Step 1: Research the Organization/Industry
Why should you research the employer/grad school and industry? Because when you know all about the organization and/or the industry, and other candidates don’t, you will have the advantage. This knowledge and enthusiasm can sometimes make up for perceived flaws (i.e. lack of experience, age, unrelated major, etc.).
A. Learn as much as you can about the company.
- How large is the organization?
- How long has the organization been in operation?
- What are its products and/or services?
- Does it have a good reputation?
- Does it have regional or branch locations?
B. Learn career vocabulary or “buzz words” in your industry.
C. Consult the following resources:
- The organization’s website or industry sites on the Internet (Use Google to search through the first 5 pages in addition to CareerBliss.com)
- The Kenyon Career Network (Find mentors who work for the organization/industry and conduct an informational interview to learn more.)
- Professional organizations/associations (search http://www.weddles.com/associations/ or http://www.ipl.org/div/aon/)
- Newspaper and magazine articles (many sources, such as http://www.bizjournals.com)
- Industry and organization reference books (e.g., Moody’s Industrial Manual, Standard & Poor’s Register, Hoover’s Handbooks, Occupational Outlook Handbook, etc.)
D. Discover as much as you can about the interviewer.
- The interviewer’s name, including the correct spelling and pronunciation
- The interviewer’s title (This information may give you a clue about whether it will be a general, pre-screening interview conducted by a human resources representative or an in-depth interview conducted by your prospective supervisor.)
Step 2: What to (And Not To) Wear – Interview Attire
55% of a first impression is based on how you look. Dress and grooming are two of the easiest aspects to change in order to achieve your desired image. Project an image that you are successful and professional. You can demonstrate a bit of initiative and imagination within the confines of conservative dress, but when in doubt, play it safe and dress on the conservative side.
Don't know what to wear for an interview? Here are some helpful tips:
- In general, dress above what the job requires
- Wear clothing that is both professional and comfortable for you
- Be clean, which goes for you and your clothing
- Be fairly conservative in dress - a two-piece suit, light colored dress shirt, and coordinating tie for a man. Women should wear either a suit or a dress, also along the conservative lines.
- Wear clean dress shoes
- Use a simple, clean hairstyle
- Avoid excessive jewelry, make-up, or perfume/cologne – less is best!
Step 3: Plan What to Bring
Whether you are participating in an interview on or off campus, it is important to have a few essentials for your interview:
- Two or three (2-3) additional résumés on clean, neat paper (résumé paper is preferred).
- Pad of paper and a pen in a folder or padfolio.
- Portfolio which includes a sample of your work, certificates, awards, etc.
- References with phone numbers (be sure your information is at the top, matching the header on your résumé and cover letter to continue your “brand”).
- Your questions for the employer. Avoid questions readily answered by the position description or through basic research on the employer’s website.
Step 4: Practice Interviewing
Interviewing is a skill, and improvement comes from practice. Click here to learn about Mock Interviews with the CDO.