The interview is what will convince an employer that you are the best candidate for a position. It allows you face-to-face to demonstrate how your past experience (education, work, activities) fits the qualifications of the position and to show that you have an understanding of the position and organization and how you will fit in. It should also represent your self-confidence and enthusiasm. Just like a test or any other important event in life, you must be prepared:

• Know yourself. Be ready to identify your abilities, accomplishments, strengths, weaknesses, goals, and priorities. Know examples on how to demonstrate each.

• Research the organization, the product lines, and competitors. The Office of Career Services has lots of reference material and online resources.

• Practice interviewing with friends or by taking advantage of Career Services practice interviews with a career counselor. Click here for some common questions asked by interviewers.

• Prepare questions to ask the interviewers to gather more information about the company and to demonstrate that you have done your research. Click here for some ideas.

• Dress appropriately and conservatively. Click here for some suggestions on what to wear.

• Be positive. This is not the place to knock your school or past employers. An optimist is more useful in an organization than a pessimist. If you are enthusiastic about past experiences, you are likely to be positive about future employers.

• Follow up with a thank you letter. This is a must! You should thank everyone who assisted you with your job search immediately following the interview. It should show that you are courteous, knowledgeable, and professional, and should demonstrate your written communications skills. Be sure to restate your interest in the position and why you want the job, and perhaps include something you forgot to mention during the interview. And don't forget to say thanks!