In his book How to Win Friends and Influence People, author and motivational guru Dale Carnegie says that the person who can speak acceptably is usually considered to possess greater ability than he actually has.  In my experience, this is true.  If you look and act like you know what you’re talking about, people will think that you do – regardless of the reality. 

 When you’re interviewing in a new field, you don’t have a vast store of knowledge and years of experience to draw from but still need to create the perception of being competent and informed.  The key to coming across this way is to prepare, but not too much.  You want to do just enough research so that you know what to expect and can speak intelligently on the points related to your job function. 

Determine in advance what type of interview you’ll be having so you aren’t caught off guard.  Will the meeting be one-on-one, or will you be sitting in front of a panel of executives?  Will you be asked to consider a real-life business problem?  Once you have this information, practice giving succinct and articulate responses in front of friends or a mirror.  In the actual interview, begin with a strong handshake, speak slowly and confidently, ask thoughtful questions, and listen more than you talk.

Few new college grads have a wealth of experience to boast about, but by yourself in a skillful manner, you’ll appear seasoned beyond your experience and will succeed in getting in the door – and making that doorstop hold.