Graduating Soon?
Step Ahead of Your Class:
Deliver What Hiring Managers Really Want
An Interview with Richard Bayer, COO of The Five O'Clock Club
by Vanessa Theis, The Five O'Clock Club Staff

I t's that time again, when the country produces hundreds of thousands of new college graduates eager to jump into the work force.

      If you are about to graduate, how do you make yourself stand out?

      "When recent college graduates go on an interview it is important that they look like they can fit into the company," explains Dr. Richard Bayer, chief operating officer of The Five O'Clock Club. "Hiring managers want people who will be the best fit for their team."

      Here are some tips to help you get interviews and land jobs!

YOUR  RESUME: 

Will It Catch Their Interest?

ˇ     Always have a cover letter. If possible make specific comments about the company in your cover letter. This will show that you have done your homework and have interest in the company. 

ˇ     Make your résumé stand out from the rest-not by printing it on pink paper, but by leading with your strengths! You probably have had some work experience, which ideally fits with your interests. For example, if you like public relations and have had a job in it, headline your résumé with "Public Relations Assistant," and state your accomplishments.  Employers want people with experience.

THE INTERVIEW:

Outshining The Competition!

ˇ     Figure out what you enjoy doing and also do well. If you always enjoyed writing and hate numbers, don't interview with investment bankers just because your parents think it is a good idea.

ˇ     Always prepare. Don't look surprised when the hiring manger says, "tell me about yourself." You'll look silly.  Practice your answers ahead of time.

ˇ     Change your mindset. Move from a consumer mentality to a producer mentality. In school, you were the consumer; in the labor force, you are the producer. 

ˇ     Always show enthusiasm at the interview. Any slight sound of disinterest can be a turnoff. To be safe, try sitting at the edge of your seat to show that you really care.

ˇ     Always have a presentable appearance. Don't show any visible tattoos or body piercing. If you stray too far from the company's style, you won't come across as a potential team player. 

TALKING ABOUT SALARY:

Wait For An Offer.

ˇ     Do not bring up the salary issue. Chances are you don't have that much experience, so you are not in a strong a position to negotiate salary. Wait for an offer first. Try to get three concurrent offers. Then take the job that positions you best for the long run, not the one that pays a buck-an-hour more. 

FOLLOW-UP: 

It Definitely Counts!

ˇ     Always follow-up. Hiring managers are very busy people. Sending them a reminder that you are still interested will help keep you at the top of their list.

ˇ     Writing is the best way to followup.  Writing is more impressive than calling. Also, writing gives the hiring manager a hard copy of your comments and more time to think about them. But be sure to proofread! A letter with mistakes will kill your chances.

ˇ     Don't send them a sentimental follow-up. Telling them you "really like their company," won't do much good. Stress your skills and address any objections the hiring manager might have voiced during your interview.  l

Vanessa Theis is a sophomore at New York University. She works part-time at The Five O'Clock Club doing public relations.