Chances Are....

Chances are you know someone who is graduating in May and will be looking to join the workforce. After the diploma is in hand and you had your Hampton Paper Graduation party the next step is going to interview.

I have been in the software industry for many years on both sides of the desk and wanted to share with you some words of wisdom for the graduate you know who is about to embark on the exciting but stressful journey of interviewing. Here are my top 5 recommendations:

1. Make a list of companies you would like to work for and then use resources like Linked In to see who you might know that can get you an introduction. (if you don't have a Linked In account, create one)

2. Prior to your interview, thoroughly research the company - make sure you know the size, executive team, $ in revenue, current product line, competitors etc. Most of this info is available on line. I also recommend looking at the press release section as this usually provides very current info and will also provide good idea of something that just happened that was exciting to the company.

3. Come prepared with questions written down -either on a notepad or ipad.

4. "Close"! What does this mean? At the end of the interview you want to ask for the job. For example " You've spent a great deal of time with me today. Thank you. Based on our conversation would you recommend me for the position?" If they say yes, then you can inquire about next steps, if they say no, then ask why. You have given yourself the opportunity to overcome their objections. This recommendation is critical. Practice saying the above statement (or something similar) prior to the meeting so you are comfortable and it's easily incorporated into the conversation.

5. Follow up with an email to thank the interviewer and restate why you are a good fit for the position. This is your chance to remind them of why you would be a good hire. Be precise and professional!

To get started, write down as list of 5 things you are going to do every day to achieve your goal. Also, if looking for books on the topic consider one that your potential employer might be using like .... Top Grading for Sales. These types of books will provide insight on how they are going to conduct the interview and will help you be prepared.

Good luck!

Good Luck!