We are fast approaching summer break at KU, which means now is the time for securing jobs and internships. One of the most important steps in the process of doing so is the interview. It is what separates you from other candidates with similar qualifications. Moreover, it provides you with an opportunity to determine if you would fit into the work environment. Given this, here are some tips from someone who is no expert, but who has gone through the interview process many times.
1. Dress Professionally, yet comfortably
It is well known that one should dress appropriately for a job or internship interview. Hiring managers are looking to see if you can bring a sense of professionalism and responsibility to the workplace. However, comfort is incredibly important when interviewing, and should determine what you wear. If you are uncomfortable in heels and will walk awkwardly, perhaps opt for reasonable flats. Furthermore, make sure anything you wear to an interview fits and does not impede your ability to sit down. While one should dress appropriately for an interview, there exist many options in each dress code that allow for some flexibility. Comfort brings confidence, and confidence will help convince an employer to hire you.
2. Tailor your Cover Letter/Résumé to each job
Your rĂ©sumĂ© is crucial to the interview process. It allows the interviewer to gain an idea of who you are and what qualifications you have that relate to the job you’re applying for. This is why you should not turn in the same rĂ©sumĂ©/cover letter for each job you apply for. If you expect the hiring manager to take the time to read your application, you should take the time to update the required documents. Typically, no drastic changes are needed, but small adjustments can be helpful. You could change the wording of your skills to match the wording of the job description. Or, change the order of the bullet points you put to match the relevance they have to what you’re applying to. Finally, always write a cover letter if doing so is an option and customize it as much as possible. If you know the hiring manager’s name, address them at the top of the letter. Include the position and company you are applying for if possible. Every small change will demonstrate that you have put effort into your application and have a vested interest in being hired.
3. Send a Thank-You email
As a polite gesture, one should send a thank-you email to the interviewer. It can remind the interviewer of you and make you stand out as they review your application. However, there are some rules for doing this. First, if an employer explicitly states they do not wish to receive communication after the interview, ignore this tip. You want to demonstrate that you know how to follow directions. Second, do not make any demands in the note. The thank-you email is meant to serve as a thank-you, not an attempt to bombard the interviewer with pressure to disclose their decision date or answer many questions. Finally, send the email as soon as possible and make sure to include an offer to provide any additional materials or answers to questions. This will ensure your email reaches the interviewer before they make their decision about your employment and demonstrates your communication skills.
Best of luck to everyone navigating a job/internship hunt at the moment. Remember that rejection is redirection and you will find somewhere that values you soon. And even if you are not looking for a job/internship at the moment, these tips will be useful in general at all stages of life.