Career Center

What to Say

• Introduce yourself with a smile and firm handshake. Maintain good eye contact during conversation.
• Demonstrate to the recruiter what you want to and can do for the employer today, based on employer research. Give two minute commercial.
• Answer questions with:
  • "Yes, for example (accomplishment/result statement)" and
  • "No, however (accomplishment/result statement)"
• Show interest in what the interviewer is saying, by nodding your head and leaning toward him/her occasionally.
• Give positive answers to negative-based questions.
• Ask the recruiter prepared questions.
• Initiate the next step by asking what the next step is.
• Ask for the recruiter's business card for future contact. Immediately after you leave make notes of important points of discussion.

What to Do

• Arrive 10-15 minutes early.
• Use time wisely to review employer research information.
• Have pen and paper. Asking to borrow a pen indicates lack of preparation.
• Be enthusiastic. Recruiters remember a positive attitude.
• Listen carefully to the interviewer's complete question before responding.
• If needed, pause and take time before answering difficult questions.
• Keep going even if you feel you made a mistake.
• Carry extra resumes, references, etc. organized in a portfolio.
• Unless asked, do not discuss salary and benefits.

After the Interview

• Send a thank you letter to the recruiter.
• Address it to the recruiter, by name and title.
• Demonstrate employer knowledge in 2-3 sentences.
• Restate employment objective.
• Answer the question – "What can you do for them?" – based on something specifically discussed during your contact. Use accomplishment or results statements that demonstrate your ability to meet those needs.