Advice for a interview needed

I have an interview for a Desktop Support civil service job at a university on Monday afternoon and I have some concerns.

1. There is going to be a knowledge exam at the end of the interview. The ad listed A+ (which I have) and an Apple Certified Tech as preferred qualifications. Does that mean I should just bone up on A+ and Mac basics?

2. The interview is “informal” and “casual.” With that being said, I am not going to wear a tie. However, would it be wise if I still work khakis and a decent button down shirt? My jeans are not in the best shape right now.

3. When I am asked about why I want the job, would it be wise to throw in that I want to go to graduate school there (which I do)? I won’t say this that but it would be one of the reasons I would give.

Find more posts tagged with

Free for TechExams community: Cybersecurity salary guide

Compare cert salaries and plan your next career move

Button

Comments

LeBroke

1. You're fine with the A+. I always recommend on brushing up your qualifications for an interview.

2. Khakis/suit pants + dress shirt. Don't do jeans even if you'd wear them at the actual job.

3. I wouldn't. It might make it seem like you only want to work there for free/cheap tuition.

wink-

I agree with @tjb122982.

As someone who does the first rounds of interviews at my company, hygiene is important as well. Get a haircut, shave, look put together and ambitious. In a job like you are applying for, try to emphasize reliability. Say you want to show up to work everyday and get your job done.

Good luck with the interview!

TechGuru80

LeBroke wrote: »

3. I wouldn't. It might make it seem like you only want to work there for free/cheap tuition.

I do not think that is a detractor because A LOT of people who work at universities see that as a major benefit. On the flip side, they might use it as a reason to pay you less than they already will.

$bvb379

Always dress nice for an interview. I just interviewed at Dell and I was very overdressed compared to the people interviewing me but you should always want to make a good impression. Just like people make decisions in a split second when visiting websites people also make assumptions as soon as you walk in the room, although I understand this is less prevalent in the IT industry.

tjb122982

Thanks for all of the advice guys.

However, I just thought of another question: when I am asked why should they hire me, would it be okay just to talk up on personal qualities instead of my tech skills?

mkazi

I always wear a suit to my interviews...is this over dressing for Entry Level IT Jobs or is it OK? Even though i know that i won't be wearing a suit while working obviously...

tjb122982

Apparently, today was just a test. The good thing is that I passed and I have the in person interview on Wednesday. Don't worry, I'm going to wear a tie; I would wear a jacket but I don't have one here.