by Heather Croft | Feb 11, 2026
- Research the Company
Make sure to familiarize yourself with the company’s mission, values, and any recent news or projects. Understanding the organization will help you speak confidently about why you’re interested in the role and how you can contribute to their goals.
- Understand the Role
Review the job description carefully. Be sure you understand the key responsibilities and required skills. Think about how your past experiences-whether from school, volunteer work, or part-time jobs-can demonstrate your ability to excel in this role.
- Prepare STAR Stories
The STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result/Reflection/Relevance) is a helpful framework for answering behavioural questions. I suggest you prepare 2-3 specific examples that highlight your skills in areas like problem-solving, teamwork, and communication. These stories will help you respond effectively to questions that ask for real-life examples.
- Be Ready to Show Enthusiasm
Co-op positions are all about learning and gaining experience. It’s okay if you’re still building some skills, but be sure to emphasize your passion for learning, contributing to the team, and taking on new challenges.
- Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare a couple of thoughtful questions for the interviewer. Ask about the team culture, what success looks like in the role, or opportunities for growth. Asking these types of questions shows you’re genuinely interested in the position and the company.
- Dress Appropriately
Even if it’s a virtual interview, remember to dress professionally. First impressions matter, and dressing appropriately will help you feel confident and make a positive impression.
- Stay Calm and Confident
It’s normal to feel nervous, but if you do, remember that it’s okay to take a moment to collect your thoughts before answering. It’s better to provide a clear, thoughtful response than to rush through your answers.
- Follow-up
After the interview, send a short thank-you email. Express your gratitude for the opportunity and re-emphasize your enthusiasm for the position. This small gesture goes a long way in leaving a positive impression.
- Use AI for Practice Questions
Upload the job description to an AI tool and ask it to generate the top ten likely interview questions for this position. While the exact questions might not be asked, preparing answers to those questions will help you feel more ready and confident during the interview.
- Be Yourself
It’s important to stay true to who you are during the interview. Trying to be someone else might make you uncomfortable, and it’s likely to show. Employers value authenticity, so embrace your unique qualities and show how they’ll contribute to the role and company.