Tuesday

• Sign up for interview slots• All work due today• So, You Want a Job?• Follow Up Letter

So, You Want a Job?

Preparation

• Arrive 15 minutes early• Research the company• Bring extra copies of resume and reference sheet• Bring an extra pen and pencil• Prepare answers to frequently asked interview

questions• Prepare appropriate questions for the

interviewer

The Approach

• Be enthusiastic and smile• Dress professionally (no extraneous piercings)• Make eye contact with the interviewer

continually• Hold your portfolio in your left hand• Use a firm handshake each time you meet

someone and give your full name• Use courtesy titles and last names• Sit when invited to

The Interview• Relax• Be honest• Use active listening skills• Express your thoughts clearly– If you’re not sure, pause and collect your thoughts

before you answer• Support answers with specific examples• Speak positively about past employers,

companies, and co-workers• Ask questions of your own

8 Cardinal Rules for a Successful Interview

1. Show you are knowledgeable about the company and its operation

2. Present a positive attitude3. Smile4. Shake hands firmly5. Show enthusiasm6. If salary comes up, approach the topic

cautiously. Don’t agree to the first offer7. Never keep the interviewer waiting8. Make the interviewer like you—sell yourself

The Closing

• Another firm handshake• Thanks the interviewer for their time and

consideration• Ask for a business card• Send a follow-up thank you note or email

immediately• Make a follow-up phone call three to five days

after the interview

Follow Up to Interview

Purpose

• To show interest in employment and appreciation for interviews time

• To help you get the job• To sell yourself one more time without

looking desperate

Formats

• Phone call• E-mail• Letter• Card– One or two, not all– Don’t look desperate!

Phone Call

• Call during regular management hours• Know when your manager is working, or call back

when she or he is• Introduce yourself• Thank for interview and time• Inquire about time line of application process• “Look forward to hearing from you”• About one week after the interview

E-mail

• Formal Speak; be professional!• Introduce self, remind day of interview• Thank them for the opportunity• Inquire about timeline for final decision• End with positive statement• A couple of days after the interview

Letter/Card

• Typed on letterhead (like resume)• Or a handwritten card– Consider your handwriting—is it legible?

• Same as e-mail• Be professional!• Should be mailed out day of or day after

interview

Sample Card

Dear _______: Thank you very much for the interview today. In reviewing the opportunity with [name of company], I am most eager to start. In closing, let me say that no matter how many people you interview, what their education or experience is, you won't find anyone who wants to work for you more than I do.

Sincerely, [your name]

Asssignment

• Type a thank you letter, or write a thank you card

• Due date: Day after interview