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Tips for Interviewing with the UML


What are the two most common mistakes candidates make when interviewing for a job at the UML? Inadequately preparing for the interview, and not researching the lab.

A few tips to help job hunters prepare for an interview:

  • Research the UML and understand the opportunity for which you’re applying.
  • Make a list of your key achievements and failures before coming to the interview.
  • Have a strong sense of self-awareness, and review your resume to jog your memory.
  • Anticipate the interview questions and practice your answers.
  • Write 3 or 4 things you want the UML to know about you and include them into your interview
  • At the interview, show an interest in the lab and ask relevant questions, such as how the state and federal legislation impacts the UML’s business. Don’t ask about benefits or vacation time during the first interview.
  • When asked, use recent examples from internships, school, community service, hobbies, or work experiences where you demonstrated the skills that the UML seeks. When sharing negative experiences, choose those that had positive outcomes or from which you learned something.
  • If you’ve answered a question and the interviewer pauses, follow up with a relevant question about the UML or ask whether the interviewer needs additional information. Don’t babble or talk incessantly to fill the silence.
  • Answer the question that was asked—and only the question that was asked.

One suggestion: Use the 3-step “STAR” approach to frame your answers to interview questions: 1. Situation or Task, 2. Action, and 3. Result. Using the STAR approach, you would describe the situation or task; what specific actions you took that had an effect on the situation; and the positive result or outcome.

Try to avoid common pitfalls.

  • Not having answers
  • Not having questions
  • Talking too much or too little
  • Lack of focus
  • Deception
  • Criticizing former co-workers, teammates, or employers
  • Revealing too much personal information

Oklahoma State University Multispectral Laboratories | 500 West South Avenue | Ponca City, OK 74601 | 580.767.8865