Five Tips for Interviewing

As hard as it is to believe, spring semester is just around the corner.  With each new semester comes a new recruiting program organized by the Office of Professional Development.  One of the most beneficial aspects of the semester recruiting programs is on-campus interviewing, or OCI.  OCI is an opportunity for employers to visit the law school, interview students, and select candidates for available positions.  A wide range of employers participate in OCI, including, but not limited to:  large firms, small firms, government agencies, and corporations.  Here is a short list of tips to help students prepare for the spring semester recruiting program.

1. Have Someone Proofread Your Resume

A solid resume is the first step to landing an interview.  You do not want to have any errors hiding in places you may have overlooked.  Having a fresh set of eyes check it out is always a good idea.  Students can email their resumes to the Office of Professional Development and the Director of Professional Development, Shawn Beem, will gladly review it.  I worked with the Office of Professional Development my first year and changed the entire format of my resume.  After working with Director Beem, I now have an organized and well-developed resume to send to potential employers.

2. Make Your Cover Letter Unique

Employers can tell when you send them a generic cover letter.  Instead, do some research, and include specific reasons why you are drawn to the particular position for which you are applying.  This will give you a competitive edge and make your application stand out from the rest.  Also, end your cover letter on a strong note.  Avoid passive language such as, "I look forward to hearing back from you in the near future," and replace it with, "I will contact you within the week to follow up on my application.  Meanwhile, please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or requests.  Thank you for your time and your consideration.”

3. Practice for Your Interview

No matter how comfortable you are with your speaking ability, it is always important to practice.  Research commonly asked questions, write out possible answers, and then practice your responses.  Do not be afraid to practice in front of a mirror.  Sure, it may be awkward, but practicing in front of a mirror can help you improve eye contact, posture, and gesturing.  Students can also schedule a mock interview with the Office of Professional Development.  Mock interviews are recorded.  This provides students the ability to re-watch the interview, and identify their strengths and weaknesses.

4. Dress the Part

Students need to look their best when entering an interview.  If you have not yet built up your professional wardrobe, it is time to do so.  A professional image is key to a professional reputation.  Not wearing a suit, donning colors that clash, or showing too much skin can easily harm your chances for getting a job.  On November 14, the Office of Professional Development, Women's Law Association, and Phi Alpha Delta are presenting "Dress for Success."  This event will highlight what to wear (and when), how to infuse your style, how to build a professional wardrobe, and where and how to shop.  I attended this event last year, and not only is it informative, but it is also highly entertaining.

5. Be Confident

Confidence is essential.  During an interview, all of the attention is on you.  You are the star; so make yourself feel like one.  Recognize your strengths, and have confidence in your experience.  When you enter the interview room, stand tall, smile, make eye contact, and use a firm handshake.  Keep in mind that it is important to distinguish confidence from cockiness.  The moment you enter the realm of cockiness, you begin to look arrogant and unprofessional.  For example, be proud of your accomplishments, but do not brag about them.  Never act like you are better than the job for which you are interviewing.  Projecting an attitude of confidence will command attention and respect.