The Interview
Is it OK to bring your cell phone to an interview?
No - leave it in the car
What are two ways you could research the company before an interview?
Company's website
Social Media
What's one way you can practice for an interview?
Practice out loud with a friend or family member
(Hearing your answers will help you navigate your responses and help you feel more comfortable talking about yourself)
What if..... an interviewer asks you about why you've been hopping jobs?
Be transparent and honest without being too personal
Describe your best/worst boss:
Answers vary
What should you bring with you to a job interview?
Notepad, resume, pen
Why is body language important in an interview?
Non-verbal cues say A LOT to an interviewer
Make sure you're communicating that you would be a good employee through posture, stance, and professionalism (i.e. don't cross your arms, stand when others enter the room, don't twirl your hair)
What's the first thing you should do if you feel like an interview question trips you up?
BREATHE
Take a second to breathe and relieve some tension. If you forget the question, as the interviewer to repeat the question.
What if.... you are sick on the day of an interview?
Stay at home (don't go to an interview sick as this will make you look unprofessional)
Best practice: Call within 24 hours, don't email
Don't over think it
Thank the person for rescheduling
What is your biggest strength?
Answers vary
How should you handle the question, "tell me a little about yourself"?
Use an elevator pitch. (30 seconds to say the most important details an interviewer needs to know)
Be quick, precise and don't offer too much personal details about your life
What would be appropriate to wear to an interview in an office setting?
Dark suit (pants or skirt), white shirt, jacket, manicured nails, simple makeup, clean/professional shoes
Why is it important to treat everyone politely and enthusiastically at a business you are interviewing at?
Your first impressions matter!
The receptionist is typically the first person you meet, and hiring managers will talk to them about their impressions and how you'll fit in with the workplace culture
What if.... you know or recognize the interviewer from outside of the company?
Keep it professional
Don't go into too much personal detail
Should you ask an interviewer any questions?
Yes- it shows interest. Have a few prepared questions to use if nothing comes up from the interview.
How would you handle the question "what are your biggest weaknesses"?
Choose an actual weakness that you are working to improve and what action steps you are taking.
T or F
You should put perfume or lotion on right before an interview?
FALSE
Avoid too much or over powering perfume right before an interview
Don't go in smelling like smoke or having body odor
T or F
You are probably OK with finding directions to your interview location the day of.
FALSE -
Best practice is to scope out your interview location the day before or prior to your interview to make sure you have the correct location
GPS is not fool-proof
What if... the interviewer asks about disability?
You are not required to answer questions related to disability under the Americans with Disabilities ACT. Politely decline to answer or redirect the question into a skill or strength. If you have a visible disability, you may benefit by giving an explanation of how you are able to do the job with any accommodations needed
Who has a job?
Tell us about your interview process
When does an interview begin?
As soon as you walk into the door of the company
What is the best way to follow up after an interview?
By sending a thank you (paper or email)
What type of homework should you do before an interview?
Research the company
Review the job description
Practice interview questions/responses
Figure out appropriate attire
What if.... your nerves overwhelm you before an interview?
Allow yourself plenty of time before an interview
Practice relaxation techniques (i.e. listen to music, stretch, call a friend and talk through it)
Practice breathing strategies
Remember what's important
Make sure you drink plenty of water
This was a fun way to learn about interviewing skills!
:)