You’ve found the internship, submitted the resume and now you just got a call for an in-person interview. Whether it’s your first interview or the 10th, meeting a potential employer can be more than a little nerve-racking. There’s always something to learn for the next one, and two of Syracuse University’s career center professionals have some advice for you:

 

Daniel Klamm, SU Career Services:

1. ‘Do your research. There’s nothing worse than walking into an interview without knowing about the company. You should be able to clearly articulate why you’re interested in that particular company and that specific position. Check the company’s website, search for recent news items featuring the company, read the company’s blog and look for their Twitter or Facebook page.’

2. ‘Know yourself. You need to be ready for all sorts of questions about yourself, including your past experience, education, knowledge, skills, strengths, weaknesses, preferences and personal traits. Figure out how these things align with the needs of the employer.’

 3. ‘Prepare questions in advance. When an employer asks ‘Do you have any questions?’ always ask questions. It shows you’re enthusiastic and interested in working for the organization.’ 

4. ‘Practice, practice, practice! Visit Career Services for a mock interview, where we simulate the actual interview experience and provide you with feedback afterward. This is a great way to ease your nerves and boost your confidence before a real interview.’

 

Amy Friers, academic services counselor for the College of Arts and Sciences:

1. ‘Dress for success. Any time you meet with a potential employer formally (through an information session, workshop you attend or a career fair) or informally (through a family friend or for a casual informational interview), always dress and conduct yourself in a professional manner.’

2. ‘Before you arrive, put the cell phone away, change your shoes and attire if necessary and put away your water bottle miles away. You never know who you can run into.’

3. ‘Shake his or her hand and look him or her in the eye, even if you’re nervous. No one expects perfection, just professionalism. Nonverbal cues are just as important as what you say.’

4. ‘Have extra copies of your resume on hand.’

5. ‘Always, always send a follow-up ‘thank you,’ either as a card or e-mail. Follow-through is an important transferable skill to exhibit.’

— Compiled by Amrita Mainthia, asst. feature editor, mainthia@syr.edu

Published on February 13, 2011 at 12:00 pm