Preparation is a key component to a successful interview. Review the information below to learn about the type of interviews we conduct at Accenture, key preparation steps, the "dos and don'ts" of interviews and steps to take at the end of an interview.

Interview types

Companies can often use different styles of interviews throughout the interview process. Here is a brief explanation of the three styles that Accenture leverages. Screen Interview: You will have the opportunity to bring life to your resume. Be ready to talk about your activities, work experience, and achievements. The focus of this interview is to better understand your overall experience. Behavioral Interview: You will be asked questions that will prompt you to tell a story about your past experiences. Prior to your interview, think about some of your group projects, accomplishments, activities from which you can share a story. Keep in mind that the focus of this interview is on you and your accomplishments, not on the group's accomplishments. Case Interview: you will be given a situation in which you will be asked to prioritize, analyze, and ultimately draw conclusions and/or recommendations. The focus of this interview is to explore your problem-solving and analytical abilities. On occasion, these interviews may be conducted over the phone. It is important to treat the phone interview with the same importance and prepare as much as you would for an in person interview.

Preparing for the interview

The key to a successful interview is preparation! Keep in mind the following objectives when preparing for your interview. Know yourself: In order to know yourself, you must be able to do the following: Describe what you want in a career/employer Identify your strengths and weaknesses Identify your goals and objectives (short and long term) Be prepared to discuss areas for development in a solution-oriented manner Know your resume: Be familiar with all the information on your resume and be prepared to elaborate on each topic: Contact Information Career Objectives Educational experience Skills Work Experience Extracurricular Activities References Know the industry: Research to get to know the employer and the industry: Company websites Alumni/current employees Corporate literature Newspapers and industry magazines/publications Office of Career Services Attend company information sessions and activities Prepare for the interview day: Plan in advance for your interview day with these simple steps: Ensure you have accurate directions to the interview site (test them if possible) Submit all required documents prior to the interview, or bring them with you if requested Plan the appropriate outfit to present your most professional self Prepare questions about the role and company, to ask should time be given for questions

Interview dos

Arrive early Dress professionally Have a firm handshake and maintain eye contact Portray a positive image Use appropriate language (verbal & non-verbal) Have resume, transcripts and other documents handy Answer the questions Talk about YOU, not others (avoid “We”) Summarize Understand the next steps in the process Relax and be yourself Minimize distractions, such as background noise and dog barking (phone interviews)

Interview don'ts

Be un-prepared Show a lack of knowledge of Accenture Discuss the following topics: politics religion personal relationships/issues Bring up salary on the 1st interview Ask questions like: “What are my chances?” Eat, drink or chew gum during the interview Use a cell phone if possible (phone interviews)

Concluding the interview

During the closing segment of the interview: Thank the interviewer for his/her time Find out how and when you will be contacted Understand what the next steps in the process will be Obtain the interviewer’s contact information Send a thank you note after your interview