Interview tips?
butterflylover527
Posts: 940 Member
in Chit-Chat
I have an interview soon and I'm feeling up-prepared. I've never had a job before so this is all new to me.
Any tips? Or maybe some Q & A that they might ask?
Any tips? Or maybe some Q & A that they might ask?
0
Replies
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Umm.. being prepared is the most important part, but since you are not....the typical questions..
- What are your weaknesses? (try to turn this into something positive, like how you're overcoming them)
- Give a situation where you had to take leadership of your peers
- Where do you see yourself in 5 years
- Why should we hire you
- Do you have any questions? (ALWAYS have a question)0 -
Are you sure you're old enough to be on this site. You have to be at least 18.
Most folks typically work by the time they are 16...
My guess is you are from a privileged family or not old enough to use this site.
About.com is a great resource for interview tips regardless. Good luck on your search.0 -
I've taken (and given) plenty of interviews over my career. There's one major bit of advice that helps me that I learned from sitting on the other side of the table, and it's this...
The interviewer is on your side at the start. They are bored, tired, and most likely fed up with interviewing. They WANT you to be the right candidate, just so they can close their notepad and say "finally found the one!"
So the odds are in your favor as you walk through the door. All you have to do is not tip them the other way.
And all your skills, experience, education whatever... yes they matter but not as much as you'd think. The interviewer is really looking for one thing:
"Would this individual be a good fit for my company and/or my team or department within the company."
In other words, they're looking for someone bright, cheerful, friendly, affable, easygoing, laid back, and with that little something behind the eyes that says 'I'm smart and I learn quick'. That quality will trump ANY skills, education, or experience in my book.
One other thing. Know about the company - if you walk in knowing the bigger names, the history, the type of product or service etc. - you're way ahead of the competition. Google is your best friend.0 -
Definitely know a weakness. (I always say that I am the type of person that pays too much attention to detail and that i have to step back and look at teh grand picture sometimes. a weakness, but paying attention is definitely a strength too!)
Research the company. Go to the website. Make notes. I have found they ask, "Why company XYZ for you?" If you find things you like on their website, use those.
Overdress! Go above and beyond and make sure you look schnazzy. I always go with a skirt and suit jacket with a nice top. I did this whether it was for an internship or mcds!
Smile and look positive! Nobody wants a gloomy gus as an employee.
This is one of the hardeset questions I have had that I was unprepared for:
"Rank these in order of importance, 1. Salary 2. Growth/Opportunities 3. Job Atmosphere"
Bring copies of your resume and cover letter!!! It saved my butt a couple times!
And remember, be calm!
Good luck.
Love, Meg0 -
Always have questions. They always ask you if you have any at the end of an interview. What I try to do is pick out something that the interviewer said during the interview and ask a question about that. I get complimented on my "good attention to details" for that
Also make sure that you dress nice. No funky nail polish colors, heavy makeup, etc.
Bring a copy of your resume. They don't always have it printed and it makes for a good reference.0 -
It really depends on what kind of job you are interviewing for.
I've done everything from retail to corporate and how you dress and what they expect at all of them vary.
Message me with more details.0 -
My favorite tip: Repeat the question that is asked, so you have some time to think of your answer. Avoid at all costs using "uh, er, I mean, like..." as your pauses. Silence is better than filling it with babble.
Example:
Q: Give me an example of a difficult situation that you were able to resolve.
A: An example of a difficult situation I helped resolve is the time when...0 -
Are you sure you're old enough to be on this site. You have to be at least 18.
I'm 18 but thanks for your concern0 -
wear navy blue
0 -
Are you sure you're old enough to be on this site. You have to be at least 18.
Most folks typically work by the time they are 16...
My guess is you are from a privileged family or not old enough to use this site.
About.com is a great resource for interview tips regardless. Good luck on your search.
