Tightening job market makes it essential that new graduates be at the top of their job-search game

New York, NY, ñ Creating a mock interview space in a college dorm room or off campus apartment that simulates an across the desk meeting can help you land the job or internship you want says Robert Graber, founder of WallStJobs.com. ìEven if it means having to clean up a space cluttered with clothing, books, or pizza boxes, setting up a faux-office will help put you in the correct mindset.î

Graber suggests that students alter the traditional ìdesk-against-wallî layout to allow for the more traditional interview scenario of being seated across the desk from an interviewer. ìMany students are initially uncomfortable with making eye contact and sitting upright,î said Graber. ìBy creating this environment, students can begin to hone their skills.î

ìCollege career offices have typical interview questions for the type of position you are interested in,î said Graber, ìso get a copy of these and have your roommate or a friend sit behind the desk and ask you these questions. Repeat the process until you are able to answer each question comfortably and with a minimum of ëlikesí and ëyou knows.í Make eye contact and donít fidget.î

Graber also suggests the following:

- Wear interviewing clothes (Is that collar too tight? Buy a new shirt!)

- Assume the role of interviewer at least once (What things do you find distracting from a candidate? Learn from others.)

- Consider organizing others in the dorm and use a common area for the mock office (It will be larger and you wonít have to clean up your own room!)

ìThe interview is the make or break moment,î said Graber. ìBy devoting time to developing your ability to handle this critical situation, you will be enhancing your chances of getting a job offer. When you have written your thank you notes and accepted the position, you can move the desk back against the wall and congratulate yourself on a job well done.î

About the company: WallStJobs.com, the premier recruiting source exclusively for financial service professionals, is a member of the Jobosaurus family of uniquely specialized recruiting sites.