Preparing For Your First Job Interview

1. Preparing For Your First Job Interview

2. Learn about the company beforehand - Google it! Find out about its history (mission, values, etc.) - Look it up on Facebook and Twitter - Show off what you learned during the interview - This will give your credibility a boost - You will be able to ask intelligent questions about the company Do YOUR HOMEWORK LEARN THE JOB DESCRIPTION AS IF IT WERE YOUR OWN!

3. ON TIME = 15 MINUTES EARLY - This will give you enough time to check yourself in the restroom - Don’t arrive too early – this might annoy the interviewer - Map out your route (google maps, mta.net) - Have alternate routes ready - Know where you will park and what the building looks like (google street view) - Have the name and phone number of the person you will be meeting (in case of an emergency) Be on time!

4. Write down at least 10 interview questions you will likely be asked Sit down and practice with a trusted friend (or do it over the phone or video chat) Common interview questions: - “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” - “Why do you want to work here?” - “Why should we hire you?” - “Tell me about yourself.” Rehearse beforehand

5. How not to answer a question!

6. - Former supervisors - Teachers - People you’ve done work for (neighbors, church, etc.) Ask them before you put them down as a reference! - Ask what is the best way to contact them - Arrive at the interview with references ready (in case you are asked for them) Get solid references

7. Make a checklist! 1. ID/Driver’s License 2. Copies of resume (3) 3. Copies of cover letter (3) 4. References (letters, list of contact info) 5. Work portfolio (relevant to the job) 6. Print directions to the interview (in case your phone dies) 7. Bring a nice notepad/portfolio to take notes If you are asked for something you did not know you had to bring, make sure you get it to them ASAP! Bring necessary documents

9. Men Women - Blue, black or gray suit/sport jacket - Wear a tie, even if you will never wear one after you get the job - Shoes should be leather, clean and polished - Make sure your nails are trimmed and clean - Classic suit or simple dress with a jacket (blue, black, dark green, dark red, burgundy or gray) - Do not attempt to out dress everyone there - Avoid tight, revealing or trendy - Fingernails should be trimmed to a length that doesn’t threaten anyone’s life - Nail polish should not be flashy The impression you leave on the job every day will be added to your performance when the boss looks around for someone to promote.

10. Keep tattoos under your clothes Limit piercings to your ears No wild hairdos Body art

11. Social media

12. Use your body language to convey your confidence. Make eye contact and maintain good posture during the interview. Speak professionally. Don't ramble or use slang in your answers. Stay positive during the interview. Avoid complaining or bad mouthing previous employers or companies. Mind your hands. behavior

13. SITTING QUIETLY = NOT IMPRESSIVE Don’t ask difficult or sensitive questions Don’t make questions too generic This is where your research will pay off! Ask questions

14. Send a handwritten note or email thanking the interviewer for their time and consideration, as well as restating your interest in the position. (do this within 48 hours) If you don’t hear anything after one week, call to politely ask when they will be making a decision. Follow up

15. Develop a 25-second sales pitch that sings your praises. In business this is called an "elevator speech," a compelling overview of "why you?" that can be recited in the time it takes to ride an elevator. It should include your strengths, your experience, and what sets you apart from other applicants. Remember to sell yourself PICK ME! PICK ME!

16. Every interview is a learning experience. Even if you don’t get this job, when the next interview rolls around, you’ll be better prepared and more at ease, which will improve your chances of being offered the next job. And remember…