The student business fraternity of Delta Sigma Pi and Seidman College of Business matched students with employers face-to-face with an opportunity to sharpen their interview skills for future employment.

Last Wednesday, the mock interview event attracted students dressed for success to the Loosemore Auditorium, where employers and students participated in simulated job interviews.

Gabriel Valenzuela, vice president of Delta Sigma Pi, coordinated the event and recently was employed by Chase Bank after graduating.

“Students need jobs, especially after graduation,” Valenzuela said. “It’s about landing the job; you could have the degree, but not have the interviewing skill set.”

The first year event was designed with the aspect of having every type of employer available for every discipline.

“Our goal this year was to have 100 students and leave with something new that they didn’t know,” Valenzulea said. “Students will be evaluated at the time of the interview, which will help them prepare for job interviews.”

Area businesses that partcipated in the event included PNC Bank, Steelcase, Chase and Mill Steel.

Kyle Bainbridge, branch manager of Chase Bank, is in charge of hiring for this district.

“We’re always looking for recruits – we’re growing, and with growth comes more positions,” Bainbridge said. “It benefits the students also for potential job interviews.”

Bainbridge believes the number one thing a student can do to prepare for an interview is to research the company they are interviewing with.

Bainbridge said being able to answer the questions before he asks them shows that the person did their homework.

During the interview process employees filled out an evaluation sheet that students were able take with them to understand how to present themselves effectively.

“I look for self-confidence, posture and persons willing to learn,” Bainbridge said.

The main question Bainbridge devulged that employers evaluate is that of teamwork. When in a group situation, he always asks interviewees how they turn a challenge into a positive.

“In terms of defining the problem, they should be able to communicate the solution to everyone else and also involve everyone,” Bainbridge said. “What were looking for is that the display of leadership, teamwork skills and time management.”

Bainbridge added that although a student may have obtained his or her degree, work ethic, drive and motivation are also important.

Mike Dube, graduating this semester with a degree in management information systems, participated in the mock interview.

“It was an introduction to the world, so were not shocked, we know how to deal with the real situation,” Dube said. “I have two interviews lined up next week, this gave me an opportunity to practice.”

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