Colton – Qualtrics Interview 1/10/18
Cover Letter and Resume Feedback:
Format needs some work. I like the template you used, especially with the links on the bottom. I believe that YN is a designated spot for Your Name, so update that. Cover letter should be 3 paragraphs. First paragraph: introduction stating your interest, add how you heard about the position and which position. Many employers have multiple positions, so this detail is important.
Cover your qualifications in the second paragraph and make certain to align it to the job description. You are technically strong and need to make sure you have enough detail so that comes through. For example, don’t just say I am fluent in many languages and I have a lot of experience, be a little more specific. Say things like, I have experience working on project teams and collaborating with others. I am very confident with javascript which I used for a project at… I would love the opportunity to strengthen my skills and learn about web scalability which is why this internship is so appealing…
The goal of the 3rd paragraph is to state that you want an interview to learn more.
Tips to make it even better: Tie it specifically to the company description and job description. Qualtrics is focused on SaaS cloud computing and web scalability – mention these types of things – either your experience with these or your desire to learn more during this internship. The job description mentions working closely with others and collaboration, beef up your teamwork and collaboration experience in the cover letter or on the resume.
Resume. Good organization and format. SKILLS section is good, just make sure to list the ALL the specific technologies and languages you have experience using. In the EXPERIENCE section, add some details for each of the experiences noted. For example, PCCAPS – describe more about the app you created and its purpose, how was it intended to be used? What languages and technology wereused. Don’t be afraid to add what you learned or which skills you improved as a result of that project. Under Education add a short description of what each class covered. Most employers will not know what PCCAPS W/ software development covered – list languages and technologies. Robotics club and experience sounds cool, but need details. You led the regional competition. What did that entail? You volunteered at the competition, doing what specifically? This is a very interesting topic, show it off a little and add exciting details.
Interview Feedback:
You did very well! I really enjoyed your interview. Your let your excitement for development show and that is always refreshing!!!! Don’t ever hide your excitement. You are the only candidate who mentioned having FUN! You also mentioned your dedication and reliability (always being there) very good !! Your confidence in development came through and you were easily able to talk about your projects. Add some of those details to your resume and it will become much stronger.
Eye contact is hard via web. Many companies are using web interviews. Test it out in advance and figure out how to make eye contact with the interviewer for an added advantage– it is odd as you usually have to look at the camera and not their image. You actually did very well with this – good job!
Good job working in AGILE. It shows you have development knowledge beyond what the company has noted in the job description and conveys development experience.
You appeared very comfortable, not nervous at all. I understand this was a practice interview, but for actual interviews have prepared questions. Always ask about the company, potential learning and growth opportunities, etc. Do some homework and interview the interviewer on the company and position. You may decide it’s a company where you do not want to work. Fully understand your options before making a career choice.