Student Job Service and Work-Study Job Interview Tips

First Impressions: Contacting Employers

Job Interview Tips
Cover Letter and Resume Tips
Additional Assistance from Career Services


Job Interview Tips

Once you have identified a job that is of interest to you, contact the supervisor to confirm the availability of the job and to schedule an interview. The application and interview process differs among student jobs. Some supervisors may request that you send a resume and/or cover letter prior to the interview, or they may inform you that you will need to complete an employment application when you arrive for the interview.

Student job interviews are often fairly informal. However, while on an interview, you should:

• Dress appropriately,
  
• Conduct yourself in a professional manner, and
  
• Provide accurate information regarding your skills, past work experiences, and/or professional references (if requested).

Supervisors usually address the following topics during a student job interview:

• Responsibilities of the job
  
• Pay rate for the job
  
• Job requirements (skill set, experience, etc.)
  
• Training required to perform the job
  
• Start date and length of employment
  
• Number of hours per week required for the job and available schedule
• Reference information (NOTE: The Student Employment Office does not provide information to prospective employers regarding your work performance in past student jobs at Boston University. However, a prospective employer may request that you provide this information before you are hired for the job.)
  
• The Student Employee Authorization (SEA) form (NOTE: All Work-Study students should come to the Work-Study Office prior to the interview to secure an authorization form. This form is required in order for you to be paid.)
  

By the end of the interview, you should know:

• What the responsibilities of the job are,
  
• What the pay rate for the job is,
  
• What type and length of training is required to perform the job,
  
• Your work schedule for the current semester, and
  
• Your start date and length of employment.

Feel free to ask questions if you would like more information on any aspect of the job!

Don't Forget! The Student Job Service staff is always available to assist you through the job search and interview process. Please contact us for resume review, job search assistance or interviewing help.

Additional information about effective interviewing is available on the Office of Career Services web site.

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Please feel free to contact the Office of Career Services at (617)353-3590 for additional resources or to schedule an appointment with a career counselor.

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