Oh The Places You Will Go!

This was the theme for this year's senior only "Dine and Shine" dinner. Each year, the Career Center puts on a formal dinner for seniors ready to graduate in the spring. In additional to a very delicious meal and desserts, we were treated to a fashion show with underclassman modeling proffesional business wear and casual business wear. This was helpful because we were able to see in person what was acceptable for an interview, on the job and in a more casual work atmosphere. I actually had an experience my sophomore year modeling for the Dine n Shine so I had an idea of what I was in for coming into this dinner. In addition to the fashion show, we were given many tips on how to act during an interview for the job of our dreams. I learned so many things from the speech that will put me in a better place to interview for a job. First, we learned that most 2nd interviews happen over a meal. The employer will invite the potential employee to a dinner (usually in a nice restaurant atmospher) to discuss in further detail your aspirations for a job. We learned many valuable dining tips like how to use all the different silverware in front of you, how to use your napkin during dinner and how many drinks you may order. The general rule of thumb for drinks is do not order any unless your company and employer are drinking then one per hour is acceptable. Also it is common practice to not order too much food. Our speaker said it is a good idea to eat prior to the interview so you are not starving and ravinous during your meal. It is betterto cut and take small bites so you do not look glutonous. We also learned that a firm handshake is a must. You don't want to reach out and shake your potential employeer's hand with a weak handshake. Overall the first impression you make during a dinner interview is one that will stick with an employer for quite some time so it is always good to be on your best behavior and practice these common courtesies. This year's Dine and Shine gave me a very good inlook on what I can expect during an interview, what is acceptable to wear and how to act to impress and employer!