I never had my first job until I was almost 19. I was involved in a LOT of groups and activities including sports, church groups and Sea Cadets all through high school and never had time for one. Don't be so quick to judge someone. 0 -
What? I know plenty of people who got their first job in their 20's... and they definitely weren't from "privileged families".Are you sure you're old enough to be on this site. You have to be at least 18.
Most folks typically work by the time they are 16...
My guess is you are from a privileged family or not old enough to use this site.
About.com is a great resource for interview tips regardless. Good luck on your search.0 -
When asked if you have any questions..... ask them:
What are the possiblities of advancement? Shows that you want to stay with the company and advance further...0 -
I've taken (and given) plenty of interviews over my career. There's one major bit of advice that helps me that I learned from sitting on the other side of the table, and it's this...
The interviewer is on your side at the start. They are bored, tired, and most likely fed up with interviewing. They WANT you to be the right candidate, just so they can close their notepad and say "finally found the one!"
So the odds are in your favor as you walk through the door. All you have to do is not tip them the other way.
And all your skills, experience, education whatever... yes they matter but not as much as you'd think. The interviewer is really looking for one thing:
"Would this individual be a good fit for my company and/or my team or department within the company."
In other words, they're looking for someone bright, cheerful, friendly, affable, easygoing, laid back, and with that little something behind the eyes that says 'I'm smart and I learn quick'. That quality will trump ANY skills, education, or experience in my book.
One other thing. Know about the company - if you walk in knowing the bigger names, the history, the type of product or service etc. - you're way ahead of the competition. Google is your best friend.
Thank you!! I just found out a few moments ago that I have an interview next week too - the job's a level up in the career ladder, more pay and much farther away than my last job. Will heed in the advice now 0 -
A lot of companies use behavioural interviews:
"Tell me about a situation where you faced a challenge, and how you overcame that challenge"
"Tell me of a time where you needed to work in a team, and had a difficult team member. How did you manage to work with this person?" - good one, they ALWAYS ask this one. School stuff can be good examples. If you don't have an example, MAKE ONE UP for what you would do when faced with this.
Be confident - speak at the same pace & volume as your interviewer - if they are using that volume, they are comfortable HEARING at that volume. If they are using that speed, they have set the tone for the interview. Actively LISTEN... don't just hear. Pay real attention to what your interviewer says, & ask questions. Paraphrase what he/she said into your own words, to ensure you have understood & relay it back to him/her so he knows you've been paying real attention.
Don't be too personal. Sit up straight in the chair, and try not to fidget. It shows confidence, and self-possession... even if you have a million butterflies threatening to escape through your belly button. The trick is not to kill the butterflies... but to make them fly in formation. Butterflies are just your body's adrenaline kicking in & telling you that you're in a situation where something new & different is happening & your body is trying to ensure you are alert and paying attention. It also speeds up your thought processes, so be careful about speaking at the same speed as the interviewer, because it may be hard to accomplish if you're super excited.
Above all, don't be afraid to PAUSE & think about your answer. It doesn't mean you're stupid.
I'm sure you'll do fine :happy:0 -
I've taken (and given) plenty of interviews over my career. There's one major bit of advice that helps me that I learned from sitting on the other side of the table, and it's this...
The interviewer is on your side at the start. They are bored, tired, and most likely fed up with interviewing. They WANT you to be the right candidate, just so they can close their notepad and say "finally found the one!"
So the odds are in your favor as you walk through the door. All you have to do is not tip them the other way.
And all your skills, experience, education whatever... yes they matter but not as much as you'd think. The interviewer is really looking for one thing:
"Would this individual be a good fit for my company and/or my team or department within the company."
In other words, they're looking for someone bright, cheerful, friendly, affable, easygoing, laid back, and with that little something behind the eyes that says 'I'm smart and I learn quick'. That quality will trump ANY skills, education, or experience in my book.
One other thing. Know about the company - if you walk in knowing the bigger names, the history, the type of product or service etc. - you're way ahead of the competition. Google is your best friend.
