These 8 "Be's" Will Get You Past The Interview Stage

By Jessi Stickel on February 14, 2016

Post-college students and current college students will go to many interviews, whether it is for an internship or in search of their first official job.

Many college students can land an interview, but do not end up getting hired for the job in the long run. Some college students do not know where they went wrong within the interview or may even be oblivious to it.

Students may find themselves wondering if they wore the wrong outfit, if they talked too much or if they did not seem interested enough in the job.

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Here are changes you can make for your next interview that could possibly land you your dream job, or at least give you the upper-hand.

1. Be educated.

Before the interview, research the company you are being interviewed by. Employers want to hire people that are invested in their company, so it would be very helpful to know the important information about the company, such as their background or current successes.

This information would be very useful if the interviewer(s) asks the question: “Why do you want to work for us?”

Revealing that you took the time to inform yourself about their company shows that you are interested and potentially will be a dedicated employee.

2. Be confident.

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As Demi Lavato says, “What’s wrong with being confident?!”

In most cases, confidence is a key factor in an interview. If you don’t believe in yourself, why should they? It is helpful to go into an interview with your head held high, a firm handshake and knowledge of when to sell yourself.

This level of confidence can make the interviewer like you as a person. When you are shy and reserved in an interview, the interviewer(s) may think you are uninterested and not bother to give you a second interview.

Having a positive attitude will turn into a more positive interview and maybe a positive outcome as well.

3. Be professional.

In today’s society, it is easy to talk to anyone unprofessionally, like you would talk to a friend. This is a habit you definitely want to be aware of and make sure you do not slip up on.

Of course, if the interviewer(s) strike up a lighter conversation, do not be totally reserved, but make sure you keep your language and mindset professional. Some employers can have a negative attitude of hiring younger or “straight-out-of-college” workers, so show them that you can be professional when it is necessary.

4. Be polite.

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A crucial mistake that many college students make during interviews is that they talk too much. It might sound harsh, but it does not make the best impression if you talk about how you are such a great writer or how well you can multitask when the employer has other questions to ask.

This is also something that many people have the habit of when they are nervous. Sometimes it is unintentional, but it will effect the way employers interpret your overall personality. Just try to relax.

5. Be aware.

Many college students may not think body language is an important aspect of interviews, but it most certainly is. During an interview, the employer gets the feel of your personality and how you would fit into the company’s atmosphere along with the other employees.

If you are laid back in your chair with your arms crossed, it gives the vibe that you do not care or do not want to be there. However, if you have a smile on your face, sit up straight in your chair and seem intrigued in the conversation, it sends the vibe that you are interested, polite, and an approachable person.

6. Be attentive.

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Another common mistake that college students make during interviews is to go off topic, which can confuse and/or annoy the employer.

This is another habit that people exhibit when they are nervous, but you have to remain focused at the question that was asked. It is okay to elaborate a bit but make sure you are answering the question at hand.

7. Be humble.

It is perfectly fine to sell yourself in an interview; however, do not overdo it. You want to bring your skills and accomplishments to the employer’s attention, but do not brag.

No one wants to hire a know-it-all or what they would probably refer to as a “cocky millennial.” Be humble in the way that you show the employer what you are capable of, without selling yourself short.

8. Be thankful.

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After an interview it is important to thank the interviewer(s) for their time; however, it is also a good idea to follow up.

Shoot the employer a follow-up email a day after the interview, thanking them for their time again and to show your interest in the company one last time. This can give you an advance over other interviewees and keep you fresh in the employer’s mind when they are making the final decision.

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