School is coming to an end, and summer is on the way. Do you know what that means? It’s time to apply for jobs and make some SHMONEY! Sounds easy right? Here’s the catch. In order to get the job, you have to win your interviewer’s heart!
So here’s a checklist to help you perfect your job interview!
DRESS TO IMPRESS
First impressions are everything, so make sure you look the part. Make sure to dress appropriately for the job location you are applying for.
Even if a store seems laid back, do not arrive dressed too casual. You want to show the interviewer that you made an effort for your “meeting.”
BRING A PEN
As simple as this sounds, it could honestly make or break you! This will show the hiring manager that you came prepared and interested, rather than “I stumbled last minute and am disorganized.” Showing the employer that you have thought ahead will make you stand out.
RESUME COPIES
This is one of my favorites! Bringing resume copies puts the PRO in professional. Not everyone has a resume, nor do many people spend time or effort making sure they have a detailed one.
So taking the time to print copies for the employer helps them have a better understanding of your experience. Plus, it looks pretty cool to snatch them out of a laminated folder, if I do say so myself. #BOSSMOVES
LEARN ABOUT THE COMPANY PRIOR TO INTERVIEW
Here goes a short story time. Learn from my mistakes folks. Two years ago I applied to a stem cell research office. I wanted to be an assistant manager. The fancy title had me hooked and I thought I was prepared. BOY, WAS I WRONG! Let’s just say half way between the interview, the manager asked me, “Do you know what we do here?” ** CRICKET CRICKET ** I was so embarrassed; I had no clue what they did there.
Long story short, the manager gave me a lecture on the value of learning a thing or two about the company you plan on applying for, ESPECIALLY if you want to be a manager. And guess how the story ends? I didn’t get the job.
But it served as a valuable lesson and something I always think about when I apply for jobs.
QUESTIONS
So interview has come to an end and the employer asks, “Anything you would like to ask me?” Now here you have a decision. Say no, and cut the interview short. OR have some questions prepared that shows the employer you are just as interested in the job as they are in hiring a future employee.
Here are some good ones:
- What do you expect from me as an employee of this company?
- What are some challenges, if any, that you could see someone with the position I am applying for, facing?
- What would you say separates a decent employee to an excellent employee?
Good luck at your next job interview! You got this!
