Students spend four years in class and 15 minutes in a job interview.

That can be scary, but it can be easier with preparation, said Becky Bennett, director of the Career Services Center.

Bennett said many employers want someone who can learn and adapt, has done research, has experience and leadership and communication skills.

A well-prepared resum?ss, proper attire and practice are important as well, she said.

“People become more confident with more research,” she said.

Bennett said employers seek people with leadership and communication skills. They’re more trainable because they’re motivated and are always planning ahead and looking for what the organization needs, she said.

“Most employers realize that it’s lifelong learning and training to keep them competitive,” she said.

J.R. Kaster, branch manager for American General Insurance in Bowling Green, said he looks for personality. He wants someone who can effectively communicate with people.

One tip he has for candidates is research.

“It’s very impressive to have someone come in and tell me about my company,” he said.

Research is important, Bennett said. Applicants should look at job descriptions because they can find out how to market themselves.

“It’s like a cheat sheet,” she said.

A typical employer spends about 60 seconds scanning a resum?, so students should spend time targeting their resum?, Bennett said.

Students should stay away from fancy fonts and colors because the focus should be on content, she said.

Students can begin preparing for interviews early with hands-on experience, such as internships.

Tess McKinley, assistant director of the Career Services Center, said students often have preparation problems.

“A lot of times they just don’t know how to market themselves,” she said.

Bowling Green senior Dustin Wood came to an interview workshop through the Career Services Center. He said he came because interview tips are always helpful.

“I think what can be difficult is people not going in prepared,” he said.

Dressing professionally is essential. Bennett said candidates should figure out how people at the company dress, and dress a little better than that for their interviews.

Staying cool, calm and confident is also important, McKinley said.

Darryl Young, regional sales coordinator for Aflac Insurance Company, said he interviews about 12 people each week for various jobs in the company.

He said many younger people tend to make the mistake of not dressing as professionally as they should and not asking a lot of questions.

He said he’s looking for someone who wants a career, not just a job.

“I want somebody who’s got some gumption,” he said.

Bennett also said students often think they don’t have as much practical experience as they really do. Class projects and activities are often relevant, she said.

Reach Nina Bosken at news@wkuherald.com.