Carroll County Advisement Program Interviewing skills Carroll County Advisement Program

“The origin of interviews”

Arrive Early for your interview Get there about 15 minutes early Make a trial run the day before to make sure of the location Being punctual is very important to employers

Turn off your cell phone Resist the temptation to look at your phone if you are in the interviewer’s presence. Employer concerns about teens who constantly check their phones: Safety violations Low productivity Poor customer service

Dress for success Business Casual Attire for Young Men: Business casual dress is usually appropriate when applying for a part-time or summer job. Business Casual Attire for Young Men: Khakis pants or dress pants Collared shirt Business Casual Attire for Young Women: Nice blouse or sweater Skirt of appropriate length or dress pants Don’t Wear: Athletic shoes Excessive cologne/perfume Clothes with holes or wrinkles

Make a Great First Impression Offer firm handshake Make eye contact Give a warm, confident smile Address the interviewer as Mr. or Ms. Exhibit energy and enthusiasm Demonstrate a positive attitude Be courteous and attentive

Show interest in the job Explain reasons the job interests you by making references to the: Job responsibilities Work environment People with whom you would interact Ask a few questions at the end of the interview about the job: Nature of work Training Supervision Clientele Timeline TIP: Don’t bring up pay.

Know your Strengths Become familiar with the job description and be able to say how you meet many of the job qualifications Be prepared to describe situations where you have used your strengths to get tasks done If you have not had many jobs, use academics, school activities, sports and volunteer work for examples Tip: Research and review common questions and answers for interviews

Follow up after the interview Send a thank you letter to everyone who met with you thanking them for their time. Send your letter within 24 hours of the interview. Reiterate your interest in the job and the company. Highlight your relevant skills. Mention anything you wished you had said, but didn't, during the interview. Keep your thank you letter short.

Summary Research the company and the job description before the interview. Arrive early to the interview. Turn off your cell phone. Make a great first impression. Show interest in the job. Know your strengths and weaknesses. Follow up after the interview by sending a thank you letter.