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       CV (curriculum vitae) or résumé: “CV” is the word used in the UK and Australia whereas “résumé” is usually used in the US (except in academic and many high-level positions, where you might see “CV”). This is a summary of your education and previous work experience. You can also include any awards you have won, and a description of any other activities or interests which are related to the job you’re applying for. It may also list referees (see below). Look online for examples of how to put together a CV. Prepare this before you leave your home country.

       References (Referees): You usually list two or three people who can recommend you when you apply for a job. These people are called “references” or “referees.” A reference could be a previous boss, a professor/lecturer, or someone else who knows you well. If you want to use someone as a reference, contact them, tell them about the job (or that you’re going to use them as a reference on your CV or résumé) and make sure they’re happy for you to give out their contact details.

       Cover letter (or Covering letter in the UK): This is a letter that you submit to possible employers with your CV or résumé. The letter says which job you are applying for and why you think you would be suitable for the job.

       Selection criteria: Sometimes employers will put up a numbered list of the qualities they want in the person they want to hire. These qualities are called “selection criteria” or “job specifications.” You need to show them that you meet all of their selection criteria to get the job. Sometimes they divide the criteria into “essential” (which you must have) and “desirable” (which if you have, you have a better chance of getting the job).

       Turn up at least ten minutes early. This shows your employer that you’re reliable and punctual, and gives you time to rest a bit and prepare yourself before the interview.

       Dress carefully. What you should wear will depend on what sort of job it is. For a professional position, such as an internship at a big firm, you should dress well (e.g. a suit and tie for men, a nice skirt or pants/trousers and a blouse for women). For a casual job, you may not need to dress up so much, but your clothes should still be clean, tidy, and free of any wrinkles or damage. If you need ideas on what to wear, ask your college careers advisor or friends who’ve had similar jobs. If you can, look at what other employees of a similar level to the job you’ve applied for are wearing. Check photos on the company website, or look at employees at work or walking into the building.

       Try to be relaxed, friendly, and confident. Remember that you’re being interviewed because the employer thought you sounded like a good employee! Show them that you’d be a good person to work with. Breathe deeply, sit up straight, look your interviewers in the eye, and speak clearly.

       Don’t try to be humble, or downplay your achievements. In English-speaking countries, you’re expected to “sell yourself” at a job interview. Focus on your strengths, and remember that you can always learn new skills and obtain new knowledge if they need it.

       Don’t keep referring to information that’s written on your résumé or CV, such as your grades or marks, unless the interviewers ask you about it. Your interviewers will have read your résumé, and probably have it in front of them. Even if your grades are excellent, remember they’re looking for a good worker, not just a good student!