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| MICA grads, classes of '96 and '06. They crashed the 2012 graduation. |
Interviews are a fact of life in job hunting. If you want to make a good impression, learn and execute the following:
Be Prepared – Don’t walk into an interview without researching the company and job. You should know what the company does, recent or notable press, and basic information about its history. Not knowing the basics is an immediate turn-off for interviewers.
Dress well – The fact is that you are judged-–or pre-judged—by your attire. Pay attention to your appearance. No matter what the position you’re applying for, dress professionally and compose yourself similarly. After you get the job, you can choose clothes that suit your personal style.
Have your portfolio and leave-behind ready – You’re a graphic designer and they want to see your work! In addition to your portfolio, leave the interviewer with a piece that gives them access to your design skill. I mean a brochure, view book, writing samples, flash drive, DVD, etc. At the very least give them a biz card with links to your portfolio site.
Arrive on time –Plan to arrive 15 minutes early. Being earlier than that may make the interviewer feel rushed. If you get there sooner, grab a coffee and use the spare time to practice your interview responses.
Be confident – You know why you applied for the position and you know why you’re right for it! Your task here is to convey this to the interviewer. Smile, sit comfortably–and straight, make eye contact, offer a firm handshake, and respond to questions with enthusiasm. And for God's sake, don't fidget.
Ask intelligent questions – By asking pointed, intelligent questions, you'll impress the interviewer with your interest and set yourself apart from the competition. Get a great list at SimplyHired.com
Follow Up – After the interview is over send a thank you note to all who interviewed you. Get their names or business cards of all the folks who interviewed you before you go—or snag them off the internet. You have the option of an email or hand written note—your call.I’ve recently added a 4x6 notecard to my identity package; I use this for invitations, thank yous, invitations, and notes.
Read other career counseling articles here:
- Job search and the job market
- Interview tips, resumes and cover letters
- Interns and internships
- Your graphic design portfolio
- Meet creative entrepreneurs