Job interviews are a necessary rite of passage into the real world. Whether you're looking for a part-time or full-time job after graduation, a few key strategies can help students maintain confidence and poise throughout an interview and impress their potential employers.
The main goal of an interview from the candidate's standpoint is to convey their skills effectively and market their strengths. It is important to come to an interview prepared with an outline of what to emphasize to the recruiter. Bob Orrange, associate director for Career Services, believes that preparing mentally prior to the interview is the key to success.
"First, take an inventory of yourself. We do have things that we are better at then others. Come up with the three best things," Orrange said. "Think of a good example that proves each one. You want to practice a little bit saying your answers so that you're comfortable with how you're sounding. You don't want the first time that you say something positive about yourself to be in an actual interview."
According Orrange, a first step in preparing for an interview is thorough background research. Whether it is for a job at the mall or a marketing firm, it's important to know the company inside and out. Information on many companies and organizations can be found on the company's Web site, or through newspaper archives and online databases via UB Libraries.
"You want to know more about their company than the next person. You want to prove to them that you genuinely want to work for that company," Orrange said. "They care that you want a job with them. The best way to get somebody interested in you is to show interest in them."
When it comes to the actual interview, be sure to look the part. Students should dress professionally in order to make the best possible first impression on a recruiter. According to the online Employment Guide, conservative suits (preferably darker shades) are appropriate for both men and women when applying to a corporate or office-type job. For a position with a casual dress code, dress pants and a button-down top are more acceptable.
Students should use their discretion to determine what is appropriate to wear to an interview. In any setting, some rules always apply; keep jewelry and perfume to a minimum.
Victoria Russo, a senior psychology major, has found attitude to be an important component of her own interview experiences.
"When you're going through an interview, maintain eye contact," Russo said, including that enthusiasm could play a major role also.
"Be confident and smile," said Shruti Kumar, a freshman business administration major. "The small things make a difference, like asking before you sit and making eye contact."
Miles Fonda, a sophomore graphic design major, recently interviewed for a company related to his field. He took measures to prepare mentally beforehand.
"I thought about why I'd want this job so that I'd have a strong framework in my mind," Fonda. said "It's important to show them that you can be the person that they want."
Some potential employers require submission of a portfolio and resume prior to the interview, depending on the nature of the open position. The number of pieces required will vary depending on the employer.
"It's important to keep in touch with them," Fonda said. "Lots of people just let what happens, happen."
Career Services offers information on all aspects of career searching, including resume building and interviewing strategies. They also offer practice job interviews for students looking to have a one-on-one rehearsal opportunity. More information including workshops, counselor information and tips for success can be found at their office in 259 Capen Hall.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
