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I recently had the opportunity to speak with Olivia La Caprara, a student advisor at the UofA Career Center, and learn about on-campus resources that help students prepare for interviews. Here are some insights from our conversation.
What on-campus resources are available for students to use to prepare for job interviews?
Olivia: Students can take several different steps when preparing for an interview. In my opinion, the first thing to do is book a mock interview at Career Her Center and get personalized support from your peers. This allows students to practice speaking in an interview setting using questions targeted at the specific job they are applying for. Next, I always encourage students to reflect on their experiences, whether paid or unpaid, and write down the skills they learned and the challenges they overcame in these positions. to new potential employers so that they emphasize their transferable technical skills. Finally, students should research the organization, learn about its mission and values, and be able to connect with the company as a whole. Even if students are unable to book an appointment with an advisor, they are still welcome to come to the HUB or SUB office and chat with the front desk for interview-related assistance. You can also find very useful information in the Interviews section of our website under the Career Resources tab.
How can students make Career Center appointments?
Olivia: To make an appointment with us, students can call (780) 492-4291 or come directly to the 2nd floor of HUB (8917A HUB Mall) or SUB (2-100 SUB). Students are not allowed to book online in order to ensure that the appropriate booking type and advisors are selected based on client needs. Prior to booking, please email your resume and job posting of interest so that our advisors can properly prepare your mock interview questions and address any other questions you deem appropriate.
Do you have any advice for students about to get a job interview?
Olivia: If you are attending a job interview in person, be sure to dress professionally. In other words, dress as if you were going to work for the company. Make sure you arrive clean, comfortable and well rested. In addition, have a printed resume and cover letter ready, as well as the referrer’s contact information. When you arrive at the interview location, be polite and kind to everyone you meet. For example, you might check in at reception first, or you might run into another employee on your way to lunch. Everyone greets you with a smile. When you meet the interviewer or interview team, act as if you were meeting a new friend. Whether or not you are eventually offered a job, you are establishing critical network connections. Introduce yourself, ask about their day, and convey your enthusiasm for being there. Keep your body relaxed and maintain intermittent eye contact with the interviewer when answering interview questions, but don’t rush your answers if you need time to think. Ultimately, be open-minded, confident, and positive.
What do you think are the key points to remember in an interview?
Olivia: Employers are looking for people who can integrate their skills into their teams. Do you get along well with new people? Can you effectively collaborate and manage conflicts? That’s why it’s so important to highlight your strengths in this area. Additionally, when a new employee is hired, there is a training process that must be learned from her members of the existing team within the organization. what is your learning style? Are you self-regulating? When do you ask for help? are you a good listener All these questions should be kept in mind during the interview.
Do you have a personal story about your dream job interview?
Olivia: My recent interview for a summer job with the City of Edmonton is very impressive to me.The interviewers were great and I felt very comfortable talking to them. Part of the interview was a short presentation, but I was also surprised to be asked to improvise her second presentation based on some prompts. I was nervous, but I was able to finish it happily. Looking back, I remember a lot of laughter and quick personal anecdotes that myself and the interviewer really helped us connect, and overall it was a great experience.
Olivia, thank you for sharing these insights and the great resources U of A has for students to help them better prepare for job interviews.
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