Interview DOs:

• DO take out your pad of paper and pen so you can take notes.

• DO be friendly. Give a firm handshake, make eye contact, smile and speak up. Try breaking the ice by engaging in small talk. For example, comment on the nice surroundings or a book you notice on the hiring manager’s shelf.

• DO tell yourself you deserve the job. (That doesn’t mean they owe it to you. You must convince them.)

• DO use the interview to describe your strengths and how they align with the requirements of the position.

• DO be prepared to talk about your professional goals.

• DO be enthusiastic, courteous and alert throughout the entire interview.

• DO sit calmly. If you tend to gesture a lot when you talk, try clasping your hands in your lap.

• DO ask for a business card so that you can send him or her a short and prompt thank-you note.

Interview DON’Ts :

• DON’T bring a friend or child along.

• DON’T be insincere. Fake flattery shows.

• DON’T wear flashy jewelry (keep it simple and small) or a facial piercing.

• DON’T speak negatively about former employers or colleagues. Focus on the positive aspects of your work history.

• DON’T start with questions about your salary or time off. These questions are only appropriate if you have been offered the position or the interviewer expresses serious interest in hiring you.

• DON’T be afraid to express your interest in the position. It’s okay to say, “I want this job. I know I could make a real contribution to the company.”

• DON’T slump, yawn or chew your nails or gum during the interview.

• DON’T panic if you make a mistake, trip over your words or even knock something over. Show how cool you are under pressure.

1. Tell me about yourself.

2. Describe your current (or most recent) position.

3. Why are you looking for a new opportunity now?

4. What are your strengths?

5. What is your greatest weakness?

6. Can you tell me about a time when you overcame a challenge?

7. Why do you want to work here?

8. Where do you see yourself in five years?

9. Why should we hire you?

10. Do you have any questions for me?

Job Fairs are a great way for you to explore potential employment opportunities and learn more about companies who are actively hiring in your neighborhood. There are a few important things to keep in mind before, during, and after the job fair to make it successful for you:

Before the Job Fair:

• Find out what businesses will be there.

• Narrow down your list of businesses to include those who have positions you are interested in and prepare questions you would like to ask them.

• Prepare a “two minute commercial” or “elevator speech.” Think about your strong points, your goals and where you want to go within the corporate structure.

• Bring copies of your resume to hand out to the companies.

• Take a portfolio or briefcase to hold corporate literature you will receive.

At the Job Fair:

• Dress Professionally. Job fairs are interviews, so make sure your attire is appropriate as first impressions are important.

• Target specific companies that you are interested in. When you check in, find out where these booths are located and try to visit them first.

• Network with others while waiting in line, as you may hear about other job opportunities that you were unaware of.

• Shake hands and introduce yourself to company recruiters when you reach the table.

• Take time to talk to recruiters. Know something about the company and act very interested in the opportunities they have.

• Keep an open mind and explore all options.

• Always ask for a business card from the company recruiter.

We all have a large circle of personal contacts. Networking is a natural process in which we all engage on a regular basis. Networking is about building relationships and everyone networks without even thinking about it. It is one of the most important career management skills you can develop.

What are the benefits of networking?

• Uncovers information and opportunities you would never discover in any other way

• Enhances your credibility and visibility

• Puts you in less competitive and potentially more productive circumstances

What are you actually doing when you are networking?

You are asking for:

• Information – about organizations and recruiters in your field of work that you could contact

• Introductions and referrals – names of people who are able to offer more information, help you set up networking meetings or make decisions about employing people

• Feedback – on your skills and achievements and you resume, given your target market

• Support, encouragement or advice – guidance on your job-search strategy and identifying and evaluating opportunities