11 answers
Emily
Student
Irapuato, Mexico
1
Question
Updated
1833 views
Translated from Spanish .
How can I stand out in my first job interviews if I have just graduated with a degree in Business Administration?
How can I stand out in my first job interviews if I have just graduated with a degree in Business Administration?
Hello everyone. I have just finished my degree in Business Management and Administration and I am looking for my first formal job in administrative or inventory control/logistics areas. I would like to know what advice professionals would give me to compensate for the lack of formal work experience when applying and interviewing. Thank you so much!
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11 answers
Wong Loke Yuen
Dean; Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
788
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
As a new graduate, you need to focus on showing employers that you have useful skills, a willingness to learn, and evidence that you can apply what you learned in your degree.
Before applying, tailor your resume to each position. Highlight relevant coursework, university projects, internships, volunteering, or group projects that demonstrate organization, problem-solving, communication, Excel, data analysis, inventory management, or logistics knowledge. For inventory and logistics roles, learning tools such as Excel, inventory software, and basic data analysis can also help.
In interviews, prepare specific examples from university or other experiences. For example, you could explain how you organized a group project, solved a problem, managed deadlines, analyzed information, or handled a disagreement with teammates. Even if the experience wasn't from a formal job, it can demonstrate transferable skills.
Before applying, tailor your resume to each position. Highlight relevant coursework, university projects, internships, volunteering, or group projects that demonstrate organization, problem-solving, communication, Excel, data analysis, inventory management, or logistics knowledge. For inventory and logistics roles, learning tools such as Excel, inventory software, and basic data analysis can also help.
In interviews, prepare specific examples from university or other experiences. For example, you could explain how you organized a group project, solved a problem, managed deadlines, analyzed information, or handled a disagreement with teammates. Even if the experience wasn't from a formal job, it can demonstrate transferable skills.
Dear Wong Loke Yuen, thank you very much for taking the time to share these valuable tips. Your recommendations on how to highlight academic projects and transferable skills as a recent graduate are extremely helpful in guiding my career search. Thank you very much for your support!
Emily
You are very welcome
Wong Loke Yuen
Heather Merrion
Accounts Payable Lead
3
Answers
Arvada, Colorado
Updated
Heather’s Answer
Confidence! Walk into the room with confidence. Make sure you have read through the job description and also do your research on the company. Give examples of what you have learned while getting your degree that can relate to the position that you are applying for. Knowledge is power! Best of luck to you!
Thank you so much for your kind words and encouragement, Heather! You are absolutely right that confidence makes the difference; I think it makes you come across as someone who knows exactly what they’re doing. I really appreciate you sharing your experience—I’ll look into it and practice it!
Emily
Olga Hernandez
Corporate Citizenship
2
Answers
Madrid, Community of Madrid, Spain
Updated
Olga’s Answer
Hi Emily,
Other professionals have mentioned all the good points you need to bring into consideration. I'll add something I think is usually underestimated in interviews: the level of ENERGY and person that you are. For a role that is a good fit for someone who is starting, the most important characteristics int he person are:
- Ability to learn, interest and curiosity. Being a fast learner is someone any manager will appreciate
- Positive energy bringing a nice atmosphere to the new team where good collaboration and gratitude are always present
- Showing you are the kind of person that people want to work with and a manager can trust
Hope this helps. Best wishes in your adventures!
Olga
Talk with people who have been in your same situation and now are in the type of role that better suits them and they enjoy
Other professionals have mentioned all the good points you need to bring into consideration. I'll add something I think is usually underestimated in interviews: the level of ENERGY and person that you are. For a role that is a good fit for someone who is starting, the most important characteristics int he person are:
- Ability to learn, interest and curiosity. Being a fast learner is someone any manager will appreciate
- Positive energy bringing a nice atmosphere to the new team where good collaboration and gratitude are always present
- Showing you are the kind of person that people want to work with and a manager can trust
Hope this helps. Best wishes in your adventures!
Olga
Olga recommends the following next steps:
Hi, Olga! Thank you so much for taking the time to share your advice. I loved what you mentioned about the importance of energy levels and projecting that positive attitude that makes others want to work with you. And really, thank you so much for the phrase "I wish you the best in your adventures!" I thought that was such a lovely touch. I truly appreciate it!
Emily
Guilherme Bento
Financial Analyst
1
Answer
Lenox, Massachusetts
Updated
Guilherme’s Answer
Have confidence! But remain humble and truthful. Do your research on the company and know the job description. Also make sure to ask questions so you can see if the role is right for you! It is not just the employer figuring out if you are the right fit for them, you should also be trying to figure out if the role is the right fit for you.
