Interview Tips Illinois State University, September 23, 2009 Katie Bishop, University Relations Consultant, Travelers Insurance

Agenda Introductions About Us Traditional vs. Behavior Interviewing STAR Method Tips for Success Interview Etiquette Key Suggestions Questions

About Us Offer property and casualty solutions to individuals and companies of all sizes Second largest commercial insurer in the U.S. Second largest personal insurer through the independent agency channel Member of the S&P 500 Index Revenue of $24 billion and total assets of $110 in fiscal year 2008 Representatives in every U.S. state, Canada, Ireland and the United Kingdom, including our subsidiary companies Included in the Dow 30, effective June 9

Traditional vs. Behavior Interviewing Traditional: “Tell me about a class project.” Behavioral: “How did you go about deciding on your class project recommendation?” Traditional: “What was the most difficult decision you had to make as an officer in…?” Behavioral: “Give me an example of when you had to deal with adversity. How did you resolve it?” Describe experiences and career/life periods reflected in your resume Focus on the positives of all your past experiences and remain optimistic Use your time wisely; it's your time, make sure you get your points across Be specific: give specific examples where you had an impact and made a difference Use a variety of responses

STAR Method Situation: give an example of a situation you were involved in that resulted in a positive outcome Task: describe the tasks involved in that situation Action: talk about the various actions involved in the situation’s task Results: what results directly followed because of your actions

Tips for Success 1.Do your research-become an expert on company –History –Businesses –Community Involvement –Any current issues, news-makers 2.Review website-speak clearly about all aspects of the company 3.Know what you are interested in and clearly articulate that 4.Understand strengths and opportunity areas-be able to speak to both 5.Be confident-not too nervous, not too relaxed 6.Sell yourself-speak confidently about experiences 7.Get Clarification-if you don’t understand-ASK 8.Ask relevant specific questions (culture, diversity) 9.Watch your body language 10.Use appropriate behavior while waiting

Interview Etiquette Arrive Early Backpacks/Coats Eye Contact Handshake Business Professional Dress –Business suit/jacket –Make up/Jewelry –Shoes –Hair Thank You Notes

Key Suggestions Role Play Know where you are going/meeting Rehearse beforehand Bring pen, resumes, pad-folio Keep track of interviews, names of interviewers

Questions Contact Information: Katie Bishop