I know that some of you are still interviewing for last minute internships -- and I applaud you. If you don't have an internship for this summer, it's not too late and you still have a great chance of landing an opportunity. We still have plenty of postings available on www.internqueen.com. I know several of our ambassadors are still interviewing at really great companies this week, and many of you have asked me about last minute interview tips. You all want to know what you can do to stand out. Here's a few tips for that last minute interview:
•Dress professionally over trendy. I was with an employer yesterday and she was telling me about an interview she had with a student who came in wearing a maxi skirt, flip flops, and a low-cut Free People top. Yes, this is very stylish gear to hang around in - but it doesn't work for the interview. Dress to impress no matter how "laid back" the company is. After the interview you want the employer to think, "Wow, that student was trying to impress me!" You can always pair a statement necklace with a business suit or dress/cardigan to make your look "pop".
•Watch the Hair Flipping and Eye Contact. I've heard several employers complain about students flipping their hair during the interview and looking around the room instead of making eye contact. Watch this type of thing as it gives the impression of "I don't want to be here -- I have better things to do."
•Understand the Latest and Greatest About the Company. When I interview internship candidates, it always impresses me when someone brings up something that's new on my website. I also ask students what part of the business drew them to the internship. It becomes very clear when the student hasn't done their homework and made themselves familiar with my brand. Before you go into the interview, practice answering the following questions: What drew you to the company? Why do you want to intern here? What is one part of the business you are interested in working on or learning more about?
•Don't Be Hesitant. If the employer offers you the position, say that you are interested. Don't tell the employer that you have to "think" about it. This is a quick turn off. Wait until you get the offer, and then you can deal with other offers. You don't want to tell the employer they are wasting their time interviewing a candidate who might not take the position.
•Ask Relevant Questions. When it's time for you to ask questions at the end of an interview, have at least two great questions prepared and maybe a back-up question just in case the material is covered ahead of time. Make sure these questions are relevant to the position. This is not the time to ask the employer how they got started.
•Company Website. If you haven't been to the company website, don't bother going to the interview. Yes, it's that big of a deal.
•Thank You Card. Right after the interview, go home and write a thank you note to whoever you met with; stick it in the mail right away so they get it ASAP. You should also send a quick email note to the person who interviewed you thanking them for their time.