Before an Interview
What are interview appropriate clothes?
Always freshly washed or new clothes. General it will be business casual (dark pants (no leggings unless under a dress), dress shirt or nice sweater (3/4 zip - no logos), nothing showing too much skin.
You want to be comfortable in what you are wearing. Your focus should be on the interview/interview.
A business says to apply online. Where can you apply for a job online?
Applying online means to use the internet to complete the job application.
You can apply for a job on employment search websites such as Indeed, Job Bank, Monster. You can also apply on the company website under the "careers" tab.
If your interview starts at 9AM what time should you arrive at the interview?
Between 8:45 AM and 8:50 AM (latest). It is in good practice to show up at least 15 minutes before an interview. This way you can collect your thought and it shows you are punctual.
Who can you network with? (List three)
Family, friends, members of the community, neighbors.
In Canada, the Human Rights legislation prohibits employers from discriminating against individuals with disabilities. (True or False)
True.
How should you wear your hair?
Brushed.
Long Hair - put it up - to many people end up playing with their hair during interviews and it can be a distraction for both your self and the interviewer.
Short Hair - get it cut/ groom it/ wash it- this way it won't look like bed-head.
Who are some good references to use on a resume?
References may include; coaches, community members, former teachers/professors, previous coworkers/supervisors.
What should I take to my interview?
1) A smile/ positive attitude
2) Your resume
*Leave your cell phone in your car or on silent...NOT on vibrate.
Where can you find job postings/opportunities? (Provide four examples)
1) Career/ company websites
2) Job boards/ Job ads (newspaper)
3) Job fair
4) Volunteering
5) Social Media (facebook)
6) Cold calling
7) Completing an application with no posting
Timing can make a difference when disclosing a disability. (True or False)
True
Is facial hair allowed?
Generally you want to be clean shaven to go to an interview. However, this does depend on the job - usually customer service rep vs. non customer service rep.
When completing an application, is it okay to have my phone out?
Yes, you should not feel uncomfortable to have your phone out when completing an application. We usually need to obtain information from our phones such as reference contacts, utilize spell check and to access an electronic copy of your resume.
Is it that important to ask questions at the end of an interview? Why or why not?
YES!
It shows the employer you are committed, engaged and interested in the company, as well as, the position you are applying for.
It also gives you a better idea of whether or not the job is a good fit for you
Why is a job search log important?
This will help organize and identify who you contacted, when you contacted them and when to follow up. It can show how committed you are to finding a job.
If you have a disability that is not visible to others, it's better not to disclose it. (True of False)
What should you make sure you have ready, a day before the interview? (List FIVE things)
Location of the interview
Bus/driving route
Gas/ a ride planned out/ money for the bus
Make sure you have eaten (even if its something small),
Your resume
Questions for the interviewer
What you are going to wear
A good night sleep
References
Provide three tips when completing a job application.
1) Read the form first
2) Be neat and clear in your writing
3) If you have a question, ask.
4) Take two forms
5) Be positive
List three ways you can prepare for an online interview.
1) Do a test-run with your computer/ video chat software
2) Pick the perfect spot (quiet with good lighting)
3) Eliminate distractions
4) Sit up and dress professionally
Why is it important to be aware of the hidden job market?
Because stats are showing that almost 80% of jobs are in the hidden job market. Which means it can take you a lot longer to find the job you are looking for, by simply relying on career websites.
You are obligated to disclose your disability to the entire company.
False
Name three things you should do while getting ready for an interview? (think hygiene)
Put on deodorant, brush your teeth, clean short finger nails, bathe, brush and fix hair, lay out clothing.
Should you complete all questions on an online application even if it requires the same information that is on your resume?
YES! Some resumes are not ATS compatible and therefore will not generate into an online application, which means it will have to be inputted manually.
It is important that all fields and questions are completed because companies used ATS software to weed out unqualified candidates with "search words."
This means your application could be overlooked if a field is not completed.
Provide an example answer to the question, "What is your greatest weakness."
As long as it is a positive spin on a weakness that you are aware of and can also communicate how you are working on it.
What are some important points to hit when cold calling? (List two)
1) Your name
2) Why you are calling
3) Interest in the company
4) Ask for advice
5) A little bit about yourself
Employers have a right to know what your disability is, what accommodations you need and how it will affect their day to day operations.
False.