “but it also helps candidates draw connections between their skills and the company’s goals, allowing them to articulate how they can contribute effectively.”

In addition to research, Clemente highlights the importance of practice and maintaining a positive mindset. She suggests candidates prepare a few well-structured stories that clearly showcase key skills and experiences.

These stories should be formatted using the STAR technique, which outlines the situation, task, action and result.

“Students can also refine their interview skills by meeting with career advisors at the Career Center for mock interviews, or by using tools like Big Interview, which is available on the Career Services website,” Clemente said.

Big Interview enables students to practice responding to questions via webcam and receive feedback. The more they practice, Clemente says, the more confident and prepared they’ll feel—easing nerves and fostering a positive mindset.

During the interview

Nonverbal cues play a big role in how candidates are perceived.

“Smiling, taking notes and using positive body language all contribute to making a strong professional impression,” Clemente said.

After the interview

Following up with a thank-you note is key.

“A handwritten note can help candidates stand out,” Clemente noted, “especially when interviewing with individuals who may value traditional gestures over emails.”

Common myths and advice

Clemente also addressed some common misconceptions about interviews. One of the biggest: that the employer holds all the power.

“A common myth is that the employer holds all the power since they make the final hiring decision and choose whether to provide feedback,” she said. “However, it’s just as much about the candidate determining if the job and company are the right fit for them as it is about the employer choosing the candidate.”

Candidates should feel empowered to decline a second interview or an offer if the opportunity doesn’t feel right.

Before leaving the interview, Clemente recommends asking, “When can I expect to hear back from you?” This helps clarify next steps and ensures candidates know when and how to follow up.

“This also gives them an additional sense of control and helps them plan effective follow-ups with the right point of contact,” she added.

Clemente’s final piece of advice: don’t rely solely on interviews to find a job.

“Instead of just lining up as many interviews as I could, I wish I had spent more time networking, which is the best way to find a job,” Clemente said. “I was focused on going through the 'front door' like everybody else, when I should have been finding the 'side door' through networking and informational interviewing.”

Since many interviews stem from pre-existing connections, this approach can significantly improve job search success.

The Career Center provides services for all students and alumni seeking guidance on job searches and interview preparation.

Top of screen: Photo via Adobe Stock

Contact Lena Garrard at legarrard@augusta.edu.