This.
Hope the interview goes well for you!0 -
Do some research on the company because some of the most common questions are
"why do you want to work for us"
"What do you know about our company"
The more you know about the company the more it shows your interest.0 -
You'll want to get as prepared as possible. At my organization, we ask a lot of situational questions. For example:
1. Tell us about a time you had conflict with a peer. How did you resolve it?
2. What would you do if you were asked by the President of the company to do something unethical?
You'll also want to research the company. If you ask pointed questions that show you know a lot about them, it will show you are serious. Asking something like, "Last quarter, ABC Company introduced product X on the market, which added 3 jobs to your workforce. What is the company's vision for future growth?" sounds much more impressive than, "What products do you sell?"
Also make sure that you don't smell like smoke or perfume and that you are dressed professionally. And send a thank you card to the people that interview you.0 -
In other words, they're looking for someone bright, cheerful, friendly, affable, easygoing, laid back, and with that little something behind the eyes that says 'I'm smart and I learn quick'. That quality will trump ANY skills, education, or experience in my book.
One other thing. Know about the company - if you walk in knowing the bigger names, the history, the type of product or service etc. - you're way ahead of the competition. Google is your best friend.
Completely agree with this! Sell your willingness and ambition.. that can set you apart from the others. Always have a couple of questions as the end of the interview. Even though you think it's a given, always wrap up the interview stating your interest in the position.0 -
Definitely know a weakness. (I always say that I am the type of person that pays too much attention to detail and that i have to step back and look at teh grand picture sometimes. a weakness, but paying attention is definitely a strength too!)
Research the company. Go to the website. Make notes. I have found they ask, "Why company XYZ for you?" If you find things you like on their website, use those.
Overdress! Go above and beyond and make sure you look schnazzy. I always go with a skirt and suit jacket with a nice top. I did this whether it was for an internship or mcds!
Smile and look positive! Nobody wants a gloomy gus as an employee.
This is one of the hardeset questions I have had that I was unprepared for:
"Rank these in order of importance, 1. Salary 2. Growth/Opportunities 3. Job Atmosphere"
Bring copies of your resume and cover letter!!! It saved my butt a couple times!
And remember, be calm!
Good luck.
Love, Meg
This is the best advise! And double check, triple check your resume. You would be surprised at how many people have typos in their resume. A perfect resume in terms of spelling and grammar speaks to your professionalism and attention to detail.
Good luck!0 -
Are you sure you're old enough to be on this site. You have to be at least 18.
Most folks typically work by the time they are 16...
My guess is you are from a privileged family or not old enough to use this site.
About.com is a great resource for interview tips regardless. Good luck on your search.
Maybe she got married right out of high school, has a husband who is suddenly disabled with 10 kids to feed.
Have a proudest moment ready too and, take my advice on this one, test drive your outfit. Popping buttons on the front will pop during the interview.0 -
**Almost** all of you had really good information, thanks! I feel a lot more prepared 0
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Are you sure you're old enough to be on this site. You have to be at least 18.
Most folks typically work by the time they are 16...
My guess is you are from a privileged family or not old enough to use this site.
About.com is a great resource for interview tips regardless. Good luck on your search.
Maybe she got married right out of high school, has a husband who is suddenly disabled with 10 kids to feed.
Have a proudest moment ready too and, take my advice on this one, test drive your outfit. Popping buttons on the front will pop during the interview.
Close, I've been recovering from brain surgery lol0 -
Smile. Relax and be yourself. Think about the question and answer it. If you get flustered or tense, take a deep breath and smile. If it is noticed, just tell them what you did...."stress reduction adds to my attention to the issues at hand."0
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Make the interview feel more like a conversation. This will show your true self and help the interviewer see you in a positive light. It usually works for me. More people should really do this because interviewing can be boring and tedious. Make it fun and stay calm!
Good luck!!!
