Interview tips for graduates

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Interviews can be intimidating.

And with the recent slump in the economy, it has become more difficult than ever for graduates to find employment after college.

That is why it is important to set yourself apart from your peers.

Dennis Dunlap, the regional Career Technical Educator Contractor through the Gratiot-Isabella Regional Education Services District, said the most important thing for applicants to do is keep their manners, verbal skills, presentation skills and written skills intact.

“(These) all have to be congruent,” he said. “It has to be the whole package.”

Something many applicants need to think about, Dunlap said, is to match one’s objectives with the company.

“Your resume has to be absolutely flawless,” he said. “Attention to detail is critical in today’s business world.”

Zach Ribble, 23, a recent CMU graduate from Midland, currently works as an account manager at the Healthcare Services Group in Grand Rapids. Ribble said networking found him a job.

“I got (my job) through networking and knowing the right people,” he said. “I knew a girl (and) we both had classes together. When I moved to Grand Rapids, I asked her (about employment openings).”

Ribble said networking is key because not all companies post openings.

“A lot of jobs are not necessarily posted,” Ribble said. “You have to reach into your network and find (those) jobs.”

Dunlap said up to 40 percent of jobs through companies may not be advertised.

“There is a hidden job market,” he said. “The best tools are your phone and your network.”

Ribble said a great way to make a good first impression during an interview is to identify your strengths.

“Find two traits about yourself or about your experience,” he said. “Use them to detail why you are the best person for the job.”

Doing research on the company will show you are serious and a qualified candidate, he said.

“Know the market trends (of the company,)” Ribble said, “and have a general idea of the industry you are applying for. Know (the company’s) mission statement and values.”

Dunlap said a firm handshake and good manners are always important. If you are in a group interview, he said, make sure to make contact with everyone.

“Shake everyone’s hand,” he said. “We talk about that (after you leave).”

Dunlap said a timely thank you is also incredibly important.

“Regardless (of anything,) you should send a personalized note,” he said.

Ribble agreed.

“Restate your strong interest in the position,” he said, “and send it 24 to 48 hours after the interview.”

Something recent graduates may not think of, Ribble said, is listing a resume through a professional networking site such as LinkedIn.com.

Dunlap said professional networking sites can help, so long as one’s resume is proper.

“(It) goes back to your networking,” he said. “Your network is your best resource.”

The Central Michigan University Career Services office publishes a booklet to prepare students for such questions. The booklet, as well as more information about applying for a job, may be found in their office in the Bovee University Center.

features@cm-life.com