My CollegeRecruiter.com | Employers & Advertisers
My CollegeRecruiter.com | Employers & Advertisers
working as a research assistant at American University I used Microsoft Access to create a database to track research on emerging democracies. My supervisor and many professors complimented me on how the user-friendly program allowed them to quickly retrieve the necessary information. As a Program Associate at XYZ Corp I would hope to be able to use my language skills, computer skills and excellent writing skills to make a valuable contribution to your team.” This answer is much more effective because it speaks to the specifics of the job and not just the organizations goals.
· What should you do with the research?
If you have done your research correctly then you will have a good understanding of the company and what they envision your role to be. This knowledge will show through in your interview.
· One tip you may want to try:
Pick three things you want them to remember about you and write them down (i.e. attention to detail, great research skills, team-player). Practice your answers and see if you can incorporate those three points. Much like a political campaign that try's to hammer home one or two points your job is to make sure the interviewer thinks of those three things when your name comes up.
The Day of the Interview
It is okay to be nervous. Interviews are one of the most stressful events you can go through and most employers will understand if you are a little apprehensive.
? Dress
There are numerous books on how to dress for an interview. The best advice is dress conservatively, professionally and be well groomed. This means a suit, white shirt, conservative tie for men and the equivalent for women. When in doubt, err on the side of being too conservative.
? Get there Early
Know exactly where you are going. Get there 10-15 minutes early
If you haven't been to this office before try going there once before interview. Interviews are stressful enough on their own. You don't want to add to the tension be running in 30 seconds before the questions start.
? What to Bring
Carry a professional looking briefcase, not a backpack. Make sure to bring anything that they asked such as a work permit, portfolio or writing sample. If they did not ask you to bring anything make sure you take multiple copies of your resume, business cards (if you have them), a writing pad and pen, and samples of relevant work if you have them. It is unlikely you will need many of these items but it is better to have them and not need them than to need them and not have them.
The Interview
? The Interview is always going on
From the minute you arrive at the office - be polite to everyone! Many companies check the candidate's behavior with the secretary after interview. Never assume that the interview is over and now you are just having a conversation - this goes for outside the interview setting as well. The interview lasts from first contact to your first day on the job.
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