Preparing for an interview
What are interview appropriate clothes?
Professional attire: knee-length skirt, dress pants, button up shirts, blouse, clean shoes
What should you take with you to an interview?
A copy of your resume, cover letter, a notebook and pen, a positive attitude
What should you do following an interview with an employer?
Send a thank you note or email within 24 hours of the interview.
If an employer asked why they should hire you, what is the important information to include in your response?
Your skills and what you will bring to the company.
What can you do to make sure you are prepared to interview?
Research the company, identify strengths or aspects of the company that interest you to be able to discuss during the interview.
How should you wear your hair? Is facial hair allowed?
Clean and combed. Facial hair depends on the job you are applying for
How should you greet the interviewer?
A smile, eye contact and a firm handshake
What should you include in a thank you note?
Gratitude for the interviewer's time, the interviewer's name, why you are qualified, your interest in the position.
If an employer asks about your weaknesses, how should you respond.
Identify your weaknesses and explain how you are working to improve them.
Should you be prepared to ask questions to an interviewer? If so, why?
Yes, it shows you are engaged in the interview, you can determine if the company/position are a good fit.
When should you arrive for an interview?
15 minutes before
What should you not do while waiting in a waiting room for an interview?
Use your cell phone, chew gum, talk on the phone
What should you do at the end of an interview?
Stand, thank the interviewer and shake their hand.
What could you do instead?
How should you answer this question: Do you prefer working independently or on a team?
Do research on the company to ensure your answer fits what you and the employer are looking for.
What are 3 questions you could ask an employer?
Attire, what is company culture like, is there opportunities to grow, specific job requirements, what a typical day is like, their favorite thing about the company
When does an interview begin?
The second you walk through the door
What should you do if you don't understand what the interviewer is asking you?
Stay calm, ask them to clarify the question, ask questions to be sure you understand.
If you don't know the answer, be honest and express willingness to learn
What can you do if it has been 1 week or more and you still have not heard from the interviewer?
Call or send an email
How can you answer questions about a criminal record?
"Keep it simple, and emphasize the positive:
I understand that you have questions about my background. I assure you that I have learned from my mistakes and have corrected past problems. I have spent time training for this career path because I am more mature now and have a solid plan for my future. If given the chance, I will give your company 100 percent effort. I know you will not be disappointed if you hire me." (careeronestop 2014).
Should you be prepared to ask questions to the interviewer? If so why?
Yes, it shows you are engaged in the interview, you can determine if the company/position are a good fit.
What else should you do to improve your appearance?
Iron/steam clothes, wear minimal/no cologne or perfume, brush teeth
Name 3 questions you should be prepared to answer during an interview.
1.) Tell me about yourself.
2.) Why do you want this position?
3.) Tell me about a stressful situation you have experienced at your previous job and how you managed it.
4.) Strengths and weaknesses
Besides the employer, who should you contact after an interview and why (if you have not done so already)?
Your references to inform them that they may be getting a call from the employer.
How can you explain a gap in employment?
What's an example of an illegal interview question?
Age, birthplace, disability, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy