Interview Prep
What is the most appropriate type of clothing to wear to a job interview?
business casual or professional attire
examples: black jeans, closed toe shoes, clothing without holes
What should you do with your phone before you go into an interview?
Turn your phone on silent and keep it in your pocket/bag
“Tell me about yourself.”
I’m a high school student who enjoys [school subject or hobby], and I’m excited to start gaining work experience and build my skills.
“Why do you want to work here?”
I like what your company does, and I think it would be a great place to learn and grow.
(Bonus! Include something specific about the job that you're into)
Is it a good idea to wear strong perfume or cologne to a job interview?
Usually not - this is typically considered inappropriate/distracting
How early should you be to your interview (in minutes)?
10-15 minutes early
A good way to show you're prepared is to bring this item to take notes.
A notebook and pen
"What type of work environment do you prefer?"
You can be honest! And this should align with the environment where you're interviewing
"I like a fast paced environment that's never boring"
"I like a quiet environment where I can get my work done"
I enjoy playing sports, spending time with my family and friends, reading, listening to music, exploring new places in the city, what else?
(Keep it PG)
You should avoid using this type of language in an interview.
swear words & filler words (um, uh, wait wut)
Name an appropriate greeting with an interviewer
A firm (not too loose or too strong) handshake shows confidence
Name some hygiene/grooming things you should do before your interview
Examples: Shower, brush teeth, clean clothes, what else?
"What is a strength of yours?"
Examples: "I'm reliable, I always show up on time."
"I have a positive attitude, I try to create a good vibe when I'm working & learning."
"I'm a fast learner!"
"I'm a team player, I work well with others."
"I’m comfortable talking to people and explaining things clearly."
"I'm creative, I like coming up with new ideas."
"I'm organized which helps me manage my time well."
"How do you handle conflict at work?"
Remain calm
Use communication skills to find a solution
Check-in with my supervisor
What should you consider about your social media platforms before applying for jobs?
Is my social media either private OR clean/professional?
This type of body language with the interviewer shows confidence and professionalism...
Eye contact!
Name one way to be sure that you will be on time to your interview
Set an alarm to wake up on your phone
Set a reminder on your phone
Tell your friends & family that you have an interview
Make a plan for your transportation to the interview (check traffic or bus times)
Experience: "This would be my first job, so I don’t have work experience yet—but I’m eager to learn and pick things up quickly."
Shy: "I'm naturally a bit shy at first, but I warm up quickly once I get to know people and feel comfortable."
Perfectionism: "Sometimes I spend too much time making sure everything is perfect, but I’m learning when good is good enough."
“Tell me about a time you solved a problem.”
Example: In a group project, a team member wasn’t contributing. I suggested we assign specific tasks and deadlines, which helped us all stay on track.
Name a coping strategy you could use if you're feeling nervous for an interview
Listen to music, practice questions with friends or adults, take deep breaths, go for a walk, what else?
What should you research about the company before your interview?
Examples: What they do, the companies mission/values, the location, what else?
This document should be brought in clean and updated form, even if you already submitted it online.
Resume
“Do you have any questions for us?”
Yes! What do you enjoy most about working here?
What would a typical day look like for someone in this position?
A good way to end an interview is to say this.
“Thank you for your time” or “I look forward to hearing from you”
What are some examples of "negative body language" that might make a bad impression with an interviewer?
Slouching, crossing arms, rolling your eyes