For many of us, it’s time to start thinking about our careers; Questions like ‘Where do I want to work? What kind of job do I want? How much money can I make?’ all begin to cloud our mind. The endless fretting over our future can be quite exhausting. As college students, we are at that age where it’s time to replace the beer pong table with a nice, oak desk. It’s time to focus more on our education and seeing where that takes us.
During this time, many of you will be partaking in internships over the summer, whether to get a jump start on your career or to test the waters and see what kind of job you like. An internship can prove to be an excellent way to gain experience in your field of study. It’s also a great source of networking– it’s all about who you know more than what you know. Internships also pave the way to a full time job.
But, first things first, you have got to nail the interview. How do you do that? Well, I received a few tips from Dee Vandeventer, a partner of ME&V Advertising + Consulting, which is an advertising, marketing, and fundraising company in Cedar Falls. Here are some tips she gave me when I spoke to her at my own internship interview.
1. Speak like a professional
You’re not having a casual conversation with your friends or family. You are speaking with someone of higher authority than yourself. You should address them as Mr. or Ms. This will impress them because you are greeting them with respect.
2. Write out your voicemails
If you’re like me, you probably have a hard time sounding professional on the phone, especially if you’re caught off guard by a voicemail. Ms. Vandeventer would suggest writing out what you would like to say and to keep it precise.
3. Dress appropriately
This just goes without saying. Looking nice for an interview gives off a good first impression and shows that you are serious about this job.
4. Use eye contact and a firm hand shake
Although it’s not a determining factor, many business people would agree that a firm hand shake and good eye contact throughout the conversation is very impressive and is something they look for.
5. Bring a resume and portfolio
Having your resume on hand in case they want to look at it is always a good idea. Also, if you have a portfolio of works you’ve done, even from high school, you should bring that in as well. If you’re proud of it and it relates to the job you want, show it off! It might push you over the edge of the competition.
6. Look at the company website
Lots of students neglect to do this. Companies are very impressed when their applicant has prior knowledge of what their company does. It shows that you’re taking serious interest in the company, even before you get the job.
7. Be yourself!
It’s so cliché, but so true! The best way to nail an interview is to show them what you’re all about. Be yourself, be personable, and have fun.