Job Seeking Skills

1. Job Seeking Skills 201.02 Participate in a job interview

2. Arrange for an Interview • Name and Position of the interviewer • Correct pronunciation • Write down information • Appointment • Call for interview • Plan what you want to say • Speak clearly and distinctly • Explain reason for calling immediately • Short phone conversation • Don’t try to sell yourself

3. Timing is everything • Arrive a few minutes early • Know directions • Be sure of transportation

4. Conversation with a Purpose • Employer wants to find out about you • You want to find about the company • Let the interviewer lead the discussion

5. First Impressions Count • Look like you are a good employee • Avoid dress that calls attention • Not too tight, too short, too baggy • Skin, hair, nails clean and neat • Avoid excessive perfume/cologne • Tic Tacs are good • Introduce yourself right away • Firm handshake

6. Who Would You Hire?

7. Positive Attitude • Take advantage of questions to provide information • Take samples of your work • Mention further education • Ask about training opportunities • Show letters of recommendation • Qualifications and abilities • Arrange in your mind

8. Filling out a Job Application • Print neatly and clearly • Be accurate – never lie • Use a blue or black ink pen • Take one with you • Read and follow instructions • Watch spelling and grammar • Re read all information for accuracy

9. Filling out a Job Application • Do not leave blank spaces • Draw a line through a space or write NA • Have previous work experience written down • Have names and addresses of references • Have education information • Have drivers license and/or social security numbers

10. Do Not • Criticize past employers • Discuss hours, salary, benefits until close of interview • Try too hard to make and impression • Be yourself • Argue with the interviewer • Plead how much you NEED the job

11. In the End • Leave promptly • Thank the interviewer for their time • Write a “Thank you” letter immediately after interview