Job Interview Skills

1. Job Interview Skills 10 Tips to Help You Land That Job

2. Preparing to find a job • During March we will be exploring careers. • 7th grade will go on a Job Shadow • 8th grade will have Career Day • 9th 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.

3. Practice 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.

4. Dress 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.

5. Listen • 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.

6. Don’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.

7. Don’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.

8. Use 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.

9. Don’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.

10. Answer 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.

11. Ask 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.

12. Don’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.