Washington Week: Student Voices (O)

Learning tips to interviews may help land jobs
By I'sha Gaines
The Shorthorn (U. Texas-Arlington)
07/21/2006

(U-WIRE) ARLINGTON, Texas — As if coursework wasn't enough, students should be prepared to study for their job interviews.

Research, an outstanding resume, a good attitude and proper attire are things that can guarantee a position.

Joanne Mueller, regional human resources director for Ross Stores, said arriving 15 minutes early for an interview impresses the employer and can provide extra time in case of traffic.

"It gives you a chance to compose yourself and get your thoughts together," she said.

She said employers even look at how neat the job application is and concentrate on small things like eye contact and fidgeting. She said that to avoid being overly nervous, students should research the company, review interviewing techniques and get advice on how to dress properly.

Mueller said that in case of emergency, students should have extra resumes and ask for a business card.

"I personally still believe in sending a thank you note after the interview," she said. "You can do it by e-mail. It's quick, sufficient, polite and respectful."

With information available and avenues to conduct proper research, Donnie Sweat, building attendant for university housing, said students should also act with dignity.

Conducting yourself like a dignified person while on a job interview is something forgotten in some of the "young people" of this generation, Sweat said.

"The modesty that existed a generation ago is not there," he said. "We do have some good kids, but it's more acceptable to be disrespectful."

He said that in his generation, charming personalities and positive attitudes gained them personal success. He said that with the same attitude, students can get the jobs that they've studied so hard for in college.

"You didn't do all of that studying just so you can get a job and punch a time clock," he said. "An upbeat person generally does well in every task they tackle. If you think positive, it will reflect on the outside."

He said that he does not want to discourage the "young people" of this generation, but encourage them to respect themselves so they can be respected by employers.

He said students make better candidates for well-paying jobs because they are educated, younger and have free spirits and new ideas.

"They surpass our accomplishments," he said. "They always have."

With all of things that can impress employers, there are also things that can irritate them. Students should be aware that employers conduct background research.

Zac Sanders, political science senior and Student Congress president, said employers can check networking Web sites like Myspace and Facebook to do research on the personal lives of the students.

He said students should take any inappropriate photos and content off of the site. He said students should concentrate on their image when applying for jobs and dress appropriately.

"What you wear to the club on a Saturday is probably not something you would want to wear on a job interview or in the office," he said.

Sanders said a resume and personality can set students apart from other applicants and should elaborate on individual leadership skills and other accomplishments.

"It gives you the edge over other candidates," he said "Be professional, but also show personality. "By being yourself, you'll find if a job is a good fit."

Finance Junior Khoa Nguyen said that even with advice about proper interviewing behavior, students will have to prove themselves.

He said students wonder if they are worthy of the position and often feel that they are not the better candidate.

"Students fear being told 'No,' " he said.

He also said students have a hard time balancing school and their social lives, so they are lackadaisical when it comes to working. He said that as students mature, they will learn to adjust their schedules and put forth a better effort.

"We are getting older, and we are more able to adapt," he said.

Nguyen said it's OK for students to make mistakes because they are learning how to operate in corporate America.

"You learn from each interview and experience," she said. That's where you get your knowledge."

10 Tips for a good interview

1. Prepare a good resume. Web sites like http://www.monster.com and http://www.careerbuilder.com can help you write them.

2. Apply for the position and research the company.

3. Call or e-mail to confirm that your resume was received and keep in contact with the employer.

Remember to put a good callback number for the employer on your resume. You don't want to play phone tag with the employer. It can show that you are not interested in the position.

4. Be sure to ask the employer about proper attire for the interview. Ask if there is anything extra that you should bring to the interview and get directions to the facility.

5. Plan to arrive at the interview site 15-20 minutes early.

6. While waiting, gather your thoughts and think about what you want to accomplish in the interview.

7. Once the employer steps in the room, stand up, make eye contact, say hello, and shake their hand.

8. While in the interview answer questions with confidence, ask questions respectfully and take notes. This will show that you have a genuine interest in the position that you are applying for.

9. Do not be hasty and do not be too intimidated by the employer. If they ask you a tough question, ask them to explain it or give limited responses.

Remember that if you are asked something like "What are your weaknesses?" turn it into a positive attribute. If you are asked "Where do see yourself in the next five years?" give an answer that shows that you will be stable. For example, "Buying a home."

10. After the interview, shake the interviewer's hand, and thank them for their time and consideration. Be sure to get their business card.

Remember to send a thank-you note immediately by e-mail if possible, if not by mail. Wait approximately 2-4 days to call the employer to check on the status of your application.

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