For those graduating in May 2016, your “Senior Semester” has finally arrived! Congrats to the thousands of graduates who will walk across the stage, pull the tassel across your decorated cap, and shine brightly in your announcement photos. But one four-word phrase is as daunting as four letter words are to some: “So what is next?”
Getting ready for the “next” part of your life can seem daunting. Which is why Interview Season or #InterviewSZN is here. Keep reading for how to be prepared before you go into the interview!
1. Start building a professional wardrobe. Blazers, ties, and shoes that aren’t made for running should always be a wardrobe staple. Make a goal to purchase or find at least one item you can wear during the interview and afterwards in a professional setting. Business attire doesn’t have to be expensive! Shop around at your local thrift stores, see what friends are willing to trade, and remember SALES matter. When EXPRESS had a major 50% off sale, I was ecstatic! Additionally, see if your university offers money for professional attire. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill provides a clothing stipend for those with financial need.
2. Research the company of interest. Do your homework! You will look smarter, more prepared and be more memorable if you are able to explain why you are well-suited for the company. In order to do this, it is vital that you research the company you are interviewing for before the interview. If it is a small company or a new start-up, be sure to ask what projects they have worked on. Show a vested interest in the company, so they will feel more comfortable in investing in you.
3. Always ask what their needs are. Imagine this: person A goes into a company and immediately starts explaining why they are the best candidate. The interviewers may be impressed with the candidate, but person B goes into the exact same company and asks what their needs are. Person B is able to mold their experiences so that they align with the company’s needs. Person A was great, but Person B is able to get the job done. Ask what they need, find out in the job description and market yourself to that.
4. Learn their reputation. Most people wouldn’t go on a date with a person they had just met without stalking, or ahem… researching, their online profiles. While this may create a false sense of security in believing that the person you met will be a great date, it does make you feel more comfortable. Apply this same principle to your future opportunity. Learn as much as you can about what other people have to say concerning the company, for example, past employees. You’ll feel better knowing how a company treats employees or you’ll find something you don’t like and will invest your time into seeking other options.
5. Have a list of questions in mind to ask. One of the questions can come from #3 on this list; however, other questions should tell you more about the company and the type of people and work they value. You should also ask questions of your interviewer(s): What’s their favorite movie? What do they do in their spare time? Do they have a second job? Some questions will help you gage whether you’re able to make a solid living, others will reveal your personality. Come up with a few questions so you can keep the conversation going. Also, in nearly every single interview, I’ve been asked, “Do you have any questions?” You should always have questions.
I’ll have more job hunting tips as we all dive deeper into our last semester (YAY SENIORS). HCXO, thanks for reading!