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Career Development Center
110 Netzer Administration Building
(607) 436-2534
career@oneonta.edu

Office Hours:
Monday - Friday, 8am - 4:00pm

Before the Interview
PREPARING FOR THE INTERVIEW:

Information Preparation - Have you done your homework?
  • Research the organization by reading the Annual Report and any other printed information about the organization, or by arranging an information interview with a person who works in a similar position at another organization. You can also find a lot of company information on the internet.
     
  • Develop a clear, concise resume and be prepared to elaborate on what it says.
     
  • Know what you want to do and be able to explain how it fits in with the organization's goals.
     
  • Review sample interview questions and develop ideas of how you will answer them. Ask a friend to role-play with you. Practice answering the questions out loud and pay special attention to any that seem difficult or uncomfortable for you.
     

  • Have questions prepared to ask the interviewer. Most interviewers expect you to ask questions about the organization, the specific job, etc. Remember, this is a time for you to "interview the organization," as well as for the organization to interview you.
     

Psychological Preparation – Put yourself in the right frame of mind. You need to feel self-confident, and believe you are the best person for the job.

Physical Preparation – Dress neatly and conservatively, and avoid fads. Attire will depend on the job you are seeking it is always safest to dress conservatively. Make sure your clothes are clean and well pressed. Neatness and cleanliness count.

  • Buy at least one set of CONSERVATIVE CLOTHES. It cannot hurt you to be overdressed, but being underdressed (or miss-matched) can be a killer. Also, be certain that your shoes are in good repair and recently polished.
     
  • If you need a haircut, get one. Be well groomed and neat. Care enough to check in a mirror before you walk into the interviewer's office.
     

Be early and bring something to read in case the interviewer is late. If there is company literature in the waiting area, read it. This is a good chance to pick-up on some information that is current. If the interviewer runs late, he/she will feel less guilty if you appear to be entertaining yourself.

Whatever you do, DO NOT ARRIVE LATE FOR YOUR INTERVIEW!

For more information about the above or any of the programs and services offered through the Career Development Center, contact the Center in 110 Netzer, phone: (607) 436-2534, e-mail: career@oneonta.edu.
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SUNY College at Oneonta - Ravine Parkway - Oneonta, NY 13820 - 607.436.3500
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