Deakin career information interviewing guidelines for students (interviewers)
Am I eligible for the career information interview service?
To be eligible to access this service you need to be a Deakin student who is in their final year of an undergraduate course (ie 8 or less units left to complete their degree) or a post-graduate student. On and Off-campus students can apply.
How do I become an interviewer?
- Use the on-line search facility to generate a list of alumni members matching your requirements
- Select the preferred candidate
- Contact them by:
- Completing the on-line form
- Reading and accepting the Terms of Agreement
- An email will be sent to the selected person and they will respond within 4 weeks
- If they agree to be interviewed, you will be provided with your interviewee's contact details and it will then be your responsibility to make the initial contact
What happens if my request is not accepted?
If the alumni member is unable to accept your request (they may be too busy or taking extended leave at that time), you will receive an email notification. Should this happen, don't be put off - simply search again and make contact with someone else.
If you are unable to make contact with anyone after 3 attempts please contact the Careers Mentoring Coordinator: include your phone number and they will email or ring you to provide further assistance.
What are the requirements to be an interviewee?
An interviewee must be an Alumni member, with at least three year's experience in their career field or area of expertise and be willing to volunteer their time to be interviewed by a final year or postgraduate student. They will have an interest in sharing their professional experiences with you.
What am I expected to do as the interviewer?
It is your responsibility to make the first contact with the interviewee to arrange a suitable time to conduct the interview. You are expected to conduct yourself in a professional manner including observing confidentiality and only asking career related questions. You should follow up the interview with a written thank you.
In what form does contact usually take place?
As the initial contact is to arrange an interview time and method, it will most likely be by email. The interview could be conducted via a face-to-face meeting (including supervised work visit or coffee catch-up) or by telephone.
What questions should I ask?
Questions will mostly relate to gaining an insight into the career area and/or type of job you are interested in. Prepare a list of questions you wish to ask before conducting the interview. Questions could include:
- What has been your career path into your current role?
- Describe your current role
- What does a typical day look like?
- What do you like/dislike about your job?
- Where do you want to go next with your career?
- What advice would you give someone wanting to gain their first job in this profession?
How many times can I use the service?
There is no limit on the number of information interviews you can undertake.
Where can I get more information?
Contact the Careers Mentoring Coordinator.
