Job Readiness Program

H OW TO P UT Y OUR B EST F OOT F ORWARD A PPLICATIONS AND I NTERVIEWS

Your first impression will be your application! Completion Accuracy Truthfulness Grammar/Punctuation Answers (i.e., answer the question asked)

 Whether an employer believes you are a good fit for their organization is influenced by their perception of you as a professional  50% of the time, employers determine whether a candidate will be hired based on their initial impression

 How you look and what you wear shape the interviewer’s perception of you  Research shows that 75% of a person’s perception is based on appearance  Dress in conservative clothing: nothing tight, low cut, short, oversized (baggy), torn, etc.

 Athletic wear and shirts with logos should not be worn during any phase of the hiring process  This includes even when going to the company to complete an application or ask questions

 Dress slacks should be worn with a belt and shoes  Dress suit should be navy, black or gray, preferably with one - five buttons  Wear long or short sleeved shirts with a tie

 Avoid capris or cropped length pants as these are not appropriate for the interview Shoes should be professional. That means:  No tennis shoes, sneakers, or flip flops  Heels should not be open- toed or exceed 3” inches in height  Avoid shoes that resemble evening wear

Wear dress blouses or tops that are modest in appearance Coordinating blazers or dress jackets lend a more professional look to sleeveless tops Dresses and skirts should be of appropriate length with moderate splits and vents

SOCIAL MEDIA DO’S AND DON’TS  Do Google Your Name and Check What’s Online There's a ton of information that can tell employers a lot about you online including tweets  Don't Forget Your Facebook Privacy Settings You don’t want a third party to be able to view your photos and posts.

I NTERVIEW P REPARATION

 Getting the interview means you’ve passed the first hurdle  During this stage of the hiring process, it is extremely important that you make a good impression  Preparing for the interview will enable you to do just that!

 Having a successful interview is a matter of preparation and knowing what is expected of you  Failure to prepare for the interview will adversely affect your opportunity to secure employment

Do your homework Research the company and position Know your skills and how they benefit the employer Obtain the interviewer’s name and contact number Know where you are going Determine the length of time it will take to get there Consider making a trial run before the interview Take into consideration parking issues and/or obstacles

Find at least 3 professional references Identify former supervisors, colleagues and/or instructors Obtain their permission beforehand Verify their names, addresses, job titles and phone Plan to go ALONE

B EFORE Y OUR S CHEDULED I NTERVIEW Prepare responses to commonly asked interview questions such as: What are your strengths and weaknesses? Why do you want to work here? Tell me about yourself. Conduct a mock interview Practice answering difficult questions

 Discuss with one other person why it is important to be able to articulate your strengths and weakness. Learning Task

Understand what is really being asked Answer the question briefly, in a non- damaging way Address the real concern by presenting your skills

Check your appearance before entering the building Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early

Notify the receptionist of your arrival In many cases the receptionist is your first point of contact - your first opportunity to create a good first impression Bring necessary documentation Valid ID, social security card, references, and extra copies of your resume Bring a portfolio/folder and pen to the interview The employer may require that you complete additional paperwork

Be aware of your initial greeting Introduce yourself and shake the interviewer’s hand Smile and maintain good eye contact Be friendly and likable Stay poised watch your body language Speak clearly and audibly avoid slang and inappropriate language Give the employer a reason to hire you Know your key skills Show supporting documents SELL YOURSELF!

Do not forget to turn off your cell phone Do not eat or drink during the interview avoid bringing coffee or soda into the interview area Do not chew gum Do not wear body piercings, and cover any visible tattoos

Prepare a set of questions to ask the employer Examples: What are the job duties and responsibilities? What are the most difficult aspects of the position? What are my opportunities for advancement? When do you anticipate making a final decision about this position?

Address any outstanding questions Close the interview on a positive, upbeat note Recap your interest and desire for the position Thank the interviewer for his/her time and indicate that you look forward to hearing from them Don’t leave the interview without asking the following questions: If I have any additional questions, may I contact you? What is the best method to contact you?

 Don’t forget to send a friendly thanking the interviewer for their time and consideration  Restate your interest, commitment and unique qualifications for the position Don’t delay, do this immediately following the interview!!!

First impressions can be made when you complete the application! Dress for Success for your interview - appearance is important! Look good and sound informed! Study the organization - be prepared to ask questions Be prepared to answer questions about yourself You have impressed your interviewer… now provide the names of others that can provide good references Send a thank you note or letter – within 24 hours

Learning Task