1. Chapter 5 Interviewing for a Job

2. Before the Interview  First impression is VERY IMPORTANT.  Practice answering questions out loud.  Evaluate what clothing would be appropriate to wear.  Evaluate own personal hygiene. Make improvements where necessary.  Assemble needed materials—extra resume, list of questions for you to ask, samples of work or a portfolio.

3. What to Do When You Get There  Arrive ALONE 5-7 minutes early for the interview.  When meeting interviewer...smile, extend hand for firm handshake, make eye contact, and introduce yourself.  Don’t sit until told to sit and in the seat they tell you to sit in.  If the interviewer leaves the room...sit still don’t move around or snoop.

4. Commonly Asked Questions  Tell me a little about yourself  What are your strengths? weaknesses?  Why should I hire you?  If a former employer or teacher were to describe you using three adjectives what would they be?  What was your attendance like at your last job? During high school?

5. At Conclusion of Interview  Stand, shake hands again, thank the interviewer.  Go home and write a follow up letter/note in own handwriting to thank interviewer for the opportunity and tell him/her anything you may have forgotten to tell in the interview. Send that day!

6. Personal Hygiene Tips  Shower Daily. More if necessary.  Wash hair as needed.  Use deodorant.  Clean & clip fingernails.  Wear makeup sparingly.  Brush teeth.  Shave.  Check for “bats in cave”.  Wear clean, pressed, hole & tear free clothes.  Wear jewelry sparingly.  What else?????

7. Questions YOU can ask  Is this a new position or am I replacing someone?  What would a typical day on the job be like?  What expectations do you have from the person you hire?  Is there a dress code for this position?  Is there potential for advancement?  When would the position begin?  How will I be evaluated?

8. Questions that Employers CAN’T ask  Are you single or married?  How old are you? (they can ask if you are over 18)  Do you have children or are you planning on having children?  Do you have a spouse or boy/girl friend?