Finding Industrial Employment
This section consists of advice and information received from former students. Please contribute when you complete your employment search.
OR Analyst Positions
Most firms require a presentation as part of the interview process. Some give a particular case study in advance, and ask you to present your recommendations for action.
Some firms who have considered our graduates:
Signet Bank, Strategic Planning and Analysis, 804-762-8028
TransQuest Information Solutions (Delta Airlines)
1001 International Boulevard
Atlanta, GA 30354-1801
404-714-1680
Federal Express
Roadnet (United Parcel Service)
Timonium, MD
An executive search consultant (i.e., “headhunter”) that has placed several JHU graduates is JDG Associates Ltd., 1700 Research Boulevard, Rockville, MD 20850, telephone 301-340-2210, fax 301-762-3117. They provide an excellent “Interview Guide,” a copy of which follows.
‑ The objective of an interview.
While the ultimate purpose of an interview is to get an offer for the position, the more immediate objective is for the company to get to know you better and for you to get to know it better. Everything you do with regard to an interview should have this as its dual objective.
‑ The little things.
Always bring a résumé. Depending on the type of position you are applying for, you also may want to bring some writing samples, perhaps a portfolio of your work. Do not offer it during the interview unless asked, and afterward only if it seems appropriate. Do not provide anything that you need back.
Be on time. Fifteen minutes early is a good rule. This does not mean fifteen minutes early to the reception area, but to the building. The key to is to be certain to be able to walk or take the elevator to the office without risk of being late because of public transportation or not being able to find a parking place. This will allow you to present yourself to the receptionist five minutes or so prior to the interview in a relaxed and composed manner.
Dress. Present yourself professionally and conservatively. Remember, they are out to find someone who is comfortable with their culture; not someone who is interested in making a fashion statement.
Perfume/cologne. Avoid its use. It will not help and may hurt.
Be pleasant and engaging. Good eye contact, a strong handshake and a confident smile will get everything off on the right foot. Remember: the interviewer is looking for someone to hire, they like your résumé or you wouldn't be there. In short, the interviewer starts the interview looking to like you. Reinforce this from the beginning.
‑ The BIG things.
The basis of the interview is two parties seeking a mutual solution to each other's needs. Never forget this.
The interview is not the beginning of your relationship. It is better seen as a mid‑point. The beginning of the relationship was when you submitted your résumé or were otherwise introduced and they decided to bring you in for a closer look.
Know the organization. This is the part between the introduction (i.e., submitting the résumé and getting an interview) and the mid‑point. If they are going to commit their time to you, you should be willing to commit your time to them. Learn about the organization. An annual report would be useful in getting a sense of the organization. You may also want to contact friends and associates who might know something about the organization. If it is a publicly traded company, a stockbroker may be able to give you a quick rundown on its recent performance.
Know the job. See if you can get a position description before you go in for the interview. Be certain, however, to avoid giving the impression that you think you know all about the position or the organization. Part of the interviewer's job is to provide you with information and your giving the appearance of knowing everything already might be off‑putting.
Composure. It is natural to be nervous in anticipation of an interview. Remember, though, it is a meeting of those with a mutual interest. Interviewers are sometimes stern without intending to be. You are there at their invitation. A pleasant, engaging manner on your part will make it easier for the interviewer. Also, as you present yourself to a stranger for approval, your body chemicals may go through a change just as with public speaking. This change will occur naturally if you let it. The trick is to focus on why you are there; they invited you. FDR's aphorism “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself” was never more appropriately applied than to a person taking an interview.
Engage. Always concentrate on the fact that it is “a getting to know you” exercise. Maintain eye contact and be certain that your body language is natural and complementary to the discussion. Never seem to be reciting; look for opportunities for a two‑way discussion.
Be prepared to talk about yourself. Some interviewers will give you a chance to make an opening statement. Be prepared to take it; it allows you to lead the discussion. But never take more than five
minutes, and don't waste it on a recital of your résumé. Focus on what you have done and how it relates to the position you are seeking.
Their questions. Approach questions as further opportunities to present yourself. In practically every case you should avoid one word answers or answers that seem to be “pat” or packaged. Remember, an interview is not only a test of your specific knowledge, but an introduction, an opportunity to engage. How you speak (your manner, approach, confidence, comfort level) can be as important as what you might actually say. Another point - always avoid leaving the burden of the discussion on the interviewer.
Your questions. Be prepared to ask several questions at the end of the interview. Avoid questions about compensation. You should know the salary range before you get to the interview. Stress structural questions: To whom will I report? How does the division in which I will be working interrelate with other divisions? Questions about the organization and the industry in which it operates and the issues facing it will not only encourage the sense of mutual interest with the interviewer, but will also help you to decide whether you want to work for the organization.
Express Interest ‑ If, at the completion of the interview, you are still interested in the position, be certain that the interviewer knows this. Indicate early that you want to pursue the opportunity and ask what the next step will be. As a general rule, a follow‑up note indicating your interest is recommended.
Practice. If you have not been interviewed in the recent past, you may want to do a practice interview with a friend or associate.
Two Basic Things That Will Ensure Every Interview Is A Successful Interview
I ‑ Remember always that it is they who invited you; it is they who initiated the event. You would not be there if they were not already inclined to like you. Compose yourself accordingly; try to see yourself as a welcome, first‑time guest.
II ‑ The objective is for the company to get to know you, and for you to get to know them. Achieve this, and you will have had a successful interview.