How to interview for a BlueCat co-op/intern position

You’ve been through the BlueCat co-op application process, and now you’ve been selected by BlueCat Networks for an interview! Congratulations! We know interviews are challenging, which is why we’ve created this interview guide. Although this list of helpful interview tips was made with co-op students in mind, these tips will help you with any interview. Let’s get to it!

Tip #1: Relax

Interviews are nerve-racking. If your interview is 30 minutes long, your gut might tell you to say as much as you can in as little time as possible to show the hiring manager how much you know. Don’t. If you’re on edge and sound like Eminem in Rap God, the hiring manager won’t be happy. They might bob their head, though.

Breathe. Slow down. Be confident. Half the battle is projecting the confidence that you can do the job.

Remember: if you’re sweating through 3 layers of clothing, you’re probably overdressed. Wow, great segue.

Tip #2: Dress for the Role

If you’re interviewing for a sales position, don’t rent a tux. Actually, whatever you’re interviewing for, don’t wear a tux. Plus, if it’s a Zoom interview, you only really need to be dressed from the waist up anyway. If you’re unsure, dress in business casual attire.

Tip #3: Know Your Stuff

The interviewers are trying to get a sense of what you know and how you’ll vibe with the team.

We give co-op students a lot of slack because we know you don’t have much experience so potential plays an important role.

However, even if all your report cards said you have the potential to be the next Mark Zuckerberg, remember to come prepared. You’ll feel more confident and your interviewer will appreciate it!

Tip #4: Answer Questions Properly

Every question you’re asked is an opportunity to show the hiring manager what you know. Answer questions with relevance. Without adding fluff, try to expand on your ideas rather than giving one-word answers.

For the technical questions, the hiring managers care more about how you think rather than providing the optimal solution. Talk them through your thought process, and don’t be afraid to ask questions if you’re unsure of anything.

If you’re unsure of how to answer behavioral questions, try answering them using the STAR technique.

Tip #5: Prepare Intelligent Questions

When asking questions of your own, again, relevance is key. Try to avoid asking questions or things you will find out once you’re hired like “What’s your dress code?”

Tip #6: Presenting

Like the technical questions, when presenting your project, the hiring managers care more about how you think. Talk about your thinking process, how you overcame challenges, and how you personally contributed to the project/what you worked on.

If you feel like there’s a frog in your throat when answering questions or presenting your project, see Tip #1. We’re all different, but if you really want to wow your interviewers, avoid speaking in a hushed monotone voice. The best way to get over interview and presentation nerves is by practicing. Wow! Another incredible and subtle segue!

Tip #7: Practice

As the adage says, practice makes perfect. Practice your questions and answers with someone to ensure that you can answer questions in a composed fashion so that when it’s time for your interview, your personality can shine through.

Avoid practicing with your dog or cat, though. Try practicing with friends, classmates, your parents, the convenience store guy, or any human that can give you good feedback.

If everything goes well, you’ll get an offer! Remember, preparation is key. The more prepared you are, the better your interview performance will be. If you have more questions about the interview process, check out our co-op process page. Good luck!