Preparing for the InterviewPreparing for the Interview

Tip # 1: Learn All You Can Tip # 1: Learn All You Can About the CompanyAbout the Company

• Go online• Visit the company

Tip # 2: Gather Important Tip # 2: Gather Important DocumentsDocuments

• Multiple copies of your resumé• Copies of diplomas, awards,

certificates • Driver’s license• Social Security Card• Letters of Reference

Tip # 3: Know Where to GoTip # 3: Know Where to Go

• Drive to the interview site ahead of time

• Allow an extra ten minutes on the day of the interview

• If someone drives you, have them stay in the car

Tip # 4: Dress for Success Tip # 4: Dress for Success

Tip # 4: Dress for Success Tip # 4: Dress for Success

Percent of Employers Percent of Employers Negatively Influenced by:Negatively Influenced by:

Clothing

Handshake

Unusual Hair Color

Obvious Tattoos

Body Piercing

Unusual Hair Style

TattoosTattoos

The top six reasons both men and women gave for tattoo removal: • 58% just decided to remove it. • 57% suffered embarrassment. • 38% had lowered body.• 38% new job/career. • 37% problem with clothes. • 25% experienced stigma.

Body Piercing Body Piercing

TattoosTattoos

The reasons people get tattoos:• 44% wanted to feel unique. • 33% wanted to feel independent. • 28% wanted to bring attention to a particular life experience.

The researchers write that one out of four American adults aged 18 to 30 has a tattoo.

In both studies, the main reason for wanting to get rid of a tattoo was that people had a "shift in their identities," and wanted to do away with the past.

Tattoo: Good Idea or Not?Tattoo: Good Idea or Not?

Tip # 5: Edit Social Tip # 5: Edit Social Networking Sites & BlogsNetworking Sites & Blogs

• Do not post anything that would make a pastor, priest, or parent blush

• If you have inappropriate content, remove it before a job interview

• 45% of employers check-out applicants online.

Tip # 5: Edit Social Tip # 5: Edit Social Networking Sites & BlogsNetworking Sites & Blogs

Source: Cooper Anderson Talk Show airing March 6, 2012.

Tip # 6: Practice Common Tip # 6: Practice Common Interview QuestionsInterview Questions

• Tell me about yourself• Why do you want to work for this company?• What did you dislike about your previous job?• What are your strengths?• What are your weaknesses? • What are your future plans?• Describe a challenging situation and how you

overcame it.• What are you passionate about?• How do you handle stress?• Do you have any questions for me?

Tip # 7: Practice Your Tip # 7: Practice Your Introduction & HandshakeIntroduction & Handshake

Pleased to meet you, Mr. Smith. I am John Q.

Student.

Top 12 Characteristics Top 12 Characteristics Wanted in WorkersWanted in Workers

1. Report to work every time scheduled, on time, and ready to work.

2. Show initiative – do what needs to be done without being asked

3. Be well groomed and keep work station clean and neat

4. Treat customers politely and keep them happy

5. Concentrate on what you are doing6. Be honest

Top 12 Characteristics Top 12 Characteristics Wanted in WorkersWanted in Workers

7. Develop good communication skills – ask questions; have an outgoing, friendly personality

8. Be eager to learn new things about the job

9. Have a great attitude towards others and work

10. Get along with others11. Do quality work12. Follow the rules

Interview Practice QuestionsInterview Practice Questions