Successful Interviewing from Coursera

The goal of hiring managers is not just to hire people who need a job. It’s to hire people who believe in their organization, its mission and the work that’s involved in the job position. Every hiring manager knows: Hire people to do a job and they’ll work for your money. Hire people who believe in the work and they’ll work for their passion.

And this is not a case of “fake it until you make it.” You have to be genuine about your belief in an organization and its mission. That means you have to have researched the industry, the company, and the position – and be able to show how your goals in life align with the company’s mission. Having done so will shape the impression you convey as a candidate, the way you answer traditional questions, and the way you demonstrate that you’re the right candidate for the job.

This course is the second in a five-course specialization. We recommend that courses #1, #2 and #3 be taken in sequence. Course #4 - on resume and cover letter writing - can be taken in any sequence, while course #5 is the capstone for the specialization as a whole.

This course can be thought of as "Interviewing I", while course #3 is "Interviewing II." Course #3 covers more advanced interview formats, including behavioral and situational interviews - along with the special case of telephone screenings. The logic for including telephone screenings - which happen at the start of the interview process - late in this specialization on interviewing is that those screenings, while happening early in the process, involve all the skills that you'll learn from course #1 through course #3.

As for this course, it will teach you how to:

1. Do thorough research on a company of your choice.

2. Prepare for those critical first 3-5 minutes of an interview (when many recruiters say an interview is either won or lost).

3. Prepare for the all important "Tell Me About Yourself" question.

4. Prepare for traditional interview questions.

5. Use strategies for handling the salary question. We don't teach you salary negotiation techniques, but we do teach you how to avoid putting yourself in a weak negotiation position.

6. Prepare an elevator speech - all three variations.

7. Use persuasive speech techniques to present professional accomplishments and qualifications in a manner that conveys benefits to a potential employer.

8. Use persuasive speech techniques to convince a potential employer of your interest, motivation and preparation for a particular position.

9. Adapt your nonverbal communication style to the expectations of English-speaking interviewers.

What's inside

Syllabus

Researching the Market

This module builds on the self-assessment work you completed in the first course. You assemble your list of target industries, companies, and jobs. You put into practice research strategies to support your evolving career goals. You conduct in-depth research into a company of your choice and present your results in the end-of-module peer assessment.

Making a Positive First Impression

Employers want to work with people who fit into the culture of their organization. To show that you're such a person calls for skills in the art of making a positive first impression. You will identify how these skills apply during an interview or during an informal business event. You will further identify specific steps you can take to develop, and eventually master, the art of making a positive first impression.

Answering Traditional Interview Questions

Preparing for interview questions does not mean memorizing canned responses. It does not mean reading from a script. It does mean doing your research, preparing your stories, and honing your strategies. In this module, you'll identify strategies and language you can use to begin to communicate your value to a potential employer.

Proving You've Done Your Research

There's nothing that annoys a hiring manager more than interviewing a candidate who hasn't done research into the prospective company. You're going to have done your research, and this module shows you how to communicate that in the strategies you use to respond to common interview questions.

Demonstrating You've Got What It Takes

The English-language world of work calls for cultural literacies that may be a challenge for non-native speakers to decode and develop. This module will take you through an abbreviated enculturation process whereby you will learn not only to talk the talk but also to walk the walk of a confident job-seeker in the English-language world of work.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Develops the strategic communication and leadership skills needed to effectively manage teams and lead an organization

Provides persuasive speech strategies for powerfully communicating value, interest, and preparation to potential employers

Covers in-depth research techniques to demonstrate knowledge of the company and identify alignment with their mission

Provides guidance on preparing for various traditional interview questions

Covers strategies for handling salary questions effectively without weakening the negotiating position

Provides strategies for making a positive first impression and building rapport with interviewers

Reviews summary

Useful interview prep

Learners say the Successful Interviewing course is useful for preparing for job interviews. The course has engaging assignments, but difficult exams. Overall, learners are largely positive about this course, but some find it a bit slow.

Many engaging assignments

"This course should be taken by anyone involved in the processs of applying for job interviews! It's both useful and pleasant to take."

"Fantastic course and tutors! Thank you so much for so inspiring interview prep material :)"

"This course is really effective. I found the quiz really tough. But this course will immensely help you to prepare your interview. I highly recommend to learners. And thank you to the instructor."

Course is a bit slow

"a bit slow and too much common sense and not very engagingtoobad i bought this "specialisation thinking I bought Cursera Plus and could just lookinto several courses before deciding whichone to invest my time inSkipped through this one but will not be following it anymore"

Exams are difficult

"The Testing was difficult and not very helpful. I feel like the test had material that was not covered in the course."

