Interviewing Advice
While a great resume can get you in the door, a great interview gets you the job. It is critical that you set aside time to prepare for your interview. Failure to prepare and practice for an interview could cost you that dream job.
Interviews are a little like oral exams. You can see them as dreaded ordeals or opportunities to learn more about a position and to highlight your strengths for a prospective employer. Preparing in advance makes it more likely that you will see it as an opportunity.
There are lots of things you can do to get ready. For instance, have you thought about your accomplishments and written them down in the STAR format (Situation/Task, Action, Result)? Do you have a 30-second "pitch" to describe yourself? Do you know the questions that are most likely to be asked during an interview?
The Career Center can help with all of these questions and more. Attend an interview skills workshop or go to the Virtual Career Center's library of downloads and workshops on Interview Skills. It's Not Over Until You Say "Thank You!"
Well, it's not over until the thank-you notes are written. That's right, your interviewers took time out of their schedule to give you an opportunity to tell them why you matched their requirements. A personal "thank you" conveys that you understand basic etiquette and appreciate their time and consideration. SCOTLink's Resume Builder has a great thank-you note builder.
Ever Wonder What You Should or Should Not Say?
Questions that focus on your age, race, gender, disability, religion, marital status or other reasons that are contrary to equal employment and anti-discrimination laws. Download our list of questions that should be considered unfair.
Need Some Practice, But Don't Have the Time?
The Career Center understands that students have busy, chaotic schedules. It is not always easy to find someone to help you prepare. Optimal Interview is an online tool to help you practice... whether at noon or midnight. Go to InterviewSream open your account and begin practicing your Q & A skills before the "Big Day." Download the interview handout for more help!