Tips and tricks to nail the interview process
April 22, 2024 - Addie Woods
When the spring semester begins, students and graduating seniors across the nation ramp up their search for summer internships and jobs. Plagued with emotions, they might find the search to be a daunting and lengthy task. But there are tips and tricks to help master the art of an interview.
- Research the organization and their ideals before the interview.
Going into an interview, you want to be familiar with the organization, role and the person who will be interviewing you.
Dr. Rebecca Jones, oral communication program administrator and professor in Ouachita’s Rogers Department of Communications, said, “While interviews can feel intimidating, I think job candidates should enter those conversations with optimism, curiosity and a desire to make a connection.”
- Promote your best self.
An interview is generally the first time an employer is putting a face to a resume. It’s important to walk into an interview with confidence; be prepared to talk about how your experience is relevant to the position.
“While it’s important to be honest, this is a time to brag about who you are,” said Dr. Jackson Carter, professor in the Department of Communications. “Show the potential employer your best side and highlight the parts about you and your work that stand out.”
- Stay encouraged throughout the interview process.
In the world of digital interviews, it can be easy to get discouraged during the process.
“An invitation to interview is an indication that an employer sees you as a possible fit,” Jones said. “The employer has identified you as a candidate they’d like to get to know, and it shows they are interested in you.”
It’s important to remember that being offered an interview is a big deal and to stay encouraged throughout the process!
- Keep your options open.
You don’t have to find your dream job on the first try.
“It is okay to apply for a job or an internship that you don’t feel 100% sold on,” said Carter. “Even places where you know you won’t be forever can provide some pretty great lessons; you may also find out you were wrong and that you love the work.”
- Send a handwritten note after the interview.
Stand out! The practice of writing handwritten letters has been lost in the digital age, but a handwritten note thanking the interviewer for their time and consideration will set you apart.
Addie Woods is a senior communications & media/strategic communications major from Searcy, Ark.
Lead photo: Student gets professional headshot taken at Nerworking Expo. Photo by Meghann Bledsoe
You Also Might Like
Recent