Your ‘real world’ inhaler: 12 interview and resume tips

By: Julia Hall – Staff Writer

The completion of the school year is a wary reminder for students of the uncertainty of the future. Graduating seniors are throwing up their caps and entering the “real world” workforce. Underclass men and women are contemplating summer jobs, future internships and potential co-ops. Summer break provides the opportunity to gain some experience to pad your resume. It also opens up a large window of time to create a LinkedIn account, revise a resume or apply for a job. Are you hyperventilating at the idea of navigating the application process? Do you need a little reassurance? Dom Bokich, a certified interview coach, imparted some words of wisdom regarding the application process in an interview with Flyer News:

1. If you do not have a lot of experience, volunteer. Even one-time service events show your character to potential employers.
2. “If I could summarize the book I’ve written and the job search into one word, it would be networking,” he advised. Use your connections with professors, friends and internship supervisors to land job referrals.
3. Attach letters of recommendation to online applications. They “build trust and credibility.”
4. Print out the job description and application requirements. Follow them to a T and be sure to proofread your resume.
5. Keep your cover letters short: less is more.
6. If your GPA is under a 3.5, leave it off your resume.
7. Talk about school projects on your resume and at your interviews. They are perfect illustrations of teamwork and work ethic.
8. Do not abbreviate assistant with “ass.” Be sure to use “asst.” or simply spell out the word.
9. The biggest interview fashion faux pas is dressing too casual. Skip the shorts and revealing clothing.
10. Research the organization before an interview and learn its motto. By demonstrating you do your homework, potential employers will be impressed.
11. Stay professional. Instead of signing your resume with “Keep it real playa” (which was on a resume received by Bokich), use “sincerely” or “best regards.”
12. Don’t be nervous. “They [employers] are hoping that you are the one,” Bokich said.

Bokich’s suggestions could help you reach your professional aspirations. Take his advice and fill out those applications with confidence.

For more advice from Bokich, visit dreamjobdaily.com.