Applications and Interviews Tips for Getting a Job

Applications  Students have the opportunity to fill out several applications.  This gives the student a chance to become familiar with different questions and formats.  Student gather information that is needed for applications. They have a chance to get references and their information.

Filling Out Applications  1. Always use back or blue ink when filling out an application  2. Check your directions carefully. Does the application ask you to “print”?  3. Read all the instructions before you fill out the application.  4. Give honest and complete answers to all items.  5. Answer all items that apply to you.  6. Do not leave blank spaces. If an item does not apply to you write N/A, which means not applicable. This will indicate to the employer that you did not forget to answer the question.  7. Spell all words correctly.  8. Job titles are very important list the specific position for which you are applying. Employers react negatively to the word “anything”.  9. Salary should usually be discussed in a personal interview. For that reason it is best to write “scale or commensurate with experience” in the space that request the salary you expect to earn.  10. Practice filling out a number of different types of applications. You will become familiar with the information required and increase your neatness and accuracy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Interviews  Get to the interview a little early. Never be late  Know the interviewer’s full name. Introduce yourself and give a firm handshake.  Ask questions, This gives you a chance to learn about the company and show the employer that you are interested.  Make sure you have good eye contact, posture, alertness, and body positioning.  A positive attitude is essential. Try to be friendly and enter every interview with an open mind.  Listen and be ready to answer the questions.  Dwell on the positive. If an employer asks about shortcoming explain and state how you can turn them around.  Learn how to relax during the interview. The more you practice and become familiar with the questions the easier this will get.

Do’s and Don’ts of Interviews  Don’t chew gum during the interview.  Avoid simple yes or no answers. Make you answers meaningful.  Don’t lie. Be honest when you answer your questions.  Don’t keep stressing you need for a job.  Don’t discuss past experiences that have no application to the job.  Don’t display overconfidence.  Don’t ask questions early in the interview about hours or pay.  Don’t be a know-it-all or a person that can’t take instructions.  Don’t be untidy in appearance.

Interview Questions Students should have answers prepared for the following questions:  What are your strengths?  Do you work better in a group or alone? Why?  How would you describe yourself?  Why should I hire you instead of another candidate?  How do you handle pressure?  What motivates you to put forth you greatest effort on the job?  Do you have dependable transportation and what is it?  What do you see yourself doing in the next five years?  If you have a problem with a coworker how would you handle it?

Interview Skills  Students participate in mock interview.  The more practice they get the more the become confident with the process.  The students are critiqued during the mock interview on the following: Eye contact Posture Voice tone Body movement