INTERVIEWS\nThe key to having a successful interview is to be yourself said Sharon Chertkoff, director of outreach programs and services at the Student Academic Center. Although this may sound terribly cliché, it's crucial to remember to show the "real you," she said. Ask yourself what makes you better and more qualified for the job than the next person. \n"Be able to transmit through conversation the qualities that really make you stand out as an individual," Chertkoff said. \nFor the interview itself, dress appropriately, she said. Consider the location, demands and surroundings, and dress accordingly.\n"When greeting your future employer, shake their hand, look them in the eye and say, 'Hi, so and so. I'm blank. It's so nice to meet you,'" Chertkoff said.\nShe said knowing them by name is important. Do your research before the interview -- find out with whom you are dealing.\nHandshakes may seem trivial, but Chertkoff said a lot can be said through a handshake. There should be a natural flow to a handshake, she said. Once up and down is ample.\n"(It should feel) firm, not wimpy," Chertkoff said. "You shouldn't keep pumping the other person's hand." \nWhile some people feel a bit intimidated to ask questions at first, others can overdo it.\nChertkoff recommends moderation. She notes it is appropriate to ask questions. In fact, she believes it is smart to prepare a list of questions before the interview. For example, research the firm, people, etc. What does the employer do? \n"Don't be shy to ask about perks either," Chertkoff said. \nBut just because information isn't posted on a Web site or written in a pamphlet doesn't mean it's off-limits.\nWhen preparing to present yourself professionally, make sure to take your appearance into consideration.\nWhen asked about her opinion on piercings and tattoos, Cherkoff repeated her previous advice, by stating everything should be done in moderation. \nFor example, she asked, "Would you go to a wedding in jeans and a bikini top? Hopefully your answer is 'no.' Similarly, you wouldn't go to an interview with a big, flashy gauge coming out of your ears, nose or whatever else you happened to have visibly pierced."\nAlthough these things may not seem important, Chertkoff said, if your employer takes any pride in his or her company, he or she will most likely want to keep a wholesome, clean reputation. If you come strutting in with 50 visible tattoos and piercings, what is that going to say about the company?
INTERNSHIPS\nJeremy Padony, the assistant director and an instructor at the Career Development Center, is currently teaching a class called "Job Search Strategies for the Liberal Arts Student."\nAs a college student, Padony said the best way to make yourself marketable is to acquire the ability to network, which means spending face-time with people. \nYou can't just sit back and hope jobs will come to you; the best thing you can do for yourself is stay active and involved in your search, Padony said. He suggests to keep an updated resume, take advantage of internships and get your face out there and noticed. Internships are also crucial in finding a job after graduation.\nWhere internships were once considered a "bonus," they are now becoming a "must." The career world is a competitive one, and employers are looking for people not only with an education, but also with hands-on experience, as well.\nAccording to a recent study by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, 75 to 80 percent of all college students have had at least one internship before they begin their career in the "real world." \nInternships aren't only offered in the summer, said Padony, this is a common misconception. It can be more convenient for a student to take an internship for credit or to do an internship instead of a part-time job.\nWhen distinguishing a good internship from a bad one, Padony said it is tough to do, but very important.\nHe recommends asking a lot of questions during your search. You should know how long the internship position has existed and what responsibilities come with it. Also, there also should be a definite difference between an internship and a part-time job, he said. An internship should be more hands-on and geared toward a professional job. If you intern at a firm, you should be meeting the clients and attending meetings -- not just filing papers.\nWhen attempting to get a job, successfully, Padony believes 50 percent is preparing, and 50 percent comes down to commitment. \n"If your heart is really into it," Padony said, "then it will show in the job-search process." \n-- Contact staff writer Mandy Wilczynski at mwilczyn@indiana.edu.
