OMG I got an interview now what?

So, tell me a little about yourself. Do’s -Describe things about yourself that relate to the position you are applying for. -Some interests and hobbies are also great because it’s a great conversation starter. DO NOT -Tell your life story. - Ramble (think about this one)

2. Why are you looking for (or why did you leave you last job)? Do Talk about your career or future goals and how the job fits well with it. Do not Talk about the money (you can hide this by talking about future goals about your career instead)

3. Tell me what you know about this company? Do’s Research the company and find out what sort of things they are proud of . Eg) http://www.mcdonalds.ca/ca/en/careers.html Do not MAKE UP FACTS (this is very frustrating and an automatic turn off for employeers)

4. Why do you want to work at X Company? Relate it to the last question Find out how you can benefit the company and how it can benefit you in PERFECT harmony DO NOT Talk about the discounts or free stuff

5. What relevant experience do you have? Make sure you think about this question PRIOR to the interview Relate things you have done in your past (work, school, extracurricular, volunteer etc) that DIRECTLY relate to the position If you have little relevant experience you can always talk about your People skills DO NOT Forget to connect your description of the experiences to the job. Common misstep for students “At school I was involved in Bramarama. That is a really fun camp where we go up to a camp for a week and learn a lot of good leadership skills…….(interviewer looks at you)….yeah.. So that’s my experience.”

6. If your references were here, what would they say about you? Do Talk about your positive qualities (think of the personality trait survey) Be humble (I am a very hard worker so I hope that they would mention that vs. THEY WOULD SAY IM AWESOME!) Do not Try to avoid anything negative here. STAY POSITIVE

7 and 8) What is your greatest strength 7 and 8) What is your greatest strength? What is your greatest weakeness? Do mention skills such as hardworking, focused, driven etc. DO NOT MENTION things such as I have the highest ONLINE SCORE for halo!!!! For weakness If you're asked this question, give a small, work-related flaw that you're working hard to improve. Do not - Say something very negative without a way you are working on improving it

9) Let's talk about salary. What are you looking for? WARNING WARNING WARNING This is a difficult one that they often ask! Do If it is your first job mention that you understand it is a minimum wage pay and you greatly appreciate the experience If you have had work experience mention that you had minimum wage before and talk about any promotions and raises you were given which may qualify you for a higher pay DO NOT GIVE A DOLLAR VALUE DO NOT OVER ESTIMATE THE AMOUNT eg) ONE BILLION DOLLARS!

10) Are you good at working in on a team ? Do Talk about many experiences you have had working as a team (team sports, the role you play in group work, extracurricular etc) Mention that you work well both in a team and also independently DO NOT Forget to mention the independent working too

Some more to practice What is your greatest accomplishment? Is there anything else you would like to tell me that I missed in the interview? Do you have any questions for me?

Mark your partner’s rubric Add honest comments about things they did well and ways they can improve Remember criticism is often hard to hear so be nice (not like Ms. Kalwaney the big meanie!) 