Interview Questions
Tell me about yourself.
Example Answer:
As you already know, my name is ___________ and I am a fairly recent graduate from ________ ___________ Secondary school. I have previous experience volunteering at _______ where I assisted by organizing products, stocking items, and overall general cleaning duties.
Cashier
Business casual.
Examples - shirt (button down, polo or blouse), dark socks and dress shoes or dark/neutral colored flats, professional skirt, dress slacks or dress with a jacket
What are some important things to have on the top of your resume and cover letter?
Your name, phone number, and email address
How early should you arrive for your interview?
What is your greatest strength?
Example Answer:
I noticed that the job offer listed attention to detail as a desirable skill for the position. I’d say that attention to detail is, in fact, my greatest strength.
Lawyer
Examples - suit and tie, blazer over dress shirt, dark dress pants, black dress shoes or neutral colored heels.
What is a formal and informal way to address the person you are sending your cover letter to?
Formal: Dear whom this may concern or Dear Ms/Mr ____________
Informal: Hi there or Hey man
Who can you ask to help you practice for an interview?
Parents, siblings, friends and other family
What is something you believe you could improve at?
(what is your greatest weakness?)
Example Answer:
In the past, I have sometimes struggled with confidence. It has been helpful for me to keep a list of the impact I have made on others I've worked with to better understand why I should be confident about my skills and unique talents. I have also made it a point to voice my ideas and opinions during conversations when I feel they are appropriate and will add value to the conversation.
Working in the kitchen
Men can dress in a sports coat, button down, and slacks.
Women can wear a button down shirt or blouse, and slacks or a skirt. Women can wear jewellery, but nothing that would interfere in a cooking demo.
Both: Make sure everything is neat and clean - and nothing is too revealing or too short.
What does a resume include?
A resume states the facts. The who, what, when, and how.
A resume should include your name, contact information, objective, education, work/volunteer experience, and your references (or stated available upon request) You can also include your skills that relate to the job positions you are applying for.
What are the 3 types of interviews, and what are 1 way to prepare for each
1. in-person
2. online
3. phone interview
Practice mock interviews, ask others to help you with your answers, review the job posting, do your research on the company, plan your outfit ahead of time, etc..
Why should we hire you?
Example Answer:
As a recent college graduate, I know that I'm lacking is career experience, however, the qualifications that I bring cannot be measured by traditional experience. After completing many different volunteer experiences and managing my work at school, I learned how to multitask and prioritize responsibilities. In your fast-paced organization, the ability to effectively prioritize is a significant component of success.
Lifeguard
Business casual.
Example - Slack or khakis, a skirt, and maybe a polo or nice blouse.
DON'T - swimsuit, flipflops, sunglasses
What does a cover letter include?
A cover letter provides an opportunity to explain why you are qualified for the job.
A cover letter should have your contact information, a salutation(greeting), an introduction to the hiring manager, information on why you are qualified for the job, a closing, and your signature.
What are 3 things to remember if you are doing an online interview?
Remember to dress appropriately, check your camera and mic ahead of time, sit in a clean/organized area to avoid distractions, have your space quiet, etc...
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Example Answer:
In five years, I would love to be an industry expert that others can come to for ideas, help and strategy. I’ve had amazing mentors and managers in my past positions, so I’d like to be able to provide similar guidance, potentially taking on a leadership role.
Receptionist
Business semi-formal to formal
Examples- Men should wear a white or pastel shirt, tie, dark socks, and dress shoes. Women can choose to wear a skirt or pantsuit - for both options, accompany the suit with a blouse, and closed-toe shoes.
Why are resumes and cover letters important in employment communication?
The cover letter and resume is your first introduction to a potential employer. Resumes and cover letters work together to represent you in the brightest light to possible employers. With a well-written resume and cover letter, you stand out which may get you an interview and then a good shot at landing a job.
What are 3 things to remember about preparing for a phone interview?
Dress appropriately (helps you sound more professional), tell your family that you have a phone interview and to assure you will be answering the phone, make sure your space is quiet, have notes nearby if needed, make sure your phone is charge and you have good reception, etc...