Is there one clear cut way to act in an interview? No, but there are some general rules that need to be followed if you ever hope to get your dream job. As I get close to graduation, I am beginning to feel the pressure of going out into the world to get an interview and land my big-girl job. But I feel that with the right information, job interviews don’t have to be so scary.
I actually had a very good experience with an interview the summer before my freshman year at OhioState. I wrote an essay for the Lehman Scholarship and I was one of only a few people to be admitted for interviews to choose the winner. I had to meet with Sally and William Sitterly so that they could judge whether or not I would be qualified to receive the scholarship that they have been entrusted with. The second that I walked into their home to meet them, I immediately gave my most genuine smile and gave William a firm handshake. His response was, “That’s quite a handshake you’ve got there, I like you already.”
DO
As I said above, the most important thing you can do upon meeting a possible employer is have a good handshake. No one wants to grasp your limp clammy hand. You want to dress your best without overdoing it (ladies, watch the neckline), and you want to SMILE. These three things are absolutely the most important parts. Of all employers, 33 percent know within the first 90 seconds whether or not they want to hire you. You also want to make plenty of eye contact, (without overdoing it and seeming creepy) and you must do your research on the company beforehand. What’s more embarrassing than getting asked, “What do you like about this company?” or “What do you know about us?” and then drawing a blank?
DON’T
Don’t skimp on the research. I can’t stress this enough so it’s in the do’s and don’ts. Do not show up without enough knowledge about the company. Don’t try and act different to try play into what you think they are looking for. Be yourself. Don’t use unprofessional language. Don’t fidget, play with your hair, cross your arms, slouch or seem uninterested. Would you hire someone like that?
Basically, be as professional as you can be, be enthusiastic, be knowledgeable and be genuine. Like I said before, the first 90 seconds are your biggest hurdle. Employers can sense if you are the right person for the job. Make your very best impression and don’t forget to try and have some fun. It’s your dream job after all.
Emily Ann PR 