Students learn interview prep strategy
by Lisa Evans, Reporter

   Researching a company before interviewing is a good idea to get a strong sense of what will be expected-from how to answer tough questions to how to dress, South Campus students learned last week.
   Monica Carrasco-Bettle, career center coordinator on South Campus, led a seminar last Thursday on how to prepare for and tackle an interview.
   "Before your interview, it is a good idea to call the interviewer's secretary and ask what their boss is like and what you should wear," she said.
   Having a solid background on the company is a good way to begin to prepare for an interview, Bettle said. One should determine what the requirements are for the job. That preparation can be accomplished by calling the human resources department of the company and asking for a job description. Then, Bettle advised, the job seeker should organize herself prior to the interview, have questions prepared and know the name and title of the interviewer.
   "Greet the interviewer with your name, a warm smile, direct eye contact and a firm handshake," she said.
   At all times during the interview, one should listen carefully and not interrupt, Bettle said. The job seeker should always have a calm and poised attitude.
   Bettle offered answers for common questions that often arise.
   One can talk about experiences but should stay away from childhood and hobbies if the interviewer asks "Tell me about yourself?"
   If asked many other companies have been approached, Bettle said to be honest, telling the interviewer several have been approached for backup, but the interviewer's company is the preferred employment opportunity.
   When asked to give an example of a conflict with a co-worker and its resolution, one should not exaggerate. One can say he went through the company's protocol and approached the co-worker first.
   Bettle told her audience to watch for signs that interview is ending and tactfully ask when the company will make a decision for the position. After the interview, one should send a thank you note highlighting her strong qualifications and thanking the company for its consideration.
   "Put off salary discussions until they offer you the job," she said.
   If the question arises about salary, knowing the company would help. One can call ahead to the human resources office and ask what the salary is for that position, Bettle said.
   Bettle said dressing for an interview is simple but should to be done carefully. For men, dark suits, solid pattern ties, black shoes and matching socks are important. They should be clean-shaven and have fresh haircuts for the interview.
   Women have a few more guidelines, Bettle said. The interview colors for women are black, brown and charcoal gray. They should wear a two-piece skirt suit or nice pantsuit, but the skirt should be below the knee without splits. Closed-toed shoes with pantyhose are another dress requirement, according to Bettle.
   "I suggest that you bring an extra pair of pantyhose. You never know what will happen to your hose from when you put them on and when you get there," she laughed.
   Bettle also recommended a neat hairstyle that keeps the hair out of the face and no large earrings. Natural tones for makeup and a light perfume make a more professional statement.
   The career center has examples of resumes, templates for common questions and anything else one needs when preparing for and engaging in an interview.
   For more information, students can contact the career center on any campus.