Employability Attributes
What are two ways that you can present a 'professional look' at work?
- Shower, comb your hair, and brush your teeth regularly.
- Wear clean and presentable clothes.
- Do not eat or chew gum while working.
- Wear only lightly-scented perfume or cologne.
What are two examples of 'nonverbal communication'?
- Eye contact
- Facial expression
- Hand motions
- Tone of voice
What considerations will help you feel more satisfied with your job?
When the job matches your interests, skills and life goals.
What can you do ahead of time to feel more relaxed and speak with more confidence during an interview?
Rehearse answers to common interview questions, like "tell me about yourself" and "why are you interested in working for our company?"
True or False? Setting a goal automatically means that you will achieve it.
False. You need to put in effort and stay focused and committed to achieve goals.
Why do retailers care that their employees demonstrate 'employability attributes'?
Because entry-level associates represent the company brand and must provide quality customer service.
How does feedback from supervisors and coworkers help you to improve your technical and interpersonal skills?
It helps you understand what you're doing well, and what you could work on. BUT you need to put it into action to really improve.
A 'job description' describes a job's details and expectations. Where are you likely to find a job description online?
Posted on a company website, a job board, or on social media.
What is an example of a question you may ask at the end of an interview?
"How would you describe an average day on the job?"
"When and how will I be evaluated?"
"When will you make the hiring decision?"
"Why do you like working here?"
The "S" in SMART stands for: Specific. How does this help you when defining your goals?
It makes sure the outcome or desired result of the goal is clear.
What does the term 'integrity' mean?
Telling the truth, taking responsibility for your actions, and doing the right thing (even when no one is watching). It helps you establish trust and credibility.
What are two ways to demonstrate teamwork in a retail setting?
- Help coworkers solve work related problems (when you've finished your own tasks)
- Provide emotional support to coworkers
- Don't gossip about customers or coworkers
- Always show your coworkers and supervisor respect
What is the term for your list of contacts who can give you career advice and act as job references?
A network (e.g. friends, relatives, previous coworkers and supervisors, teachers, and mentors).
During an interview, what do your answers to questions help an interviewer understand?
What you've accomplished in the past AND how you're likely to perform in the future.
The "M" in SMART stands for: Measurable. How does this help you when defining your goals?
Choosing the number (#) and/or percentage (%) change that you're aiming towards will help you to more accurately determine your progress towards your goal.
What are two ways an entry-level associate demonstrates that they are 'reliable'?
- Arrive on time
- Communicate schedule conflicts ahead of time
- Behave consistently
- Complete assignments on time
- Follow directions and store policies
Use your knowledge, skills and creativity to brainstorm potential solutions to the problem.
After that, choose the solution that you think will work best, and take action to test your solution.
What are the main goals of a high quality 'elevator pitch'?
Explain in 30 seconds who you are, what you do, what you can do for the listener and provide a clear call to action.
What is an important follow-up step after your interview?
Within 24 hours of the interview, send a thank-you email that mentions something you learned during the conversation and reiterate how your skills will help the employer.
The "A" in SMART stands for: Achievable. How does this help you when defining your goals?
It ensures that your goal or timeframe is reasonable, and not too difficult.
How would you describe a 'positive attitude'?
It is a way of thinking or feeling about something and is usually played out in your behavior (e.g. optimistic, encouraging, helpful or upbeat).
What are the three elements of 'time management'?
1) Organize: write a daily to-do list and make you best effort to complete the items on it
2) Prioritize: rank tasks in order of importance
3) Focus: concentrate on the task you're doing
An online job application is a legal document that provides employers with what four things?
1) Your employment history
2) Your education history?
3) Your contact information
4) Confirmation that the information you've provided is true and accurate.
After a successful interview, a hiring manager may check your social media accounts for what?
Negative comments about businesses, stalking or harassing behavior, inappropriate words and pictures, and excessive pessimism.
The "T" in SMART stands for: Time-Based. How does this help you when defining your goals?
It establishes a definite date and/or time for achieving the desired result.