Preparing for a job search can be very confusing and intimidating; however, with proper planning, organization and time management skills, it can be very rewarding.

Career Services invites you to use the many services that are offered to assist you during your job search process.

Job Search Seminars:

Career Services staff conduct seminars throughout the year to assist students and alumni in preparing for their job search. Dates are posted online and topics include resume and cover letter writing, interviewing tips, and other job search strategies. Employers also conduct "mock interviews" which give students and alumni a "second chance to make a first impression." Register by contacting Career Services.

Career Services Resource Room:
Books, handouts and videos are available to assist with all areas of your job search.
Individual Appointments:
If you want to discuss career options, preparing for your job search or have your resume critiqued, contact Career Services to schedule an appointment with a member of our staff during our office hours.

Preparing for the Interview

The interview provides an opportunity for the employer to get to know you and determine if you are a good fit for their company. It also gives the applicant the opportunity to "market themselves" and learn as much as they can about the position and the company. Remember that "first impressions" make a statement and that you do not have a "second chance" to make a first impression!

Before the Interview

Research the Company: Find out all you can and be able to discuss products, services, etc. Visit the company's website, obtain annual reports if available and/or talk with employees if at all possible. Know what position you are interviewing for and obtain a job description.
Gather Materials You May Need: Bring extra copies of your resume, a list of references, letters of recommendation, work samples or portfolio if applicable.

**Make List of Questions you want to ask
**Rehearse Answers to Some of the Questions You Expect to be Asked
Dress for Success

It is important to know your potential employer before you meet with them since each company has its own dress codes. However, if in doubt, it is better to be overdressed than underdressed.

Professional Dress is generally recommended and includes:
Men:
  • A solid colored two-piece suit.
  • A conservative tie, avoid flashy or eccentric ties.
  • Wear polished shoes with socks high enough so that your skin is not visible when you sit down and cross your legs.
  • Always be well groomed.
  • Men should refrain from wearing earrings and heavy jewelry.
Women:
  • A suit with a knee-length skirt and tailored blouse is most appropriate.
  • Basic closed-toe shoes, stockings, modest jewelry and makeup are recommended.
  • Pants are more acceptable today; however, they are not recommended unless you are sure that they would be appropriate.
  • Hair should be neat.

In some cases an "interview suit" is not necessary and business casual attire is appropriate. The business casual look can be slacks, skirts or khakis. It includes a collared shirt (button-down or polo style), a nice blouse for women, a sweater or coordinated separates. Women should wear skirts that come to or near the knee, closed-toe shoes and stockings. Avoid low-cut blouses. Never wear jeans, shorts, tank tops, excessive jewelry, tennis shoes or flip flops. Always be well groomed.

After the Interview

Send a thank you note addressed to the interviewer within 24 hours. A handwritten note is acceptable; however, a typed personal letter is preferred. If an employer asks you to correspond through email, that is a signal that they would accept your thank you via email.

If you have not heard from the company after the expected date, contact the company by phone to ask if the position has been filled. If you don't get the job but are very interested in working for the company, you might want to express your interest in future openings and check back periodically to find out if any new openings are available.

If the position was not the right one for you, don't despair. Review your job search plan and your presentation skills. Get help if necessary and continue your job search.