Unless you have a degree in a particularly high-demand field, recent grads have quite a challenge ahead of them in finding a job, and even more so in finding a job they love. PR grads are no exception so that’s why it’s important to be as prepared as possible in order to avoid some of the common blunders that can sidetrack your success.
Here are 8 things to consider before you head to your interview.
- Have examples. If you put on your resume that you’re a team player or that you had an important role at your last internship make sure you have solid examples to back it up. Otherwise it just looks like resume padding and will leave you floundering to come up with something in your interview.
- Look the part. This should go without saying, but always dress up to go to an interview. Even if the business is pretty casual it doesn’t hurt to dress up, look nice and give the appearance of the utmost professionalism.
- Stay up-to-date. While you should be pretty well set coming right out of college, make sure that you’re staying up to date with industry trends so you’ll know the details if your interviewer were to ask you a question about it.
- Research the company. It is always wise to spend some time researching a company before heading out to an interview with them. That way you’ll know more of what they’re looking for and can highlight things about yourself that can be a good match.
- Show your enthusiasm. No one wants to hire someone that doesn’t seem excited about the job or who seems like they feel it’s just a job and not a passion. If you want to work there, don’t be afraid to show it.
- Know the industry. It isn’t enough just to have a degree in a PR related field. You need to spend time reading blogs, magazines and news to help you keep up with what’s going on. That way you will be ready for anything they throw at you in an interview.
- Choose the right interviews. While in a down market it can be hard to turn down interviews that come your way, there is no sense in taking one from a company you know that you do not want to work for or in a specialization that you hate.
- Be prepared. There is no better way to wow interviewers than to be prepared. Have a copy of your resume, anticipate questions they may ask and know what you’re talking about.
This guest post was authored by Rose Jensen, who writes about online college courses. She welcomes your feedback at Rose.Jensen28@ yahoo.com.
These are all great tips. I’ll also add that it’s important for candidates to ask questions during the interview. There’s nothing worse than when a candidate replies “No, I think you covered it all” when I ask if they have any questions. It’s a great way to show enthusiasm and your sincere interest in the position, per your fifth point.
Great tips. Even though they seem pretty obvious, it always amazes me how often some candidates don’t follow those simple rules.
As a former journalist making the switch to public relations, I have had the opportunity for several informational interviews and find it helpful to always practice (or role play, if you will) before the interview. Helps with the preparation and helps prevent awkward answers to the usual interview questions (like, what are your weaknesses?).
Thanks for the advice!
Pete Cataldo
twitter.com/petecataldo