Interviewing for a job is one of the most nerve-racking things a person experiences.

Questions float around in your head:

What should I do to prepare for the interview?

What should I wear?

How can I be calm during the questioning;?

What do I do after everything’s over?

When preparing for the interview, the biggest thing that you could do to increase your chances of having a solid interview is to do some research.

“In preparing, it’s very important to have researched the industry, the company and the job,” said Kathy Day, Director of Career Services. “We have some information on the job on the Career Connections web site. We have more detailed information in our office. We strongly encourage students to read through the job descriptions. Also, go to the company’s web site.”

After every school year, the Career Services Center conducts a poll among companies that interview SLU students.

“The big criticism we heard from employers was that students were not prepared enough for the interviews, in terms of knowledge of the company and knowledge of the job,” Day said. “Students need to do more homework about companies.”

Also, Career Services Center offers mock interviews with a counselor.

The Center suggests the following:

In addition, students should try to talk to people in the field of work for which they are applying. Making a few copies of your resume is also recommended, as more than one person may be conducting the interview.

Dressed conservatively for interviews. Hair should be neat and clean. Jewelry should be kept to a minimum. Skirts should not be too short, and blouses or shirts should be in conservative colors. Shoes ought to be clean and polished. Purses, portfolios and briefcases shouldn’t be worn out.

Arrive early for the interview so that you can relax a little. Introduce yourself with a firm handshake and a smile. Keep eye contact with the interviewer.

Take your time to answer the questions; don’t rush an answer. Don’t slump in your chair. Indicate to the interviewer that you are confident.

Conclude the interview with a firm handshake and thank the interviewer for his/her time.

Ask the interviewer with whom you should get in touch with if you have any questions after the interview.

Find out when the company will call you for a second interview or job offer.

Finally, send a follow-up letter or e-mail to the interviewer. And keep track of all the interviews you’ve had.

If you have any questions, feel free to drop by the Career Services Center in DuBourg Hall, Room 150, or call at 977-2831. The Center’s web site is careers.slu.edu.