One very important aspect of preparation for the interview is research. Hopefully you have
already done
research on the employer for the cover letter, but if not, it's not too late. Find out about the
office, its staff, and its practice policies. Gather information about key staff and the size of
the practice, and know the appropriate salary range. Find any literature available about the
employer
and/or the practice, and if there is any such literature at the office, you may want to read
that
while you wait.
Another important preparation is self-examination. Develop a clear picture about your skills and
interests.
You know that there is an excellent chance that you will be asked about your strengths and
weaknesses,
so think about them and develop what you're going to say. Recall certain situations you have
found
yourself in at school, other jobs, extracurricular activities, and volunteer activities. Keep
key
accomplishments in your mind, as well as times when you made the wrong decision or took the
wrong
action, and think about what you would change. Think about your long-term goals.
Practise is also a key part of preparation. Some people benefit from a role-playing interview
with friends
or peers, but some find it makes them more stressed. By now, you know what type of practics is
best
for you. Practise in some way, because it will make for an easier and smoother interview.
Options
to think about include meeting with a career counselor, practising with a friend, and
videotaping
or audiotaping yourself in a mock interview. From this practise, you can develop an interview
strategy
that you believe will show you in the best light and allow you to give the information that you
think
is important.