Cancellations - Should be avoided if at all possible. These are professional interviews and student interview etiquette reflects upon the campus. If you must cancel you must do so 48 hours prior to your scheduled time. Early notification allows other candidates to interview and gives the recruiters time to adjust their plans.
Changing Interview Time - You may change your interview times online if it is within a specified number of days prior to the interview date. The timeline varies for each employer, so if you are not allowed to change your time online, contact Career Services at 217-581-2412 or e-mail krwalters@eiu.edu.
Qualifications - If you do not meet the minimum qualifications, but are very close, i.e., GPA, then stop by or call Career Services. Depending upon the situation, we may be able to speak to the recruiter on your behalf to see if any exceptions can be made. Eligibility to work permanently in the U.S. is rarely waived as a requirement.
Informational Sessions - Be sure to check each interview schedule description to see if an informational session has been scheduled. Attend any that you are interested in. These are typically the evening before the interview date. Some sessions are mandatory. This is a great way to learn more about the employer and to get a chance to meet the employer in a more informal atmosphere. Recruiters do make note of who attends these sessions. If you are unable to attend an informational session due to class or a job, notify Career Services. We will inform the recruiter in advance of the reason for your absence.
Arrival - BE EARLY!! The accepted standard is 10 minutes early for your interview. Unless otherwise noted, ALL interviews will take place at the Career Services office. Check in at the front desk upon arrival.
Interview Attire - see Dress for Success page for proper interview attire for males and females. Also be sure to bring another copy of your resume, pen, notebook and your research notes and questions. Keep all of these items neatly in a organizer or portfolio if possible.
Be Prepared--Research the Employer - Always prepare for an interview by knowing about the company and the industry. Determine company size, the parent company or subsidiaries (if any), what their latest ventures are, growth and sales statistics, and challenges faced by the industry. Researching gives you credibility and confidence in an interview and helps you establish questions you can ask during the interview.See Interviewing Skills section to learn more.
