Thursday, March 28, 2013

Sell me on "you".

I work with people everyday that struggle with the interviewing process.  The majority have very similar problems.

  • They have not thought about what they are going to say before they arrive
  • They do not understand that interviewing is a sales presentation
  • They have not thoroughly reviewed the job description
Each of these points is critical to conducting a successful interview.  First, you must have an understanding of the position you are interviewing for.  If you do not know what skills are required to perform the job functions, how will you convince the interviewer you are a good fit?  The job description is your key to developing your presentation.

Second.  You have to spend a good amount of time organizing your qualifications and deciding what skills/strengths/experience are the most important to present in the interview.  No, you should not develop a script to memorize, but you should have a strategy with areas that you want to highlight.  Knowing what you are going to present prior to arriving will give you confidence and make the interview much easier.  Make your presentation fit the job description.

Last.  Make no mistake, an interview is a sales presentation.  You are attempting to sell yourself to the interviewer.  Interviewing is a competition between you and anyone else who may be interviewed.  You need to be the best. 

Monday, March 18, 2013

Career Fair Update

As of this morning, we have reached our capacity of 121 employers registered for the Career Fair on April 3rd.  Be sure to plan your calendar to incorporate a visit to the College Center in building 920 between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.  A current list of attending employers is found here.  The list will update on Tuesday, March 19th for the final time.

Final reminders for the fair:

  • Open to current students, alumni and the public
  • Employers are looking at you as a potential employee - present yourself accordingly
  • Bring resumes even though some companies may not accept at the fair
  • Do not bring children or other family members with you - does not make a good impression with employers
  • Dress like you are seeking a job - leave the flip flops at home
  • Prioritize the companies you want to speak with - there are over 100, so you can't speak to them all

Above all, enjoy the atmosphere and bring a positive attitude. This is a chance to find employment and learn about our local employers.