J OB I NTERVIEW S KILLS 10 Tips to Help You Land That Job

P REPARING TO FIND A JOB During March we will be exploring careers. 7 th grade will go on a Job Shadow 8 th grade will have Career Day 9 th grade will have Reality Town Even the smartest and most qualified job seekers need to prepare for job interviews. Why? Interviewing is a learned skill, and there are no second chances to make a first impression.

P RACTICE GOOD NON - VERBAL COMMUNICATION It’s about demonstrating confidence: Stand up straight Make eye contact Connect with a firm handshake The first nonverbal impression can be a great beginning- or quick ending- to your interview.

D RESS FOR THE JOB OR COMPANY It is important to know what to wear to an interview and be well groomed. If possible, find out about the company dress code before your interview. Best dress helps make a good impression. Clean appearance and groomed hair are just as important as how you dress.

L ISTEN Your interviewer is giving you information about the job and company. Pay attention so you don’t miss a major opportunity. You may find something you can ask about later when you are asked if you have any questions about the job or company.

D ON ’ T TALK TOO MUCH Saying too much could be a big mistake. Prepare your thoughts before your interview so you don’t ramble when answering interview questions. Prepare by reading the job posting and matching your skills to the job requirements. Stick to that information.

D ON ’ T BE TOO FAMILIAR The interview is a professional meeting, not an opportunity to make a new friend. It is important to bring energy and enthusiasm to the interview and ask questions, but don’t overstep your place as a candidate for a position.

U SE APPROPRIATE LANGUAGE You should always use professional language during the interview. Avoid inappropriate slang words or references to race, religion, or politics. These topics or swearing could send you out the door very quickly.

D ON ’ T BE OVERCONFIDENT Attitude plays a key roll in your interview success. There is a fine balance between confidence, professionalism, and modesty. Even if you’re putting on a performance to demonstrate your ability, overconfidence is as bad, if not worse, as being reserved.

A NSWER QUESTIONS CAREFULLY When an interviewer asks for an example of a time when you did something, they are looking for a sample of your past behavior. If you fail to relate a specific example, you are missing an opportunity to prove your ability and talk about your skills. You also fail to answer the question.

A SK QUESTIONS When asked if they have any questions, most candidates answer, “No.” Wrong answer! Ask questions that show interest in the job or company. This is also a time to find out if this is the right job for you. The best questions come from listening to what you’re asked during the interview and asking for more information.

D ON ’ T APPEAR DESPERATE Avoid giving the “Please, please hire me” approach which will make you seem less confident. Remember the three C’s of interviewing: Cool Calm Confident You know you can do the job, make sure your interviewer believes you can, too.