When interviewing for a job or internship, your first interaction with an employer often begins with an email or a phone conversation. From that very first point of contact, the interviewer is evaluating your professionalism. Below are tips on how to put your best professional foot forward.

Professional Email Tips
- Use a professional email address
- Use a descriptive subject line such as “Marketing Assistant Interview”
- Keep your message professional, short, and concise
- Do not use casual language, abbreviations, all CAPS or emojis. Write in complete sentences
- Use an easy-to-read font
- Be sure to spell-check and proofread your message before sending
- Thank the professional at the end of the email
Professional Phone Tips
- Record a professional voicemail message. For example, “Hello, you have reached _____________. I am unavailable at the moment. If you could please leave your name, number, and a brief message, I will get back to you as soon as possible. Thank you.”
- Choose a quiet environment for phone conversations
- Do not answer your phone in a loud setting or while driving. Have the phone call go to voicemail and return the phone call
Professional In-Person Interactions
- Dress professionally
- Greet the professional with a firm handshake, introduce yourself with your first and last name, and express your interest in meeting them
- Show that you are listening. Nod your head, smile, and maintain good eye contact
- Avoid excessive hand gestures. Keep your hands in your lap, if possible
- Turn off your cell phone. Do not answer your phone or text during any interactions with professionals
Professional Virtual Interactions
- Choose a quiet location where you will not be interrupted
- Select a location that has a clean and professional background
- Be sure to download the virtual platform that is going to be used for the internship, job or informational interview
- Test the virtual platform prior to the start of your interview/meeting
- Test your Wi-Fi to ensure a good connection
Professional Digital Presence
- Share content that is professional in nature or appropriate for a wide audience
- Maintain strict privacy settings on social media and monitor them on a regular basis
- Be sure that all profile photos are appropriate. Check other photos as well. If you are unsure if a photo is appropriate, it is best to just delete or untag it
- Google yourself. Delete and/or update inappropriate information (at least during your internship or job search)