Let's
talk about everyone's favorite topic - interviews! Ok, probably not your favorite
thing to do, but everyone experiences some form of an interview. For college and
career women, interviewing for a job is a popular one.
It can be a
nerve-racking experience but it doesn't have to be. As an HR pro/recruiter,
I'll tell you a secret- an interview is simply a conversation. You and the
recruiter agree on a time and setup a meeting, similar to your other meetings.
You come prepared to discuss your qualifications and why you're good for the
job. For the most part, the recruiter enters the meeting with the intention of
finding the right candidate for the job.
What happens when
you're in the interview together? You TALK! You're having a mature, professional
conversation. To rock this interview, remember to bring the most important
piece- your confidence. You're reading this blog so I know you're smart,
organized and focused. Your experience is robust and compatible to the
position. I know you'll have your resume memorized like your favorite Beyoncé
song, so when you answer the questions, really go for it! Tell the interviewer
about your accomplishments and experiences with pride and integrity.
You can also show your
unique experience. 2nd thing to remember is a hard copy of your resume and a
professional portfolio. Yes, you sent your resume via email. The recruiter can
print it out and probably will print it out. However, bringing your resume is
classic professionalism and it's a kind gesture. Your professional portfolio
can be emailed or brought in, if appropriate. For example, my 9-5 job is in HR.
When applying to a different job, I will send a recruiter a link to
CMB's website because it highlights experience not included on my resume. Graphic
designers may bring in a portfolio to share. Interviews are not the time to
hold back and be shy about your experience, especially as a recent grad. Did
you complete a branding strategy for a small business during your capstone
project in school? Did you write a policy brief in your political science
course? Before an interview, think of the requirements and responsibilities for the position and
make a list of all your experiences that would be helpful to mention. Then,
practice answering some questions you’re sure to get.
Check out the episode of “Krystal & Courtney’s Career Chat” that covers interviews. We include sample
questions and how to answer them.
You have to look super
cute for your interview! 3rd thing to bring is an amazing outfit! When you look
good, you feel good. When I'm feeling my outfit, you can't tell me nothing! My
confidence is at an all-time high. Next time you have an interview, put on your
favorite professionally-chic outfit or buy a new one. If money is funny, no
problem. Call your best friend, and borrow something from her. When you get to
her house, discuss a hairstyle that will be on point, for the occasion. You can
also practice a couple interview questions with her.
We want to do a
webinar about interviews! Would you be interested? What difficult interview
questions would you like me to cover?! Let me know in the comments!
For more information
about career development, networking and work fashion, go to our website at www.thecolormeb.com and join our mailinglist!
