Whether you recently graduated college or are looking to switch careers, understanding the best practices for applying and interviewing can prepare you with the confidence and competence necessary to make a positive impression on prospective employers. From the initial application to the final interview, knowing the steps to take (and the ones to avoid) can increase your chances of landing the role you’ve been looking for.
At Goodwin University, we’re here to lend a hand as you seek the professional opportunities you deserve. Read on for a comprehensive guide to the dos and don’ts of the job application and interview process.
Do — Start with research
Before you even start applying, it’s crucial to do your homework.
Research the companies that speak to your interests and values to understand their mission, culture, and history. By learning what an organization is all about, you can measure whether the job opening fits your needs. Moreover, you can tailor your application to align with the company’s goals — demonstrating a genuine interest in joining their team.
Don’t — Apply to every posting
While putting your name in the hat for every job opening may seem like a surefire way to get hired, it can have the opposite effect.
When you apply for every vacant position, you’re less likely to dot your I’s and cross your T’s when researching companies, hindering your ability to tailor your application to a given organization.
A generic application is unlikely to catch the eye of hiring managers. Instead, focus on quality over quantity by targeting the roles that best align with your skills and interests.
Did you know?
From Manufacturing and Business to Human Services and Healthcare, Goodwin University has partnerships with employers throughout the state.
Do — Craft a memorable resumé and cover letter
Your resumé and cover letter offer potential employers their first glimpse of who you are. To ensure you leave a positive and lasting impression, take the time to present yourself in the best possible light.
Highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description. Use action verbs and quantify your achievements where possible (e.g., “increased sales by 20%”). Proofread multiple times to ensure there are no errors.
Don’t — Exaggerate your qualifications
Remember: honesty is always the best policy. While you should craft your resumé and cover letter in a way that makes you shine, never exaggerate your qualifications or experience. Employers are skilled at identifying over-inflated resumés. Beyond disqualifying you as a candidate, being caught in a lie can damage your professional credibility.
Did you know?
Goodwin’s dedicated Career Services team is ready to help workshop your resumé and cover letter, equipping you to apply for jobs with your best foot forward.
Do — Thoroughly prepare for your interview
Preparation is essential for a successful interview. It shows you are serious about the opportunity and respect your interviewer’s time.
Practice your answers to common interview questions, highlighting your skills, experience, and accomplishments. Research the company thoroughly so you can discuss why you want to work there and what you can bring to the role.
However, remember it isn’t just a matter of having all the answers. It’s also important to ask the right questions. To stand out as a memorable candidate, prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer — this emphasizes your enthusiasm for both the position and the company.
In addition to fine-tuning your interview responses, practice your body language and eye contact, as non-verbal communication is just as important as your words. If you struggle to make eye contact, explore resources and strategies to help bolster this skill.
Don’t — Over-rehearse your answers
While preparation is pivotal, over-rehearsing can work against you. Memorizing answers word-for-word can make you sound robotic, and prospective employers want you for the unique individual you are.
When asking your questions during the interview, avoid queries that may come across as superficial, such as details about salary or paid time off. While compensation is an important consideration, most job descriptions outline this information. If not, you can address these questions with human resources.
Did you know?
Goodwin’s Office of Career Services offers mock interviews to help prepare you for the big day, aligning your practice questions with those most likely to be asked by prospective employers.
From Career Services and Counseling to Academic Advising and Tutoring, Goodwin has the comprehensive support services you deserve — championing your personal and professional success. Learn how Goodwin can help you crush your career goals today!
Do — Dress for success
Your appearance can influence first impressions, so being well-groomed and appropriately dressed is crucial. Choose attire aligned with the company culture and role you are applying for. When in doubt, it’s better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.
While you should avoid wearing anything distracting or extravagant, a subtle statement piece, such as an eye-catching tie or unique pair of shoes, can help you stand out to your interviewers — making you all the more unforgettable.
Don’t — Present yourself unprofessionally
Even if the company has a relaxed dress code, you should never arrive at an interview dressed too casually. Doing so may inadvertently imply a lack of genuine interest in the job opening.
While a small statement piece can amp up your interview aesthetic, avoid strong perfumes or colognes, overly flashy jewelry, or anything that may distract from the conversation. First impressions matter, and you want to present yourself as a professional.
Did you know?
Goodwin’s Ann B. Clark Co-op can provide professional attire for free, allowing you to find the right look without spending your hard-earned money on an expensive interview outfit.
Do — Be respect your interviewers and their time
Respecting the interviewer’s time is a fundamental aspect of professionalism.
Arrive 10-15 minutes early for your interview to demonstrate your punctuality and enthusiasm for the role. Greet everyone politely, from the receptionist to the interviewer, and turn off your phone to avoid potential distractions.
Don’t — Show up late (or too early!)
Showing up late suggests poor time management, while an early arrival can inconvenience the staff. If you are more than 20 minutes ahead of schedule, consider waiting in your car or taking a brief walk.
In addition to being considerate of your interviewers, show respect for your current or past employers. Speaking negatively about the companies or organizations you’ve worked for reflects poorly on your professionalism.
Did you know?
Goodwin’s Career Services has accessible online resources to help you navigate job interviews with confidence and poise.
Do — Send a friendly follow-up message
Following up after an interview can leave a lasting positive impression — demonstrating courtesy toward your prospective employer and an eagerness to join their team.
Send a thank-you email within 24 hours of the interview. Express your appreciation for the opportunity to interview and reiterate your interest in the position. Mention something specific from the interview to personalize your message.
Don’t — Follow up too frequently
Be sure not to overwhelm the employer with multiple follow-ups or contact them too frequently. Don’t be too informal or make demands in your thank-you note. A simple, polite message is impactful and appreciated.
Did you know?
Goodwin University hosts career fairs throughout the academic year — facilitating opportunities for you to network with employers in your field.
What to do if you don’t land the job
If you don’t receive a job offer, try not to take it personally. Employers consider many variables when making hiring decisions, such as the specific needs of their current team. Not landing a role isn’t a personal failure — it simply means the job wasn’t the right fit.
Instead of feeling discouraged, embrace a growth mindset and use the experience as a learning opportunity. Politely reach out to the interviewer and ask for feedback on your performance to gain valuable insights into areas for improvement. Reflect on the process, reassess your strengths and weaknesses, and continue to refine your resume and interview skills.
Remember, rejection is a natural part of the job search journey. Stay positive, keep applying, and see each interview as a chance to move closer to finding the right job for you.
Prepare for professional success
Navigating the job application and interview process can be challenging, but following these dos and don’ts will set you up for success.
By researching your potential employer, preparing thoroughly, dressing appropriately, and demonstrating respect, you can make a strong impression and increase your chances of landing the job. Remember, every interaction is an opportunity to showcase your professionalism and enthusiasm.
Good luck out there!