Hola Guilherme!! Claro tiene todo el sentido, al final creo que es importante que también me aporte a mi y sobre todo sentirte cómodo para no sufrir cuando vas a trabajar. También investigare sobre la empresa, seguro me ayudara a responder la pregunta: ¿Por qué quieres trabajar con nosotros?. Muchas gracias por tomarte el tiempo de responderme, lindo día!!!
Emily
Cliff Schreier
77
Answers
Rochester, Minnesota
Updated
Cliff’s Answer
Emily,
Good question. There are a number of things you can do to stand out.
1. I agree with the previous comment - tailor your resume to the position/company you are applying to.
2. Dress appropriately when you meet the prospective interviewer. It may not need to be business formal, but it should be a step up from casual dress.
3. Research the company you are talking with. Make sure you have good questions to ask them about what they make/deliver. Ask about the positions of interest to you. Be attentive and maintain eye contact.
4. Talk as much about what you can do for them as what they can do for you. Stress your previous experiences that will fit into their company.
5. Point out things of interest (i.e. education, experiences, skills, etc.) on your resume that should be important to the interviewer. If things don't look great on your resume, own them and give some explanation as to why this is the case. Don't try to hide or deceive in any way.
6. If the company has recently been in the news lately, ask them about it and what that means.
7. If you haven't done many interviews, ask the interviewer for feedback on how you did so you can improve. Show that you are willing to learn and change.
8. Maintain a positive and upbeat attitude throughout the entire experience. Make a good impression so the interviewer will remember you later.
It's a tough job environment, but you can break through if you work hard at it.
Thanks!
Good question. There are a number of things you can do to stand out.
1. I agree with the previous comment - tailor your resume to the position/company you are applying to.
2. Dress appropriately when you meet the prospective interviewer. It may not need to be business formal, but it should be a step up from casual dress.
3. Research the company you are talking with. Make sure you have good questions to ask them about what they make/deliver. Ask about the positions of interest to you. Be attentive and maintain eye contact.
4. Talk as much about what you can do for them as what they can do for you. Stress your previous experiences that will fit into their company.
5. Point out things of interest (i.e. education, experiences, skills, etc.) on your resume that should be important to the interviewer. If things don't look great on your resume, own them and give some explanation as to why this is the case. Don't try to hide or deceive in any way.
6. If the company has recently been in the news lately, ask them about it and what that means.
7. If you haven't done many interviews, ask the interviewer for feedback on how you did so you can improve. Show that you are willing to learn and change.
8. Maintain a positive and upbeat attitude throughout the entire experience. Make a good impression so the interviewer will remember you later.
It's a tough job environment, but you can break through if you work hard at it.
Thanks!
Dear Cliff, thank you very much for sharing such detailed and valuable advice. Recommendations like researching the company, paying attention to presentation, and maintaining a positive attitude will undoubtedly help me better prepare for my upcoming interviews. I found your advice regarding asking the interviewer for feedback on my performance—so I can improve—to be excellent; I will certainly take it into account. Thank you so much for your support!
Emily
Beth Emperor
Education
5
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Beth’s Answer
Emily, adding to much of the great advice here...if your interview is in person, try driving to the interview site a day or two beforehand to see how long it will take and if you may encounter traffic/construction. If a virtual interview, make sure you have a professional background (no pictures in the background, very plain) and make sure you are in a quiet environment away from people/pets that could be a distraction. Also put your phone, Apple watch in another room so you are not distracted. It is ok to pause and think your answer through and make sure to send a thank you note (ask for their business card or ask for their e-mail and correct spelling of their name). Send the thank you note via e-mail day of your interview or send the thank you note in the mail the next day. Wishing you luck on your journey.
Muchas gracias por los consejos tan completos Beth! Tomo nota de calcular los tiempos de traslado con anticipación y de enviar el correo de agradecimiento. La verdad tenia un poco de duda sobre si era mejor mandarles un mensaje después de la entrevista o no pero ahora que me lo aconsejas lo haré. ¡Me servirá muchísimo para mi próxima entrevista!
Emily
Colleen Sanchez
2
Answers
Updated
Colleen’s Answer
Research the company's mission and goals, and be prepared to ask questions related to the company. I have learned that being honest, transparent, and open has helped with having a more conversation during the interview rather than impersonal/transactional. Being transparent and being clear how you your skills can compensate for lack of experience can show how you can handle the responsibilities.
Research the company's mission and goals
Be prepared with a list of questions related to the role/company
Be transparent about skills compensating for lack of experience
Colleen recommends the following next steps:
Muchísimas gracias por estos consejos tan valiosos, Colleen! Tienes toda la razón en la importancia de prepararse. De hecho, llevaré mis preguntas anotadas en una libreta a la entrevista; me parece la mejor manera de mantenerme enfocada a pesar de los nervios y toda la nueva información que me explicarán. ¡Aprecio mucho que compartas tu experiencia!
