As valuable as your time at community college is, the ultimate goal for students enrolled in a career/technical education program is to set you up for a career. Attempting to enter the job market is exciting, but also potentially anxiety-provoking. If you’ve been invited for an interview, the guide below offers tips for how to give a positive impression.

4 Ways to Stand Out at a Job Interview

1. Perform Research

While you probably learned a lot about the company when you were applying, take the time to dig into its history and get a true sense of its values.

You should also see what you can learn about the person conducting the interview, and about your potential future boss since this might not always be the same person. You can start by looking on the company’s website, before branching out to LinkedIn® and other social media platforms. This can help you find points of commonality with the person you are going to meet; it also allows you to better understand the department’s goals and how your own skills might apply to their current situation.

2. Brainstorm Questions & Think of Your Own

While interviewers will ask about matters unique to the job, there are some questions that tend to crop up in any industry, such as inquiring about your future goals, as well as what you perceive to be your strengths and weaknesses. Southeast Community College offers free tips on interviewing and other job-seeking tasks to current students and alumni.

Additionally, think of several questions about the company that you have and work them into your interview. This will show genuine interest and thoughtfulness. 

3. Dress Appropriately

“Dress for the job you want,” is popular advice. Look at the company’s website to see if a dress code is mentioned. If not, examine pictures of what employees are wearing and try to find something similar. In a business setting, this is often business slacks and a buttoned shirt. However, in some instances, you might need a suit.

4. Follow Up

Keep your name at the forefront of their minds by following up the interview with a thank-you note. It’s a simple act that acknowledges the value of their time. In it, consider mentioning a particular moment that stood out to you, offering either analysis of what was discussed or asking follow-up questions. This can help them realize how serious you are about the position and further emphasize the value you can bring by offering a fresh perspective.

At Southeast Community College in Nebraska, job interview training and resume development are available through the Career Services Office. Students can also earn associate degrees, diplomas and certificates in more than 60 programs of study, which can help boost your appeal in the eyes of potential employers. Contact SCC’s Career Service staff at 402-228-8216 for the Beatrice Campus, 402-437-2622 for the Lincoln Campus, and 402-761-8242 for the Milford Campus. You can find additional information about SCC’s offerings on the community college’s website.