The interview, an inevitable step toward future employment.

From bag boys to CEOs, it is the hurdle potential employees must successfully complete to gain employment.

Students at the University of Mary had an opportunity to interview with local employers Thursday, with nothing to lose but a half-hour of their time. In exchange, they gained insight into their interview skills along with some advice for improvement.

"It's a good practice run for me to get some things ironed out so I can nail it," senior Tim Gauer said.

Gauer, a business administration major, has two interviews March 10 with financial institutions. He used the mock interviews to prepare for his interviews.

The mock interviews drew 25 to 30 students, who interviewed with one of seven employers, career services director Kevin Allan said. The interviews lasted 20 minutes and were followed up with 10 minutes of feedback. Additionally, the students will receive a written evaluation.

Most of the students were juniors and seniors preparing for job interviews or internships. A few sophomores participated because of interviews to get into programs, Allan said.

Overall, Gauer felt his feedback was positive with just a few minor details to work out, he said.

"It was a good experience," he said.

The only way it could have been more realistic is if it were in an office instead of the cafeteria. Another difference he noticed between this and a real interview was not knowing about a company where he applied.

Knowing about the company where a person puts in an application is important, MDU Resources Group Human Resources Director Scott Trent said.

Preparation creates a good first impression before the interview begins, he said.

"I'm looking for things before they speak," he said.

It includes showing preparation with what is brought to the interview, wearing clean, appropriate clothing and being well groomed.

Other tips to put applicants on their way to a good interview: use good eye contact, smile and give thorough answers.

When people answer interview questions, they should show how past experience relates to the job they are seeking.

Trent also recommends everyone have a two-minute "elevator pitch." It summarizes why a potential employer should hire them, he said.

"If you have one shot to make an impression, what is important to hear?," he said.

Career services also offers students mock interviews with its employees, Allan said.

Other services provided by career services include assistance with resume and cover letters, job placement assistance and help for lower classmen in finding a career area.

(Reach reporter Sara Kincaid at 250-8251 or sara.kincaid@;bismarcktribune.com.)