With only five weeks left until graduation for seniors, interviews are more important than ever.
But before someone can get his or her perfect job, they need to be aware of a few common myths dealing with interviews.
First, regardless if a job offer is received, a thank-you note is always necessary.
Janet Johnson, principal at Auburn Early Education Center, said group interviews often give an applicant time to stand out.
"When there is a group panel for an interview committee, then the person being interviewed should follow up with a note to each member of the committee," Johnson said. "That is what will set the applicant apart from others. Usually the person only follows up with the one person they interviewed with."
Joyce Morgan, associate superintendent for Auburn City Schools, said she thinks thank-you notes have become underrated.
"I think it shows respect for the (interviewer)," Morgan said. "I have received very few thank-you notes and I have been interviewing for 30-plus years."
Also, interviews should always be approached as a learning opportunity.
Jake Brantley, senior in electrical engineering and music, said he had never thought about taking notes at an interview.
"I never have (taken notes)," Brantley said. "But I don't think it would be a problem."
Although Brantley was inexperienced with note taking, he said he knew certain things mentioned in an interview should always be remembered.
"(I'd write down) company philosophy, mission statements and job descriptions," Brantley said.
Another important thing to remember when looking for a job is to know when to apply.
Most college students have heard to start applying early and to be sure to have a guarantee by spring, but many businesses are actually looking for work at all times of the year, including summer.
"In the business of education, often times applicants are hired during the summer months," Johnson said. "This is quite different from other businesses, but it is important for those students seeking jobs to continue to contact the different businesses and to check online for any possible openings."
It is true that before applying to a job an applicant should make sure they're an appropriate fit for the position, but being the most qualified candidate does not always guarantee a job offer.
"The interview process is a very complex process," Johnson said. "The committee has to base their decision on what's written on paper, which is often times limiting as well as the interview itself. Many times candidates who have a relationship with the organization already may have a slight advantage in getting the job."
Morgan said she believes that many businesses will soon be moving toward performance-based interviews.
"People go into paid internships to get observed," Morgan said. "You see their comings and goings.
Upon receiving a job offer, it's important to remember that compromises and negotiations are always allowed.
It is also important to speak up in the beginning about the desired job responsibilities and positions before work actually begins.
"If it's your first job, you don't have much negotiating power," Morgan said. "I'd have an offer in my hands before I started asking questions."
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