Introduction to On-Campus Recruiting

 

 

What is the difference between on-campus recruiting and non on-campus recruiting?  Not all jobs listed in ClemsonJobLink will be interviewing on-campus.  Some employers post positions that enable students to send in resumes through ClemsonJobLink and will then hold interviews either via the telephone or at their location.  If an employer is interviewing on-campus, the date the employer will be on-campus will be specified within the job posting.

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When do I register for on-campus interviews?  Some employers will participate in on-campus interviews only once a year.  Others will visit during both fall and spring semesters, but they may be interviewing for different positions during each visit.  We suggest that you review the list of employers who will be on campus weekly to determine if they are applicable to your internship or full-time position search.

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Can I use on-campus interviews as a practice tool for other interviews?  If you are looking for interview practice, the Career Center offers seminars and mock interviews to help students develop interviewing skills.  When requesting an on-campus interview with an employer, your request is a serious expression of interest to that employer and an implied promise that you will schedule an interview if your application is accepted.  To help you determine whether or not to request an interview, consider the following:

  • How many interviews can you handle in a week?  Consider your time and class schedule.
  • What do you know about the employer?  Research the employer’s website to ensure sincere interest in the company and the position prior to setting up an interview.
  • Are you interested in the position?  Do not request an interview with an employer thinking that they may have a position other than the one you are interviewing for; employers come on campus with specific opportunities of employment for students.

Completing the interview does not imply that you would accept a job if one is offered. Sometimes you won’t know how interesting the company might be until you complete the interview. Just remember to apply in good conscience. 

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What if an employer is coming on the day I have a major test or classes and I cannot participate in on-campus recruiting?  If this occurs, contact the employer directly via email to discuss your interest in the position and ask about the possibility of setting up a phone interview or onsite interview.  The employer’s contact information is listed on the job posting in ClemsonJobLink. 

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What should I bring and wear to my interview?  Arrive 15 minutes early to your interview and be sure to bring extra copies of your resume, a pen, and some paper.  Dress professionally and conservatively.  Even if you know that you will dress more casually for the actual job, an interview is still a professional business meeting, and a dark suit is most appropriate.  If you want to add a little color, do so with a tie or a pastel colored shirt.  Keep jewelry and accessories to a minimum: stay away from dangling earrings or bracelets.  Go without cologne or perfume – you never know if your interviewer might have allergies. 

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