Resumé and Interview Tips

Here's some advice to keep in mind when interviewing:

• Dress professionally and conservatively.
• Bring extra copies of your resumé and be ready to provide at least two professional references (names and telephone numbers).
• Come prepared with extra copies of your resumé and at least two professional references' names and numbers.
• Shake hands at the beginning and end of the interview.
• Maintain eye contact throughout the interview.
• Ask questions pertaining to the career opportunity and the company first. Leave questions about salary for the end. Although money is a known motivator, companies don't want to see that as a primary concern for entry-level applicants.
• Have your questions written down before you go into an interview. Don't wing it! The more prepared you are, the better. Elaborate–give more than yes or no answers. Show initiative.
• If possible, review the company website prior to your interview. No need to memorize–just get a feel for what the company has to offer its clients and you as a potential employee.
• Ask for business cards from each person with whom you interviewed and send thank you letters.

Questions to Ask (Or Not to Ask) the Interviewer:

• Ask about the specific duties of the job for which you are interviewing. If you are not familiar with a particular job, ask which job might be a good match for your skills and experience.
• Don't ask about educational assistance too early during the interview process. It gives the impression that may only be only looking for a free ride to an advanced degree.
• Think long term–ask about medical benefits and 401K plans.
• Ask about company profitability, any recent lay-offs, etc.
• Ask why the position is open–due to attrition (someone leaving the position) or due to business growth.
• Ask if you can spend some time with someone currently filling the same position. They can give you a lot of insight to the day-to-day work.
• Ask about career development. What is a typical promotion for someone in that job?
• Ask when you will hear back from them. What is the next step in the process? Should you call to follow up?
• Ask for a business card.

Resumé-Writing Tips:

• Entry-level resumés should be one page in length.
• List specific degree (BS/BA) and minors/concentrations.
• List past job experiences, even if it doesn't pertain to your major or the job for which you are interviewing. Going to school and working is not easy. Demonstrate that you are not afraid to work hard.
• List extra-curricular activities and student organizations–only those academic or civic in nature.
• Do not include a picture of yourself.
• List all computer skills–you may be surprised how your knowledge of some obscure software could land you the job.
• Be completely honest. Don't lie–even a little–to beef up your resume. Most employers do check past employment, education, etc.