"Too lengthy and despite trying my best was not able to clear quizzes. multiple attempts"

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Successful Interviewing with these activities:

Attend Virtual or In-Person Career Fairs

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Network with potential employers, learn about job opportunities, and expand your professional connections by attending industry events.

Browse courses on Career Fairs

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Research upcoming career fairs and events.
Prepare your resume and elevator pitch.
Engage with recruiters and company representatives.
Follow up with potential connections after the event.

Participate in Resume and Cover Letter Writing Workshops

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Enhance your job application materials by attending workshops that provide expert guidance on crafting effective resumes and cover letters.

Browse courses on Resume Writing

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Identify reputable resume and cover letter writing workshops.
Prepare your existing resume and cover letter for review.
Actively participate in the workshop and seek feedback.
Implement the feedback provided to improve your job application materials.

Practice Interviewing

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Practice answering common interview questions to improve your confidence and communication skills.

Browse courses on Interviewing Skills

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Identify common interview questions.
Write down your answers to each question.
Practice answering the questions out loud.

Five other activities

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Show all eight activities

Explore Industry-Specific Interview Techniques

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Research and engage with industry-specific interview tutorials to gain insights into the unique challenges and expectations of your target field.

Browse courses on Technical Interviewing

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Identify industry-specific interview resources.
Review online tutorials and videos.
Attend workshops or webinars tailored to your industry.

Develop an Elevator Pitch

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Craft a concise and compelling pitch that effectively communicates your skills and career goals to potential employers.

Browse courses on Elevator Pitch

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Brainstorm your key skills and accomplishments.
Identify your target audience and tailor your pitch accordingly.
Write a draft of your elevator pitch.
Practice delivering your pitch in front of a mirror or with a friend.

Engage in Volunteer Activities Relevant to Your Career Goals

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Gain valuable hands-on experience and demonstrate your commitment to your field by volunteering at organizations aligned with your career aspirations.

Browse courses on Volunteering

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Identify volunteer opportunities in your field of interest.
Apply for and secure a volunteer position.
Actively participate in volunteer activities and contribute your skills.
Reflect on your volunteer experience and how it enhances your career goals.

Create a Professional Portfolio

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Build a portfolio that showcases your relevant skills, experience, and achievements to impress hiring managers and recruiters.

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Gather your best work samples and projects.
Select the most effective platform to showcase your portfolio.
Design a visually appealing and professional-looking portfolio.
Tailor your portfolio to specific job applications.

Seek Mentorship from Experienced Professionals

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Establish connections with mentors who can provide career advice, support, and insights to accelerate your professional growth.

Browse courses on Mentorship

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Identify potential mentors in your field.
Reach out to mentors and request their guidance.
Meet regularly with your mentor to discuss your career goals and challenges.
Implement the advice and support provided by your mentor.

Career center

Learners who complete Successful Interviewing will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Recruiter

This course is specifically designed to help individuals prepare for and succeed in job interviews. Recruiters, who play a crucial role in the hiring process, can benefit greatly from the skills and knowledge gained in this course. The course covers topics such as researching potential employers, making a positive first impression, answering traditional interview questions, and demonstrating qualifications. By mastering these skills, recruiters can enhance their ability to attract and hire top talent for their organizations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Recruiter

Consultant

The course "Successful Interviewing" is highly relevant for aspiring and current Consultants. The course covers essential skills such as researching potential employers, making a positive first impression, and answering traditional interview questions. These skills are critical for Consultants who need to effectively communicate their qualifications and demonstrate their understanding of the industry and target audience. Additionally, the course provides insights into persuasive speech techniques, negotiation strategies, and building relationships, which are crucial for success in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Consultant

Business Development Manager

The course "Successful Interviewing" is highly relevant for those aspiring to become Business Development Managers. The course covers essential skills such as researching companies, making a positive first impression, and answering traditional interview questions. These skills are critical for Business Development Managers who need to effectively communicate their qualifications and demonstrate their understanding of the industry and target audience. Additionally, the course provides insights into persuasive speech techniques, negotiation strategies, and building relationships, which are crucial for success in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Development Manager

Public relations manager

Public Relations Managers can greatly benefit from the course "Successful Interviewing" as it provides valuable skills and knowledge for succeeding in the competitive job market. The course covers topics such as researching potential employers, making a positive first impression, and answering traditional interview questions. These skills are essential for PR professionals who need to effectively communicate their qualifications and demonstrate their understanding of the industry and target audience. Additionally, the course provides insights into persuasive speech techniques, which are crucial for PR professionals in managing media relations and building a positive public image.

