Prep
for Job/Internship Search
Before the Interview
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Prepare your resume and cover letter.
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Do your homework: Research the employer with whom you are interviewing. Know the salary range and commit your interest. Match your goals and needs with those of the employer. It is important to know the background of the organization as you may wish to ask questions. Also, learn the interviewer's name.
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Develop your agenda. List what skills you have to offer. Know your strengths and weaknesses.
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Be rested and think positive thoughts.
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Dress in good taste. While many employers encourage individuality, let basic good taste determine how you dress for an interview. Head to foot cleanliness and neatness also will help to create a good first impression.
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Nervousness: It is normal for many people to be nervous, particularly in an interview. It does help to dry a damp brow or a clammy hand just before meeting your interviewer. Experienced interviewers discount a certain amount of nervousness.
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Be yourself. Remember that the interviewer wants to get to know something about you, not hear a memorized speech.
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Be on time: Try to be ten to fifteen minutes early. Call if you will be delayed.
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Be prepared. There are ways in which you can help to prepare yourself for interviewing. The Career Services Center is experienced in acquainting students with basic interviewing techniques.
