The Interview

Most college students have never held a permanent full-time professional job, but they probably have interviewed for a part-time or temporary job. The position probably didn't require a lot of initiative, and maybe the employer didn't expect a long commitment. In any event, the requirements were probably little more than reliability, dependability, and a modicum of intelligence. Full-time permanent job interviews, as well as graduate school interviews, however, require much more evidence of your skills and potential.

While a good resume might get you an interview, as the conventional wisdom says, it won't get you the job. A good interview is how you will get hired.

The conventional wisdom also says:

Research the job and the company beforehand;
Practice answering basic questions you'll get asked (e.g. "why do you want this job?");
Bring a list of your own questions: about benefits, the work environment, etc.;
Do your best to be polite, dress nicely, and maintain eye contact.

More of the conventional wisdom is available at these sites:

Interviewing (Maryville College): Advice from MC's Career Services
Keys to Successful Interviewing (State of Wisconsin): An official document from the State Department of Workforce Development. It lists specific strategies of answering difficult interview questions.
Interviewing (Arizona State University): Part of a larger Career Services web site. It emphasizes appearance and attitude in the interview.
Interviewing (Northern Illinois University): Also part of a larger website ("Job Hunter's Guide"). Detailed descriptions and instructions on interviews, as well as telephone and second interviews.
How to Prepare for Interviewing (University of Kentucky): Emphasis on researching the employer, presenting yourself, and non-verbal communication.

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This page created by Christopher Ryland 25 August 2000. Last updated 25 August 2000.