By Christina Bucci MyCareer http://newsletter.mycareer.com.au/graduate/june2006/grad-update/interviews-for-you/blair.aspx  Following on from last month’s interview with Blair Whitehead from ProGrad, Australia’s only graduate recruitment agency; this month we ask his advice on the interview process. The do’s and the don’ts that every graduate should know! According to Blair, when it comes to the interview process, he often reminds graduates to contain their excitement – why? “Well just because you’ve landed an interview doesn’t mean you’ve got the job yet, there’s loads more work to do”, says Blair. “The best thing a graduate can ever do or anyone for that matter is once they’ve landed the interview they should do some background reading and put a proposal together. Just think about how much time students normally spend on assignments compared to interview preparation – it’s well worth it! “The proposal should include a SWOT analysis, which shows the employer that the applicant clearly understands the environment in which the business operates. It’s also extremely important for graduates to illustrate what makes them successful. Ask yourself - What are your redeeming qualities? Provide examples of how these qualities are used in a business context and thirdly the benefits this can bring to a business. By providing these examples, it shows that you’re one talented individual with real tangible skills. It’s OK to have a brag file! “Next you need to send the proposal to the interviewer before your appointment. Then when you’re in the interview you can talk through key points. This helps you reduce nerves, because you’ve already thought through your key points. “When it comes to presentation make sure you dress appropriately for the environment, an interview isn’t an opportunity to make fashion statements. Ultimately, people like people like themselves, so make sure that initial impression and connection is a highly positive one “Interviews are like sales campaigns, you’re there to prove that you’re the best person for the job, so don’t be afraid to speak up. Be positive, confident and build a good rapport with your interviewer.”