Dress for Success
What is the key rule of thumb that you should apply when figuring out what to wear for the interview?
The “One Level Smarter” Rule.
Give me an example of a common question.
1. Tell me about yourself
2. How did you hear about this position?
3. What is your greatest strength?
4. What are your weaknesses?
5. What's your ideal work environment?
6. What motivates you?
7. What is your greatest professional achievement?
8. What are you looking for in a new position?
9. Do you like working independently or on a team?
10. What do you know about thiscompany/organization?
11. Why do you want to work here?
12. What do you like least about your job?
13. Why do you want to leave your current company?
14. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
15. Why should I hire you?
Why is body language important?
Employers make decisions based off body language and the tone of your voice more than what you actually say.
How early should you be to the interview?
10-15 minutes early
What is the reflection after an interview called?
Post-mortem reflection.
What can you do to have a better understanding of what is acceptable dress in the workplace?
Research. Go online, go to the place of business, ask someone you know that works there.
Give me an example of Behavioral Question.
Tell me about a time that you had to deal with a difficultclient or customer and how you communicated thecompany’s policy to them.
Can you tell me about an example of when you had to breaksome bad news to someone and how you handled thesituation?
Explain a time when you had to deal with a situation that wasoutside the scope of your job’s regular responsibilities andhow you handled it.
Tell me about a time that you ran into an unexpected obstacleat work and how you managed to overcome it.
Can you give me an example of a time when you had manydifferent responsibilities to juggle and how you managed toprioritize your time?
Tell me about a time you had to compromise with yourcoworkers to achieve something.
When was the last time you had to work with others as ateam to accomplish something? Can you describe your roleand what you contributed?
Name the 5 things you should be doing in terms of the "body language" checklist?
Sit all the way back.
Make direct face contact.
Use hand gestures while speaking.
Nod head while listening
Lean in during conversation.
What is something that you do at the beginning of an interview to make a good first impression?
Strong hand shake, eye contact, smile
You should have what kind of mindset?
A growth mindset. Remind yourself of strengths and try avoid getting down on yourself.
Are jeans ever acceptable?
Yes, in certain workplaces, but they ought to be dark wash (no rips or fading), tailored fit (no bagginess or ultra-skinny styles), and usually paired with dressier items (structured blazer, clean shoes, and professional accessories).
What would you do if you made a mistake no one noticed?
What would you do if you were asked to perform a task you've never done before?
What would you do if an angry and dissatisfied customer confronted you? How would you resolve their concern
What would you do if you missed a project deadline?
How would you handle an unhappy client/customer?
What steps would you take if you disagreed with your manager’s decision?
How would you manage multiple tight deadlines?
How would you handle a high-stress situation?
What does leaning-in and eye contact communicate to the employer?
That you are interested and paying attention.
How should you treat everyone you meet on your way to the interview, before being invited in?
Politely and with respect.
What kinds of details should you be writing down (or noting in some other way) after an interview?
Facts about the type of company, time of day, and situation leading up to the interview.
When it comes to grooming, what are you watching out for?
Hair neat, nails clean, facial hair trimmed. Avoidoverly strong fragrances.
What is an employer looking for when it comes to the question, "Tell me about yourself"?
Don’t give your complete employment (or personal) history. Give a pitch—one that’s concise and compelling and that shows exactly why you’re the right fit for the job. (Elevator Pitch)
Why is it helpful to use hand gestures when providing answers?
You will appear more dynamic, animated, and it allows you to emphasize certain points more effectively.
Why is projecting the right attitude so important at the interview? What does this look like?
The employer wants to see that you are sincerely interested, that you are motivated, and that you will treat this job as more than a paycheque.
What are the three questions you should be asking yourself after an interview?
What went well?
What needs improvement?
What can I do differently next time?
What are the most important things when it comes to your clothes and what you are wearing?
Fit properly help you relax and project confidence.
Ironed, stain-free, and wrinkle-free.
Less is more. A watch, belt, or small piece of jewelry is enough. Avoid anything flashy.
Stick with neutrals (navy, black, grey, white) with subtle accents.
Name one strategy you can use to get more comfortable with the interview? Remember: your body language communicates how you are feeling, so what can you do to feel confident and comfortable in your own skin?
Walking, meditating, listening to music, practicing your interview on someone...There are many answers.
Just like body language, your tone of voice is very important especially when it comes to professionalism. Why? What is the employer hearing in your tone of voice?
Respect, interest, honesty, enthusiasm...We often make snap judgements not just on appearance, but on how someone sounds. Maybe you're just tired, but if your voice sounds monotone or you're not clear (perhaps you're talking to the floor), you will seem bored and unengaged.
What should you NEVER do after an interview, even if you felt you did really well?
Stop applying to jobs. Stop working on skills. Stop practicing for that next interview.