In today’s tough job market, well-honed interview skills can make the difference between winning and losing that big job opportunity.
The Résumé and Interview Skill Enhancement (RISE) experiential interviewing and résumé critique program is designed to give College of Business Administration students and alumni a competitive edge when it comes to the job interview process.
Offered by Career Management Services (CMS), RISE was launched three years ago to address employer feedback on the interviewing skills and resume quality of the college’s graduates. In addition, RISE allows students and employers to become more familiar with CMS facilities and to provide valuable networking opportunities for everyone involved.
According to Sammi Rosin Lewis (MSHRM ’09), CMS assistant director who developed the RISE program, more than 30 employers and 200 students took advantage of the five RISE events held over the past academic year.
The list of employers who have participated in RISE includes Assurant Group, BDO, Burger King, Enterprise Royal Caribbean, Ryder, State Farm, TD Bank, Terremark Worldwide, USDA and Walgreens.
Tough RISE sessions leave this graduate better prepared for real interviews.
“I’m ready.”
That’s how Yingchao “Lucy” Liu (MBA ’12) feels after participating in several mock interview sessions.
“RISE provides a good way to practice real interview skills and build confidence,” she said. “What we learn in the classroom is so different from the real working world. These mock interviews provide a bridge between the two. I now have a good feel about what an employer expects from an interview.”
What are some of the things Liu has learned from her mock interviews?
“In one session, the interviewer asked me 13 tough questions and provided feedback and useful suggestions on how I answered each one,” she said.
Another good tip Liu shared: If asked how many jobs you have applied to, answer in a way that leaves the interviewer with the impression that your company is the only one you are considering.
“When it comes to a successful job interview, it’s worth putting in the practice,” she said. “RISE can help.”
