Final answer:
To prepare for an internship referral meeting with a previous employer, arrive early, bring essential documents like your resume and references, maintain professionalism, demonstrate enthusiasm, and prepare for the interview with practice questions. Networking and follow-ups are crucial for future opportunities.
Step-by-step explanation:
To prepare for a meeting with a previous employer to discuss an internship referral at their company, you should take a series of professional steps. Firstly, it's crucial to arrive 10 minutes early for an in-person meeting or log in 5 minutes early for a virtual one, to ensure punctuality. Bring along extra copies of your resume, your business card, a list of your references, and a pen and paper. Including a portfolio of your work is also recommended.
During the meeting, remember to be respectful, polite, and personable to every individual you interact with. Maintain eye contact, offer a friendly demeanor, and avoid sitting down until you are invited to do so. When answering questions, keep your responses clear, provide detailed examples relevant to the job, and connect your skills and experiences to the internship role. It's vital to show enthusiasm and maintain a positive outlook throughout the conversation.
In addition, you should prepare a list of thoughtful questions you'd like to ask the interviewer, encompassing topics like the post-interview process. Make sure to map out the meeting location or test out the interview software beforehand, review your resume thoroughly, update your portfolio if relevant, and choose a professional outfit. Practicing your answers to typical interview questions with someone can also boost your confidence.
Finally, don't forget the value of networking. Keeping in touch with former employers or colleagues and utilizing platforms like LinkedIn can be beneficial for future opportunities. Remember that how you communicate with your former employer can set the stage for a successful internship referral, so treat it with the seriousness and professionalism it deserves.