See salaries and explore the career path for Public relations manager

Human Resources Manager

Human Resources Managers may benefit from the course "Successful Interviewing" due to its focus on preparing for interviews and making a positive first impression. The course can help develop the skills needed to effectively communicate qualifications and interest in a potential role, which is important for candidates in this field. Additionally, the course addresses topics such as salary negotiation and demonstrating value to potential employers, which are relevant to HR professionals involved in the hiring process.

See salaries and explore the career path for Human Resources Manager

Account Manager

Account Managers can benefit from the course "Successful Interviewing" as it provides valuable skills and knowledge for succeeding in the competitive job market. The course covers topics such as researching potential employers, making a positive first impression, and answering traditional interview questions. These skills are essential for Account Managers who need to effectively communicate their qualifications and demonstrate their understanding of the industry and target audience. Additionally, the course provides insights into building relationships, negotiation strategies, and persuasive speech techniques, which are crucial for success in this role.

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Operations Manager

Operations Managers can benefit from the course "Successful Interviewing" as it provides valuable skills and knowledge for succeeding in the competitive job market. The course covers topics such as researching potential employers, making a positive first impression, and answering traditional interview questions. These skills are essential for Operations Managers who need to effectively communicate their qualifications and demonstrate their understanding of the industry and target audience. Additionally, the course provides insights into negotiation strategies, building relationships, and persuasive speech techniques, which are crucial for success in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Manager

Project Manager

The course "Successful Interviewing" is highly relevant for Project Managers as it provides valuable skills and knowledge for succeeding in the competitive job market. The course covers topics such as researching potential employers, making a positive first impression, and answering traditional interview questions. These skills are essential for Project Managers who need to effectively communicate their qualifications and demonstrate their understanding of the industry and target audience. Additionally, the course provides insights into negotiation strategies, building relationships, and persuasive speech techniques, which are crucial for success in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager

Marketing Manager

The course "Successful Interviewing" can be beneficial for aspiring and current Marketing Managers. The course covers essential skills such as preparing for interviews, making a positive first impression, and answering traditional interview questions. These skills are crucial for Marketing Managers who need to effectively communicate their qualifications and demonstrate their understanding of the industry and target audience. Additionally, the course provides insights into researching companies and presenting professional accomplishments, which are valuable for professionals in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Marketing Manager

Product Manager

The course "Successful Interviewing" may be helpful for Product Managers as it covers skills and knowledge that can enhance their success in job interviews. The course focuses on preparing for interviews, making a positive first impression, and answering traditional interview questions effectively. These skills are essential for Product Managers who need to present their qualifications and demonstrate their understanding of product development principles and market trends. Additionally, the course provides insights into persuasive speech techniques, which can be valuable for communicating product visions and strategies to stakeholders.

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Financial Analyst

Financial Analysts may find the course "Successful Interviewing" useful as it covers skills and knowledge that can enhance their success in the job market. The course focuses on preparing for interviews, making a positive first impression, and answering traditional interview questions effectively. These skills are essential for Financial Analysts who need to present their qualifications and demonstrate their understanding of the industry and financial markets. Additionally, the course provides insights into persuasive speech techniques, which can be valuable for communicating complex financial concepts and recommendations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst

UX Designer

The course "Successful Interviewing" may be helpful for UX Designers as it covers skills and knowledge that can enhance their success in job interviews. The course focuses on preparing for interviews, making a positive first impression, and answering traditional interview questions effectively. These skills are essential for UX Designers who need to present their qualifications and demonstrate their understanding of user experience principles and design methodologies. Additionally, the course provides insights into persuasive speech techniques, which can be valuable for communicating design concepts and user insights to stakeholders.

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Data Analyst

The course "Successful Interviewing" may be helpful for Data Analysts as it covers skills and knowledge that can enhance their success in job interviews. The course focuses on preparing for interviews, making a positive first impression, and answering traditional interview questions effectively. These skills are essential for Data Analysts who need to present their qualifications and demonstrate their understanding of data analysis techniques and industry trends. Additionally, the course provides insights into persuasive speech techniques, which can be valuable for communicating complex data insights and recommendations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Software Engineer

The course "Successful Interviewing" may be helpful for Software Engineers as it covers skills and knowledge that can enhance their success in job interviews. The course focuses on preparing for interviews, making a positive first impression, and answering traditional interview questions effectively. These skills are essential for Software Engineers who need to present their qualifications and demonstrate their understanding of software development principles and technologies. Additionally, the course provides insights into persuasive speech techniques, which can be valuable for communicating complex technical concepts and solutions.

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Sales Manager

Sales Managers can benefit from this course as it provides valuable guidance on how to make a positive first impression, communicate effectively, and persuade potential clients. The course also covers strategies for handling salary negotiations, which is a key aspect of sales roles. By developing these skills, Sales Managers can increase their success in attracting and retaining top talent for their teams and driving sales growth for their organizations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sales Manager