As the school year is slowly coming to a close, seniors have begun to feel the senioritis bug they once felt in high school. Yet, this time, instead of worrying about prom and what pool you plan on going to this summer, seniors must be setting up potential job interviews or preparing for graduate school. Although many might have already figured out what their plans will be for the future, some students might have stalled over these last few months. An integral part of any job seeking process is the interview.
Yet, many students find themselves very nervous and unsure of themselves when they encounter a potential employer in an interview session. In order to be better prepared, we must work and practice on our interviewing skills by doing mock interviews. Once we have learned how to promote our abilities, we will have the confidence to enter any work place with a competent attitude.
Sometimes a student can get nervous when put on the spot, especially if this is a job that he really wants. Yet, there are some things an interviewee should never say during the session. The online job resource center, Monster, reports there are 10 things a candidate should never ask.
First, never ask about the perks of the job. If you are offered the job, that would be an appropriate time ask about the benefits. One should also never ask how the company is doing. Before the interview, make sure you do your research on the company and where they are in comparison to their competitors. Monster also states that you should not talk poorly of your last boss. Although you might feel that the boss treated you unfairly, the interviewer will think you just complain a lot. Make sure to always end on a positive note when in an interview, even if you discuss a negative event.
Also, an interviewee should never compliment the interviewer on his or her physical appearance. Even if you are saying you like their shoes, it can appear as superficial and unprofessional. Fifth, never complain. Although you might have a headache or have eaten too much at lunch, never tell your interviewer your personal problems as it is inappropriate in a business setting. Another common problem that interviewees have is discussing how they were released from their last job. If you were fired previously, do not bluntly state it. Simply say that you and your boss did not see eye-to-eye on certain things, and you decided to take your creative energy elsewhere.
Never show your desperation for a job. Although you may have been searching for months, never use the sympathy card on an interviewer. Also, never say, “I don’t know.” If you do not know the answer, say you will get back to them, or think the question out loud. Never be afraid to think over your questions. The interviewer knows you want to answer in the best way possible and wants to see you problem-solve or think. Lastly, never say your biggest weakness is that you work too hard. Interviewers really do want to hear what you are striving to fix.
If you still feel that you are not prepared for your interview, make sure to stop by the Student Success Center on campus. They have an abundance of workshops, classes and staff that would be willing to coach you through anything you might need. This is a wonderful resource we have on campus, and each student should use this to his or her advantage.
Interviewing can be scary, especially if this is your first time doing it in the real world. Just make sure to wear an appropriate outfit, come in with a big smile, and be as honest and professional as possible. Always make sure to send a thank you note to your interviewer as well. Remember to be grateful, curious and open to learning new things. If you practice common questions and come prepared, you will enter the office being a confident and ready college graduate who is about to make an impact on our world.
— Samantha Trueheart is a sophomore in communications. She can be reached at [email protected].
