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Interviewing tips

 

Interviewing Tips TURN OFF YOUR CELL PHONE -don't just
silence it. 
Turn it OFF

  http://www.oaklandcc.edu/careerfocus/Fall2001/fa01-9.htm  What Schools forgot to tell you -- Personal Networking tips.
 A Must read for Seniors

 

Interviewing Tips  ( to view a sample employment application) click on link  http://www.quintcareers.com/employment_application.pdf

Dress nicely, nothing attention seeking. NO JEANS, low cut tops, flip flops or hoodies

Bring 2 copies of your resume with you.
any letters of recommendation. and 2 copies of your reference contact information.  A typed sheet with names of people who can vouch for your good character including how to contact (phone numbers & addresses, and email addresses)
 

Have I said  TURN OFF YOUR CELL PHONE BEFORE THE INTERVIEW--Don't just silence the phone, but turn it OFF.  Better yet leave your phone in the car.

Write down 2 questions on an index card and bring it with you. It's a visual reminder to ask the questions at the end of the interview. It makes youlook organized and you don't have to think of a question off the top of your head when you are asked you if you have any questions.  YOU MUST ASK QUESTIONS, it shows your enthusiam and eageness to learn

Bring a completed sample employment application of past and present places of employment and school information to help you complete the application. Bring the name and telephone number of a neighbor for a personal reference.

Put all of the above in a manila or duo tang folder. Bring a pen that works.

Spit out your gum.

Maintain good eye contact throughout the interview.

Shake hands with the interviewer before and after the interview. Firm, but not painful.

Typical Interview Questions:

1. Why should I hire you?  (Because I am a quick learner, I have the customer skills to do the job, I have handled cash before)

2. Please tell me a little about yourself.

3. Tell me what skills you have (word processing, web design, CAD, excellent telephone skills, reliable, organized…).

4. Why do you want to work here?  Tell the employer it's close to home, you are saving for a goal (car, college)

Give more than yes/no answers. Expand with examples tell stories

More Tips…

NEVER LIE OR EMBELLISH UPON YOUR SKILLS OR BACKGROUND. THE Employer
 WILL CATCH YOU IN IT EVERY TIME!!!

If you have relevant experience describe it and explain how you think it relates to the job you are applying for.

Practice interviewing with family or friends to help you be less nervous. Ask for feedback.

Stages of the Interview

Try to learn about the company before you go - be prepared. Jump on the Web!

(1.) Most interviews start with a hand shake then there is "Small talk"- approximately 2-3 minutes.

Look around the office for awards, diplomas or photos and use these as a basis for learning a little about your interviewer. Small talk sometimes helps decrease your anxiety.

(2.) Opportunities to exchange information - approximately 10 minutes.

During this phase of the interview they want to see how well you fit into the position they are interviewing for. During this step you need to convince them that you are the person they are looking for. Sell yourself, but again, DO NOT LIE! "I have these skills (list them) and I am willing to learn other skills on the job." I think this experience relates to this job...

Ask your 2 questions now.

Sample questions can include:

  • May I have a more specific job description?
  • What qualities are you looking for in your new hires?
  • What are the challenges of this position?
  • What might a person in this position like most/least?
  • When will I be notified of your hiring decision?

(3.) Closure - approximately 3 minutes.

Express your interest in the position.
Ask any additional questions you might have at this point.
Summarize your strengths and skills.
Clarify the hiring process - "will you call or send me a letter and notify if I did not
get the position?"

(4.) After the interview:

Don't be hard on yourself - interviews are difficult.
Analyze how it went - what could you do differently next time?


Send a thank you letter. Write about a specific incident from the interview - it
helps them put your name and face in front of the employer.  Plus it shows that you are polite and
it reflects that you have good character.

Things to Remember Once You Land the Job

(1.) Always present great Customer Service:

v Ensure your written and verbal communication is clear, concise and error free. Keep body language positive.

v Always be kind, professional, diplomatic and respectful.  Dress appropiately

v Refrain from gossip.

(2.) Be a Team Member:

v For professional growth you will probably have to go to uncomfortable personal places.

v Remember there will always be some level of conflict and politics in a job place

v Never expect that someone else will do your work for you or will tell you how you are doing in your position.

v Function like if you left tomorrow your work will be able to be continued.

v Sometimes you will not be told information for business, not personal, reasons.

v You may not like everyone you have to work with but remember you DO have to work with them.

(3.) Miscellaneous Tips:

v You will use math in almost any profession.

v To move to the next level-do the job you want before you have it.

v Change is ever present, get used to it.

v If you dread going to work, you are in the wrong position.

v In any new position, you must earn your credibility.

v Generally it takes 3-6 months to feel comfortable in any position.

v Make sure you do your best the second you walk into the door. It will pay off and get noticed.

v Sometimes those who talk the loudest get heard the most, right or wrong.

v Remember your timeframe may be different than others, yours is usually shorter.

v Perception is Reality

Created by Shira Lurie for HRAGD (Human Resources Association of Greater Detroit)

 

[Career Center] [Career Planning Process] [EDP/Career Cruising] [Career Pathways] [College Bound/Apply] [ACT SAT MME] [Scholarships] [Jobs & Volunteering] [Co-op Jobs] [OSTC] [Job Shadows] [Connect EDU] [Skills quiz] [Websites] [Course Description Book] [Interviewing tips] [NCAA eligibility] [Transfer College Credits] [Articulation Credit] [Workkeys/NCRC] [MME $4,000] [AP info] [4 Year Plan worksheet] [Keytrain]