Interview program gives tips

Brent Peterson, founder of the Interview Angel, created a company that aims to help students and graduates to get jobs by improving their interviewing skills. "The purpose of the company is to help all job seekers take proper action to share their value and fulfill their professional goals," according to the Web site. Peterson said it's especially important to know how to interview well during these economic times.

Q: When was this company first started?

A: I first started this company, Interview Angel, in January of this year. We are located in Ashland, Va., but we send and help people all over the country.

Q: Why did you start a company helping students and adults on interviewing skills?

A: I was looking for a way and a product to help my friends and family members get the job they deserved. I wanted them to go into the interview with value. Now especially it is even more important to know how to present oneself.

Q: What are some of the problems that students and adults usually run into during the interview?

A: The number one mistake people make is lack of preparation. They fail to understand that preparing the night of or even seconds before is not the right way. Also people fail to show gratitude at the end. I read only 25 percent of people actually send thank you notes anymore. It's the little things that count and thanking an employer for spending tine with you is important. Another mistake people make is they forget they need to be a good storyteller. Everyone loves a good storyteller and in order to effectively communicate what you will bring to the table you need to be able to tell your story. Also please do not ramble on. Employers hate this. It's not what you say. It's how you say it.

Q: What then are some tips that students can use to avoid these problems?

A: First of all, you need to prepare. If you don't, it really shows. My number one advice would be to be able to clearly define what your goals are and the value that you will bring to that particular company. Also be sure to research the organization. People want to hire people who want to work for the company and are not just "job seekers." After 15 years of interviewing people, I know this. More importantly make sure to develop relationships with professionals, not your computer. You need to make connections. Internships are always a good option. Volunteering your time even if it's for free really pays off. Trust me. You need to be able to create your own opportunities.

Q: If students wanted to contact you to use your products what should they do?

A: Please go to our Web site, which is www.interviewangel.com. You can check out our products, which make great graduation gifts. I will even, for just the University of South Carolina students, give you a $20 coupon off our products from now until the end of May. There will be a link called Gamecocks on our Web site in order for students to do this. It really is a great way to help students when they graduate to know what to do in the real world. Even if it's just a quick question you can always send us an e-mail and we will respond.