Jeffrey: Words on a Wednesday – Your Interview (Graduate Special)

Graduation has been done and dusted and now many graduates are facing the “job-search”.

As a recent graduate I want to tell other graduates: Do not let the unemployment rate put you down…

Most importantly, don’t let it influence how you act in your next interview.

Always remember that there are so many possibilities available for you to develop your career whether it is in your specific field of study or within something similar.

Here are a few of my personal tips on how you can make a successful interview as a graduate:

• Reassess yourself

I don’t mean staring at yourself in front of the mirror singing the Disney song “Reflections” from Mulan. Unless you want to…?

Remember that it is down to you to make the right impression.

Develop confidence: Reread your curriculum vitae aloud – This not only helps you strengthen your verbal skills but allows you to practice a significant topic (which will definitely be in your interview)

“What professional work have you done:  before, during and after university?”

Concentrate on the tone of your voice and volume and remember eye contact.

• Edit Your Facebook Profile

Even though Facebook was created for personal contacts such as friends and family, you never know who would be curious in finding out more about you.

There is the chance that potential employers will give your Facebook a quick browse before a job interview.  You wouldn’t want your first impressions (even before your interview) to be tainted by your main profile picture which presents you - passed out on the train carriage floor with a bottle of Lambrini.

Add your professional website and blog to your profile information. It’s always great to have your professional website and blog linked to your social media platforms.  Remember to keep your links on “Public – Everyone can see”. (Making it accessible can lead you more opportunities)

• Make a Website (or Blog) 

I know many graduates who have developed a website which showcases their previous work: including project briefs, photographs, exhibition details and even videos.

Remember to take professional and high quality photographs of previous work with details such as size, description and date. Think of it as a permanent online exhibition… which can be viewed by everyone and anyone.

I know that many individuals would not need a website, but I do recommend you starting a blog - even if it’s talking about specific news, your current projects and even reviews of products you use in your day routine.

What employers look for are candidates who have a passion, interest and a strong connection to their field of study. Even if the job doesn’t necessarily match up to what your blog is about, it proves dedication and motivation. Two things which play a very important role.

Remember your website does not have to be a stylish and sleek with flying text and intense background music that shouts your name.

Promote and communicate with ease.

Everything on your site should be easily accessible.

If you can, add your curriculum vitae to your site. But if you are weary about the idea, add a “Request a CV”  feature AND your email address.

This will be continued next week. 

“As a Gem, I wish you the best in your Search” - Gemini Search

Check out Gemini Search: http://www.gemini-search.co.uk/

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