All around campus Plymouth State University offers ways to help students prepare for the work industry, and provide students with resources to better prepare for their futures.
On Monday March 4th, Jenn L. White hosted guest speaker Miles Washburn in the HUB. The purpose of this event was for students to come and learn how to not lose a job before the interview even begins.
The speaker was Miles Washburn, college graduate and North Carolina native. At 22 years old he owned his own business. After being in the corporate world of sales, he is currently working around New England, and speaking at various colleges around the country. He also hires a number of many recent college graduates.
Washburn is the man that “weeds” people out for companies. He stated while speaking to students, “I am here to get you through your first interview.” After listening to him speak, students truly feel that he has helped them do just that.
Diving into the interviewing process Washburn made it clear that “the five P’s” would be the most important information to remember. The “P’s” represent, “Proper Planning Prevents Poor Performance”.
It is critical that a job candidate must be prepared for all aspects for their first job interview. Going into the interview fully prepared can give you a leg up on the competition in most cases. He stressed that separating yourself from the competition is what will most likely get you a job.
Washburn went into great detail about the criteria one will need during an interview, he mentioned, “one should have previous and extensive knowledge and research about the company and job position being offered.” Even if you have to read from notes about what you’ve researched, the interviewer will be extremely impressed that you have taken the initiative to look further into their company. It is also important to look your best and act professional at all times in any professional setting.
Washburn went into such meticulous detail of how to prepare oneself for the work field, he discussed the correct business attire and styles men and women should wear in the workplace, as well as what not wear. He also mentioned how body language can make or break someone during their interview, from the initial handshake to the way you sit down.
Last but not least, Washburn suggested you give great thanks to whomever you have spoken too; and not just once. Interviews should generally expect people to send a follow up email thanking them for their time and consideration.
“What can really set you aside from others however, can be simply sending a thank you card in the mail,” added Washburn.
This generation is completely technology based, so it can be a very humbling gesture and show real personality to send an actual thank you note to the company you are hoping to work for.
After college there will be constant competition in the workplace, so remember to do the extra special things that can set you apart from others. Too see more advice about career services, sales training and much more you can visit Washburn’s website at mileswashburn.com