The Basics
How many minutes should I arrive before my interview?
10-15 minutes beforehand to mentally prepare.
What kind of clothes should you wear to a job interview?
You should wear clean, neat, and professional clothing. This could be a button-up shirt, dress pants, or a nice blouse.
Tell me about yourself.
Introduce yourself.
Focus on education, work experience, skills, and interests related to the job.
Talk about your strengths, what kind of work you like, and anything you’ve done before (volunteering, school, previous jobs).
Keep it short (1–2 minutes).
How do you handle stress or challenges?
Show that you stay calm and look for solutions.
Mention any tools or strategies you use (deep breathing, asking for help, staying focused).
✅ Example: "I take deep breaths and break big tasks into smaller ones. If I need help, I ask a supervisor."
What motivates you to do a good job?
Talk about what makes you want to succeed — ex: helping others, being part of a team, learning new things, or feeling proud.
✅ Example: "I like helping others and feeling proud of what I do. It makes me happy to know I’m doing my best."
I should bring copies of this to my interview
Resume
How should you sit during an interview?
Sit up straight with your feet on the floor and hands in your lap or on the table. This shows confidence and respect.
Why do you want to work here?
Mention something you like about the company or job (example: helping others, working with your hands, learning new skills).
Avoid saying “because I need a job” or “for the money” — focus on your interest.
✅ Example: "I like working with people, and this job lets me help customers and be part of a team."
Why should we hire you?
Focus on your strengths, motivation, and reliability.
Be confident but polite.
✅ Example: "I’m hard-working, on time, and eager to learn. I’ll give my best every day."
What kind of schedule are you looking for?
Be honest about when you're available (part-time, full-time, mornings, afternoons, weekends).
It’s okay to say if you have restrictions, just be clear.
✅ Example: "I’m available Monday through Friday in the mornings. I’m open to part-time work to start."
What do I do at the end of an interview?
Firm handshake and say thank you for your time.
What should you do with your hands during the interview?
Keep your hands calm — resting on your lap or the table is best. Try not to fidget, tap, or cross your arms.
What are your strengths?
Talk about qualities you’re proud of, like being dependable, kind, organized, or a fast learner.
Give an example if you can.
✅ Example: "I’m very reliable — I always show up on time. At my last volunteer job, I never missed a shift."
What type of work environment do you like best?
Be honest about what helps you succeed (quiet, busy, team setting, structured).
Make sure it matches the job you’re applying for.
✅ Example: "I do well in places with clear rules and tasks. I like knowing what’s expected each day."
How do you handle changes in routine or schedule?
Be honest about how you deal with change.
Mention if you need support or if you can adjust.
✅ Example: "I like having a set routine, but if there’s a change, I can adjust if I know ahead of time. It helps if someone explains the new plan."
It is a good idea to do this about the company/Job before the interview
Research the company and job position
Is it important to make eye contact?
Yes, eye contact shows you are paying attention and interested. If full eye contact is difficult, try looking at the person’s nose or forehead instead.
What is one of your weaknesses?
Be honest, but choose something that won’t hurt your chances.
Always add what you’re doing to improve.
✅ Example: "I sometimes get nervous when meeting new people, but I’ve been practicing by talking to more people every day."
How do you handle feedback or criticism?
Show that you’re open to learning.
Say that you listen, stay calm, and use feedback to improve.
✅ Example: "I listen to feedback and try to do better. I know it's a way to grow."
How do you stay focused at work?
Share any strategies that help you stay on task (checklists, quiet space, timers, asking for reminders).
✅ Example: "I use a checklist and ask for reminders if I need them. I like to finish one task before moving to the next."
Most important thing to do before interview day
Practice, prepare or rehearse
What should you do if you feel nervous and start fidgeting?
Take a deep breath, place your hands on your lap, and try to stay still. It’s okay to be nervous — just do your best to stay calm.
Tell me about a time you worked on a team.
Think of any group experience: work, school, volunteer, or community activities.
Describe what you did and how you helped the group.
✅ Example: "At the community center, I helped set up tables with a team. We worked together to finish everything on time."
How do you stay organized at work?
Talk about how you keep track of tasks or manage time (checklists, schedules, asking for reminders).
Show that you take responsibility.
✅ Example: "I use a checklist to remember what I need to do. I also like to ask for a clear list at the beginning of the day."
Do you have any questions for me?
Always say something — it shows interest.
Ask about training, work schedule, or what a typical day is like.
Ask around 2-3 questions
✅ Example: "Can you tell me what a typical day looks like in this job?"
✅ Or: "Will there be training to help me learn the tasks?"