Emily
Michael Doggett
Recruitment management
2
Answers
Oswego, Illinois
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Some really good advice has already been shared. I’d add that I think the questions you ask at the end of an interview are really important. They show that you’re interested in the role and the company and that it matters to you where you work.
I would make sure one of your questions focuses on “What does success in this role look like?”
One question I like to ask is: “If I get the job, when we get to the end of my first year, what will I have needed to accomplish for you to consider me successful in this role?”
That question can give you a lot of insight into what the company values and what they will expect from you.
I would make sure one of your questions focuses on “What does success in this role look like?”
One question I like to ask is: “If I get the job, when we get to the end of my first year, what will I have needed to accomplish for you to consider me successful in this role?”
That question can give you a lot of insight into what the company values and what they will expect from you.
Thanks a million for this great tip, Michael! I loved the question about what it takes to be considered successful after a year in the role; it clearly shows a great deal of interest and commitment. It will definitely help me a lot—and even put me more at ease knowing I’m not the only one who has to answer questions! 😂 Excellent advice; I’ll be taking note of those important questions!
Emily
Amanda Wilkerson
Human Resources
7
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Amanda’s Answer
This is such a small thing but make sure to greet everyone you meet and try to make a small connection with them. It's not only the interviewer who is important.
Another small tip - many companies will offer you a water or coffee while you wait for the interview to begin (if it is in person). Make sure you look to properly dispose of the beverage and cup before you go back for the interview. It shows you're conscientious and some companies really pay attention to this.
Another small tip - many companies will offer you a water or coffee while you wait for the interview to begin (if it is in person). Make sure you look to properly dispose of the beverage and cup before you go back for the interview. It shows you're conscientious and some companies really pay attention to this.
Thanks so much for the advice, Amanda! You’re absolutely right—it makes perfect sense. Paying attention to details and being kind to the entire staff completely changes the impression you leave, plus I think it’s just a nice thing to do. And I loved that tip about the coffee—it’s simple but important, almost like a secret tip. I really appreciate you taking the time to share it; I’ll definitely keep it in mind!
Emily
Charu Chitranshi
Strategic Account Director
1
Answer
Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Updated
Charu’s Answer
Adding on to the two comments.
First and foremost - stay honest about yourself. It always helps you and the interviewer to assess the genuine fit.
Secondly, for business admin careers (as you mentioned the lack of formal experience), you should focus on what you have learnt so far. highlight the skills that you have learnt and also the soft skills that you may have demonstrated throughout your student journey:
1. any projects where you have contributed significantly or led from the front
2. Internships or volunteering
3. Any events that you organised independently or in groups
Basically showcasing your capability of taking ownership. when you mention skills, backing them with examples always make them stronger.
Thirdly, whichever organisation you are interviewing for, learn about it and the role, so that you are more confident during the interview and can directly or indirectly mention where you may add value. As a fresher - one point always stands out it that you bring a fresh perspective and are curious and willing to learn.
All the best Emily!
First and foremost - stay honest about yourself. It always helps you and the interviewer to assess the genuine fit.
Secondly, for business admin careers (as you mentioned the lack of formal experience), you should focus on what you have learnt so far. highlight the skills that you have learnt and also the soft skills that you may have demonstrated throughout your student journey:
1. any projects where you have contributed significantly or led from the front
2. Internships or volunteering
3. Any events that you organised independently or in groups
Basically showcasing your capability of taking ownership. when you mention skills, backing them with examples always make them stronger.
Thirdly, whichever organisation you are interviewing for, learn about it and the role, so that you are more confident during the interview and can directly or indirectly mention where you may add value. As a fresher - one point always stands out it that you bring a fresh perspective and are curious and willing to learn.
All the best Emily!
Hi Charu! Thank you so much for such comprehensive recommendations. Your advice about being honest with oneself and knowing how to back up our skills with examples from school projects or our student days, especially when just starting out, really resonated with me. I will certainly take all your guidance to heart. Best regards, and thanks again!
Emily
Melanie Oberman
Chief People Officer
6
Answers
Fairfield, Connecticut
Updated
Melanie’s Answer
That's a great question! Use what you have, like your coursework, internships, group projects, part-time jobs, and volunteering experiences. Also, mention any tools you're familiar with, as these are important for entry-level inventory and admin roles. Share examples that show you're willing to learn, curious, and have a growth mindset. Aim for entry-level positions like coordinator, associate, or assistant, instead of manager roles. Most importantly, try reaching out on LinkedIn or doing informational interviews to get referrals, as this is much more effective than just sending in applications.