I attended the semesterly career fair for the UF College of Journalism and Communications from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. As a public relations major, I luckily received pre-scheduled interviews with 10 companies ranging from promotional publishing to event coordinating all in one day. I was grateful for the opportunity to even interview with the companies, but at the same time freaking out because I had no clue what to expect.
I was definitely scared after my first interview, but I had a few realizations and was able to learn from each personal experience I had with each interviewer.
After I attended and talked with the 10 interviewers, they helped me realize a few things. I plan to keep this advice in mind going forward. Here are some helpful tips that I realized from talking to several different recruiters and potential employers.
1. Find a common interest.
The interviewer not only wants to know what you did in school, but they also want to know about you. They want to know the person underneath the prim and proper perfect resume and business suit. Get to know them, and find your middle ground so that they can instantly remember you.
2. Follow your passion.
If your heart is not in the position you’re applying for, it will show. The majority of interviewers asked me why I am interested in their company and where I see myself in the future. If you know that the company doesn’t align with your career goals and you are not passionate about it, the interviewer will be able to tell. If you cannot answer those questions truthfully and know full-well that it is not something you see yourself doing, do not apply for it.
3. Showcase your personality.
Do not be afraid to let your personality come out. It will help you be remembered. If they see how enthusiastic you are about what you are talking about, they will instantly be able to know what you're personality will be like with their company culture.
4. It’s okay to say no.
One of the interviewers told me that. If you find that the company’s values do not align with your professional goals and if you have an offer that will benefit you more, it’s okay to say no. Interviewers will understand and they would rather know sooner than later.
5. Do your research.
Interviewers love it when you know about their company's values and what they do. It saves their time and yours since you are already knowledgeable about what you are applying for. Knowing information about the company shows that you are interested and took the time to do your research.
6. Don't focus on your lack of experience.
Interviewers understand that you are not as experienced because you are most likely still in college. Do not fixate on that. Instead, focus on your willingness to learn. Every experience you had up to that interview is an experience which you gained valuable skills from. Do not sell yourself short.
