Interview and Networking Tips

• Anticipate what could happen
• Dress for the job you want
• Ask for clarification and come prepared with questions to ask the interviewer
• Listen, listen, listen
• Passion for your field is irrelevant…we would hope you have this already!
• What do you know about us?
• Use specific examples and experiences

Use the STAR Method. This is a structured manner of responding to a behavioral-based interview question by discussing the specific situation, task, action, and result of the situation you are describing.

• Situation:
  Describe the situation you were in or the task you need to accomplish. You must describe a specific event or situation instead of a generalized description of what you have done in the past. Be sure to give enough detail for the interviewer to understand. This situation can be from a previous job, from a volunteer experience, or any relevant event.
  Every year, our club sponsors a charity. Last year we decided to sponsor Wolfson Children’s hospital.
• Task:
  What goal were you working toward?
  Our team wanted to collect toys to distribute for the hospitalized kids last Christmas. I was voted by my teammates to lead the project because of my leadership, organization, and attention to detail.
• Action:
  Describe the detailed actions YOU took to address the situation. What specific steps did you take and what was your particular contribution? Use the word “I,” not “we” when describing actions.
  I ensured success by creating a plan for my club members to visit local toy stores and ask for donations. I also designed flyers for them to distribute around campus, in local stores, and nearby churches.
• Result:
  Describe the outcome of your actions and don’t be shy about taking credit for your behavior. What happened? How did the event end? What did you accomplish? What did you learn?
  Our group collected and donated over 500 toys to children at the hospital. Our shared accomplishment resulted in a close-knit team and benefited the community.

• How would you describe the responsibilities of the position?
• How would you describe a typical week/day in this position?
• Is this a new position? If not, what did the previous employee go on to do?
• What is the company's management style?
• Who does this position report to? If I am offered the position, can I meet them?
• How many people work in this office/department?
• How much travel is expected?
• Is relocation a possibility?
• What is the typical work week? Is overtime expected?
• What are the prospects for growth and advancement?
• How does one advance in the company? Examples?
• What do you like about working here?
• What don't you like about working here and what would you change?
• Would you like a list of references?
• If I am extended a job offer, how soon would you like me to start?
• What can I tell you about my qualifications?
• When can I expect to hear from you?
• Are there any other questions I can answer for you?

• What does this company do? (Do your research ahead of time!)
• If I get the job when can I take time off for vacation? (Wait until you get the offer to mention prior commitments)
• Can I change my schedule if I get the job? (If you need to figure out the logistics of getting to work don't mention it now...)
• Did I get the job? (Don't be impatient. They'll let you know.)

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 70% of all jobs are found through networking. So what is networking? Networking is building and nurturing professional connections and relationships. It is taking the time to get to know people in areas of interest to you and making sure you keep in touch with them, you’ll never know when these contacts can help you later in your career.

Craft an Elevator Speech: Practice introducing yourself and your interests in no more than 30 seconds

1. Hello, my name is ________ and I have a ________degree in ________ from Flagler College with a minor in ________.
2. I am interested in a career in (or a position as a) ________ in the ________ industry.
3. I have been involved in ________.
4. And developed skills in ________. I also had an internship position (or employment) as a ________ with ________ and discovered that I really enjoy ________.
5. Could you tell me more about ________?

Handshake: Your handshake should be firm and last about 3 seconds.

Eye Contact: Keep eye contact while shaking hands and throughout the conversation.

Smile: You will look confident and approachable.

Start small: Practice networking with people you already know.

Set a goal: Meet five new people, not everyone.

Listen: Ask people about their experiences and opinions, then listen with sincere interest.

Say, thank you: Follow up with a thank you email to your new connections.

Stay in touch: Keep up with your connections; you never know when they will be able to help you.

There are several opportunities to network with professionals during the year. Check out our calendar of events and practice your networking skills!

Career Expos are your chance to gain valuable contacts for future opportunities. You should prepare for the event in several ways:

1. Research employers attending
2. Dress appropriately
3. Have several copies of your resumé ready
4. Prepare and practice your elevator speech