JSR
What does "JSR" stand for?
Job Start Ready
How would you answer in an interview if asked, "Tell me about yourself."?
Employers want to know about you professionally and personally. Talk about your relevant work experience and add positive phrases, such as “I am ambitious and dedicated to work” or “I am a fast learner.” Avoid private details, such as “I am 50 years old” or “I have 3 kids.”
Why do you want to work here?
Tips: This is where researching the company’s values and mission ahead of time comes in handy. Tailor your answer to the company by mentioning how your values match theirs and how you’ll fit in with the company culture.
How will you research the employer?
Company website, employees, friends
What clothing items will you wear to your job interview?
Slacks, button up/ collared shirt, tie, suit, dress, dress pants, belt, etc.
How would you answer in an interview if asked, "How do you handle making a mistake on the job?"
You would take accountability for your actions, fix the mistake/conflict and learn from it so it doesn’t happen again. You would also inform your supervisor and everyone who needs to know. When describing a conflict, be honest without putting your supervisor or coworkers down, or mentioning something that would disqualify you from the job.
Do you prefer to work alone or in a group?
Tips: The ideal answer is both because most jobs require you to work alone and in a team. For example, “I can focus and be responsible on my own, but I like collaborating with coworkers.”
What time will you arrive at the interview?
10-15 minutes early
Give an example of what your professional voicemail sounds like.
Example: Hello, you have reached....Please leave me a message, and I will return your call as soon as possible.
Give an example of 2 hard skills and give an example of 2 soft skills
Hard skills: Technical, certification, admin
Soft skills: Personal traits (hard working, dependable, organized)
What was your favorite job?
Tips: Choose a similar job, internship, volunteer opportunity or any professional experience that demonstrates how the skills you have are transferable to the job on hand.
When researching the company, what type of information do you want to learn about the company?
- Mission statement
- Specific roles of the position you are applying for
- Who is interviewing you
- Company values
- Recent events
Give 2 examples that demonstrate "commitment to work".
Attendance, being on time, effort, being prepared, planning ahead
What is a question you can ask the interviewer at the end of the interview?
What is your favorite/least favorite part about working here?
What would my day look like?
What pay rate are you looking for?
Tips: Find out the usual pay for the job, and request a pay rate within that range. For example, “I understand that you pay between $14-15/hour, and I think that’s fair” OR “I understand that you start at $15/hour, and I’m wondering if you would be open to $18/hour based on my experience.” If you don’t know the pay rate, it’s ok to ask: “What do you usually pay someone for this work?”
What not to say in an interview?
- Personal information that is not relevant to the job or your qualifications
- Private information that may lead to employer discrimination (political affiliation, religion, pregnancy)
- If you’re asked whether you have children or are planning on having children, it’s ok to say that you don’t feel comfortable answering that question and mention that you have a flexible schedule
Name 3 of the 7 interview skills that will be observed during your mock interview.
- Able to get ample opportunity to practice interviewing
- Able to answer a question by telling story from resume
- Recite 30 second elevator pitch
- Show they've researched an employer
- Practiced answering the convict question
- Map route to interview location or practiced joining virtual platform
- Able to get printed copies of resume
How would you answer in an interview if asked, "Why did you leave your last job?"
Be honest but don’t put your supervisor, coworkers, or company down - or try to make them look bad so you look better. Talk about a specific quality that this job has or that your previous job didn’t have. For example, “Your company values learning and growth in employees and I’m looking for a place where I can continually improve my skills.”
How do we answer the conviction question?
Tips: If you decide to respond, confirm your conviction, then redirect the conversation to your professional goals. Explain very little about the actual crime. Show remorse but focus on accountability for your actions and growth. NOTE: Fair Chance Hiring/Ban the Box makes this question illegal in many states. Know your rights!
What is an elevator pitch?
- A way to explain what you bring to the table in 30 seconds
- Tailor your message to the company and job position