Job Applications & Resumes
What is the purpose of a resume?
To highlight your skills, experience, and education to show why you’re a good fit for a job.
What’s one thing you should do before every interview?
Research the company and review the job description.
What does it mean to be “on time” for work?
Arriving early enough to start working at your scheduled time (not walking in right at the start).
True or False: Most people keep the same job their entire life.
False — most people change jobs or even careers several times.
What’s one example of professional behavior at work?
Dressing appropriately, showing respect, following rules, or being dependable.
True or False: You should list every job you’ve ever had on your resume.
False — only include the most relevant jobs and skills.
If an interviewer asks, “What is your biggest strength?” — what’s a good way to answer?
Share a real strength and give an example of how you’ve used it at work.
What’s one example of good teamwork in the workplace?
Helping a coworker finish a task, sharing ideas respectfully, or communicating clearly.
What’s one way you can keep growing your career after being hired?
Examples: asking for training, networking, taking classes, learning new skills.
What’s the difference between professional communication and casual communication?
Professional = respectful, clear, polite; casual = slang, jokes, or informal tone.
What’s one way to explain a gap in your resume if asked in an interview?
Be honest but positive (example: “During that time, I focused on personal growth, training, or volunteering.”).
If you’re asked about a weakness, what’s the best way to answer?
Choose something real but minor, and explain how you’re working to improve it.
Employers often call “soft skills” just as important as technical skills. Name two soft skills.
Examples: communication, problem-solving, teamwork, time management, flexibility.
What is a “career pathway”?
A series of connected jobs and training steps that help you grow in a career field.
If you have a conflict with a coworker, what’s a professional way to handle it?
Stay calm, talk privately, listen, and work toward a solution.
Why is it important to use “action verbs” on your resume (like managed, created, organized)?
They make your experience sound stronger and show what you actually accomplished.
Why is it important to prepare questions to ask the interviewer at the end?
It shows interest, preparation, and helps you see if the job is a good fit for you.
What should you do if you don’t understand how to do a task at work?
Ask questions, request clarification, or ask for training instead of guessing.
What’s one advantage of starting in an entry-level job?
It gives experience, helps build skills, and can lead to promotions.
Why is body language important in the workplace?
It shows confidence, attentiveness, and respect (or the opposite if negative).
What’s one way to tailor your resume for a specific job posting?
Match keywords from the job description, highlight relevant skills/experience, and adjust your summary.
What is the “STAR method” used for in interviews?
To answer behavioral questions by explaining the Situation, Task, Action, and Result.
What does it mean to “take initiative” at work?
Doing things without being asked, looking for ways to help, and solving problems proactively.
Why is networking important for career growth?
Because many jobs are found through connections, and networking builds opportunities.
What does it mean to “communicate assertively” at work?
Expressing your thoughts clearly and respectfully without being passive or aggressive.