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Graduates need to prepare for job hunt

ggangi@dailyegyptian.com

Doug Carlson wishes he could do it all over again three times.

"After each one, I just replay it in my head; I just never seem to get it right," said Carlson, a senior in health care management who is hunting for a job after he graduates. "It's like I know exactly what I am supposed to do when I get there, but once you're in there, it's so nerve-racking."

Carlson said he has been on three job interviews this year and is preparing for another next week. He said he finds the interview to be the most difficult part of the job-hunting process. Carlson is part pf the SIUC graduating class of 2004 and one of many who are still searching for post-graduation employment.

"It's a little scary to think that I won't have a job after I graduate," Carlson said. "It's what I've been waiting for."

Students who feel career anxiety can visit the SIUC Career Counseling Center. At the center, students can receive help with cover letters, resumes and interviews. Juanita Gray, a career counselor for the Career Counseling Center, said students often come to the center for specific help and that most already know what to expect during interviews.

"It's like an audition" said Gray, a graduate student in education psychology. "You're simply selling yourself. Know your strengths and weaknesses."

Gray said the biggest mistake people make during an interview is showing a lack of confidence. She said researching the interviewing company's background can help encourage self-assurance.

"Know the organization your interviewing with" Gray said. "Know the name of the person interviewing you and the position you're applying for. Employers like to hear that you've done the research on their company. Let them know what you can offer them. A lot of employers will ask specific questions pertaining to their company or the position. Knowing background information will help you."

Steven Niznik is a business professional who freelances career advice for about.com. He also advocates research prior to the interview as well as preparing for interview questions ahead of time.

"Keep in mind that it's a two-way street. Make sure it's a company for which you want to work, and you'll be well-prepared to answer such questions," Niznik said. "Find out everything you can, including its benefits, history, culture, advancement opportunities, financial status and plans."

Niznik suggests interviewees know their own information and be ready for open personal goal-oriented questions.

"You still have to market yourself," Niznik said. "That includes stuff like making your résumé stand out and responding to dreaded inquiries for which there are no perfect responses, such as, 'Tell me about yourself.'"

Both Niznik and Gray suggest dressing professionally, even if the actual position will not require it. Gray said dressing comfortably would help interviewees feel more confident. Niznik said most interviewees do not need to become nervous or anxious because not all interviewers are prepared.

"It's obvious that many don't even prepare in advance, probably because they don't have time or just don't think of it," Niznik said. "This makes it easier for you to take control of the interview. Typically, the unprepared will ask questions centering around your résumé because it's all they have to go on. They'll stare at your résumé for a few seconds, ask a question, stare at your résumé some more and ask another question. Memorize your résumé, goals and accomplishments well."

Gray said she has seen a trend of soon-to-be college graduates seeking career counseling, many of whom have never been to a professional interview.

"It is important people begin to work on mock interviews and resumes early, even sophomore year," said Gray. "Your resume and knowing interviewing tips are not something you want to wait until the end of your academic career to learn."