Dear
FF: You've
probably seen some of the prolific how-to's and books on
preparing winner resumes and job
interviews. There are many
excellent resources right on the 'net for landing your entry-level job. I'll list some of them
below.
Of
course you need to customize
your resume and presentation to
the particular needs of the
employer. Each situation is
different, and it will pay off
if you treat each potential
employer with individualized
care. Research an opportunity as
much as possible. Seek out
company/officer profiles, news
clips, past and present company
projects, current issues and
events relating to an agency's
specialty.
Their
bottom-line question will be:
What do you have to offer?
Outline some of your own ideas,
how you could contribute, why
you're just the right person for
the job. If you had some
impressive results as an intern,
wow your future employer with
examples. And if you can't win
them with facts, dazzle them
with dreams -- after all, you
are looking at a career in PR
where substance is often
secondary to style.
Here's
my best tip for a successful job
interview: Keep it in
mind, your interviewers are
likely as nervous about the
interview process as you are.
They are putting themselves on
the line with their hiring
decision, especially for a
position so out-front as a PR
representative. They are
inviting a stranger into their
"home," and that's
just plain scary. It is much
easier to hire someone than it
is to get rid of them. Look at
the interview committee across
the table, appreciate their
apprehensions, and you will
shine as you attempt to assuage
their own fears with reasons why
you're the perfect fit (if
indeed you are). And if nothing
else, by concerning yourself
with the worries of others, your
own might be minimized.