Interview advice

8 | Career Expo Guide 2020 Career resources specialist offers advice for interviews

M. TODD DEARING Staff Reporter @mtodddearing

With all the fun that can come with college, there is an expectation for every student to use their degree for a career. The first step toward a career is making a good impression in an interview.

For some this can be a daunting task. You can be an expert in any field and still feel unconfident when it comes to sitting across from someone who could decide your future. Here are some tips for making a good first impression at an interview from MSU career resources specialist, Valerie Kidd.

1. Research the company. This seems pretty obvious, but consider how much stress you can save yourself. Know the company inside out, follow them on social media and be sure that it’s one you want to work for.

2. Reread the job posting and think of skills your potential employer is seeking. Make sure you can bring those skills.

3. Make sure your clothes are ready at least the night before. It’s no secret that how you dress can lead to success, so don’t let a last-minute wardrobe malfunction mess you up.

4. Be approachable. Interviews can be one of the more stressful parts of life, but don’t show it. Smile and have a firm (but not crushing) handshake.

5. Be respectful to everyone in the company. Everyone there is who you’re interviewing with.

6. Give complete answers but don’t be long winded. A good system to keep your answers at a good pace is the STAR system (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Explain the situation and the task (your role), describe the actions you took, and finish with the results.

7. Prepare questions to ask interviewers. It can be simple questions like why they like working for the company, but asking questions shows that you are genuinely interested. Wait until the second interview to ask about salary and benefits.

8. Send a thank you within 24 hours of the interview. This is common courtesy and should be done for every interview but it will emphasize your interest in the position.