Interview Project Part 3: Interview Plan

An interview plan is a schedule of how your interview will go. Creating a plan is critical for having a successful interview.

Your plan should cover the following areas:

1. What you plan to wear
2. Opening
3. Orientation
4. Body
5. Closing

In the what you plan to wear section, describe what you plan to wear to make a positive first impression and why you choose to wear it. How is your dress appropriate for the culture of the company?

The opening section clarifies word-for-word how you will greet and prepare the interviewee for the interview.

• Express your appreciation for his/her willingness to help you and shake his/her hand.
• In the orientation section, let the interviewee know what to expect in the interview.
• Remind them the interview is 30 minutes.
• Let them know you will save time at the end of the interview for them to fill out an evaluation form about the interview.
• Preview the topics you’ll be asking him/her about.
• Get permission to use a tape recorder (if applicable).
• Ask if he/she has any questions before you begin. 

The body section has the topics as headings and interview questions under each heading.

•  Designate each question as either primary (opening a new topic) or secondary (follow-up on a topic)
• Designate each question either open, closed, or clearinghouse
• Possible topics:
  • Likes and dislikes about his/her profession
  • Types of training and education he/she would recommend to prepare for this profession
  • Prospects for future employment in the profession
  • Effects of job on personal life
  • Advice he/she would add

In the closing section:

• Thank the interviewee for his/her time.
• Invite them the fill out the Evaluation. Read the instructions with them, assuring them their answers will not affect your grade. Wait while he/she fills it out. Add details to the notes you took of the interview while you are waiting.
•  Ask for a business card or address so you can send a thank you letter
• Take a photo of you and the interviewee to document you were there

Your interview should follow this example

Actions , however, you will create your own topics and questions.