Career Services and Mercyhurst’s Business Club hosted an interview preparation seminar this past Thursday, March 19.

Keynote speakers Frank Rizzone and Kristofer Gossett, Ph.D., informed students about interviewing etiquette in preparation for the Career Fair this Thursday, March 26. The fair will take place from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the Mercyhurst REC Center. Students in attendance were grateful for the timely advice.

The seminar is the first event held by new Business Club President, Mariano Lagos, who took office this semester.

“We always invite Frank Rizzone to do this talk with us because we know he works very tightly with businesses. His impute will be very useful,” Lagos said.

One of Lagos’ hopes for the seminar was that it would encourage more students to join the Business Club.

“These events offer great opportunities for students to hear feedback from professionals,” Lagos said.

Gossett, a Walker School of Business faculty member, opened the seminar, discussing the social queues prospective employers look for.

“They try to differentiate you in small ways,” said Gossett. “Make it a two-way interview. Don’t be afraid to ask a follow-up question.”

Gossett encourages students to research the job they apply for and be confident while in interviews.

“Sometimes they’ll ask you a question that you won’t be able to answer,” Gossett said. He stressed the importance of honesty in an interview setting and the necessity of advertising strengths and skills.

“Interview at a variety of locations, not just your dream job,” Gossett said.

He believes that all interview experiences are beneficial.

“You don’t want to get to the job you really want and worse than you expected because you haven’t practiced,” Gossett said.

Students were encouraged to prepare extensively for interviews.

“You study for a test because you want to do well. You should study for an interview because you want to do well,” Gossett said.

Following Gossett, Rizzone, Director of Career Development, expanded on proper business etiquette.

“Networking is one of the most important things you can do to get a job or internship,” Rizzone said, stressing the importance of making connections.

Rizzone is a primary coordinator for Mercyhurst’s annual Career Fair. The Career Fair is open to all students.

“I can’t reiterate enough how important it is to come early,” Rizzone said.

The Career Fair population shifts during the change of classes throughout the day. During low points in attendance, many employers at the Fair leave before its scheduled end.
“You don’t want to miss any opportunities,” Rizzone said.

The Career Fair will host over 90 employers this year, according to Rizzone. A list of the scheduled attendees was sent to students by email and can be found on the Career Development Portal.

The Career Development Department is currently booking mock interview opportunities for students who request preparation for Thursday’s Career Fair.