First Impressions
True or False: It is OK to chew gum in an Interview?
False: You should never chew gum in an interview
What should you plan on bringing with you to the interview?
Your resume (at least 3 copies), reference list, list of questions, a notebook and a portfolio (if applicable)
True or False: You do not need to hand the interviewer your resume at the beginning of an interview?
False: You should always hand the interviewer the most up to date copy of your resume and plan on giving a copy to anyone you meet during an interview.
You should ask for this at the end of the interview
What is a business card
When you should plan on showing up for the interview?
15-30 minutes but do not go in until 15 minutes before.
Give two examples of acceptable Female Business Casual Attire
Blouse/dress shirt, reasonable length skirt or trousers of a non-jeans material, informal dress with appropriate skirt length and blazer and nice shoes.
What are some of the ways that you can practice for the interview?
Ask a friend or family member to interview you, do it in front of a mirror, record yourself.
When answering "Tell me about youself', it is ok to be strictly personal in your answer?
NO! You should only speak about yourself in a professional manner.
This is a good practice to improve for the next interview.
What is assess yourself on how you did and what you could've done differently.
What are 2 things never to do while waiting for an interview
eating food, bringing friends/family, listening to music on cell phone, interrupting staff, anything inappropriate
What is an example of a red flag on your social media page that could concern an employer?
Criticism of a past employer, inappropriate language or pictures on posts
What should you do if you have tattoos or piercings for an interview?
Cover up tattoos if possible, remove piercings or use clear retainers if necessary and ask about their policy regarding tattoos and/or piercings
Share 3 verbal skills that you should be aware of in an interview.
Nervous run-on's (umm, like, stuff), voice modulation and tone, proper grammar, speaking clearly and using positive words and phrases.
This should be done within 24 hours of your interview
What is a thank you note
What are 2 factors that impact an interview?
Attitude, Image and Appearance, Verbal and Non-verbal and Job qualifications.
What is an example of positive body language?
Firm handshake, make eye contact, walk, stand and sit with your head up and back straight and have a pleasant facial expression.
What are some ways that you can research a company before an interview?
Website, mission statement, job description, ask around, reviews, linked-in
Share 4 non-verbal skills that you should be aware of.
Body posture, fidgeting, facial expressions, gestures and eye contact.
These are 2 things you should put in your Thank you note
What is restate your interest in the job and review your qualities again
Is it ok for the first question you ask an employer be about pay or benefits?
No, it should never be the first question. If you need to ask about pay/benefits it should only be when you are considered a strong candidate for the position.
What are two ways you can exhibit a good attitude in an interview?
Concentrate on being likable, demonstrate knowledge and interest in the position, project an air of confidence, demonstrate enthusiasm and perform your best at every moment.
What are 2 ways to prepare for an interview that can be sometimes overlooked?
Test run to interview site, make child care arrangements, eat a good meal beforehand, have gas in your car, get a good night of sleep.
What are 3 things that are inappropriate or illegal for an interviewer to ask during an interview?
Age, gender, race, sexual orientation, marital status, language, children, criminal record, national origin, religion or disabilities
Do this if you have not heard back in the time they told you
What is call to ask for feedback. This could be done either after a week or after the day or time they gave you in the interview.
True or False: You should ask for permission to write down notes during the interview.
True. It is polite to ask for permission and you should plan on writing down notes to review later.