Also ask them how they like the company and/or their position. Not only are they interviewing you for the position but you are in a way interviewing their company to see if you would want to work there.0 -
I always found that asking questions like:
"What are some challenges I might face with this position?"
"Why is this position available? Are you expanding the department?"
It should that you are genuinely interested in your place with the company and not just ready to take whatever job falls into your lap (even if you really are! haha)
Good luck! I have an interview today and I'm hoping it goes well! These tips were great! 0 -
Are you sure you're old enough to be on this site. You have to be at least 18.
Most folks typically work by the time they are 16...
My guess is you are from a privileged family or not old enough to use this site.
Don't assume things about people. You don't know anything about their life. It's possible he/she's been sending out resumes for the past ten years & never gotten an interview. You don't know why he/she hasn't had a job. He/She could have a disability, and not be able to work most student positions.
Or he/she could be like me. I had to care for my cancer-ridden mother from the time I was eight years old until she died when I was twenty-four. I didn't have time for a job because when you were probably playing with your friends, or participating in school activities, or hey, just being an ordinary eight-year-old, I had to learn to do: laundry, dusting, vacuuming, dishes, cooking, gardening, change bedding, scrub bathrooms, & all sorts of things most young people don't have to do. I'm currently 29 years old, & JUST NOW going to university.
But you know what? I wouldn't change a THING about my life. I was there for my family when I had to be, & I wasn't selfishly running out at age 16 to get a job so I can have money to go to the movies with my friends, or waste on the latest new fashions. I had more important things to do with my time.
I think that your post was rude and judgemental. You have NO IDEA what this person's life has been like, and no reason to post something so disgustingly condescending. The poster MUST 16 & has no business being on this site. You have no idea how ridiculous you sound. I think that in the future, if you don't have anything supportive to say to someone, you should just BUT OUT.0 -
Are you sure you're old enough to be on this site. You have to be at least 18.
Most folks typically work by the time they are 16...
My guess is you are from a privileged family or not old enough to use this site.
Don't assume things about people. You don't know anything about their life. It's possible he/she's been sending out resumes for the past ten years & never gotten an interview. You don't know why he/she hasn't had a job. He/She could have a disability, and not be able to work most student positions.
Or he/she could be like me. I had to care for my cancer-ridden mother from the time I was eight years old until she died when I was twenty-four. I didn't have time for a job because when you were probably playing with your friends, or participating in school activities, or hey, just being an ordinary eight-year-old, I had to learn to do: laundry, dusting, vacuuming, dishes, cooking, gardening, change bedding, scrub bathrooms, & all sorts of things most young people don't have to do. I'm currently 29 years old, & JUST NOW going to university.
But you know what? I wouldn't change a THING about my life. I was there for my family when I had to be, & I wasn't selfishly running out at age 16 to get a job so I can have money to go to the movies with my friends, or waste on the latest new fashions. I had more important things to do with my time.
I think that your post was rude and judgemental. You have NO IDEA what this person's life has been like, and no reason to post something so disgustingly condescending. The poster MUST 16 & has no business being on this site. You have no idea how ridiculous you sound. I think that in the future, if you don't have anything supportive to say to someone, you should just BUT OUT.
AMEN!!0 -
Also, if they say to you, "Tell me a bit about yourself" This is NOT an invitation to tell them about how you grew up, where you're from or any kind of family drama or about your amazing Star Wars collection. lol
They are looking for your work traits and characteristics and what you feel you can bring to the table for the job.
Good Luck!! I start work term interviews next week and I'm nervous too and I've been the interviewer and interviewee many times!!0 -
Make the interview feel more like a conversation. This will show your true self and help the interviewer see you in a positive light.
^This is great advice. As you spend more time in your job than at home you'll soon realize that authenticity is the key to a happy career. If you are authentic with the interviewer, you will induce them to be authentic with you too. Your job offer will then be based on a genuine connection rather than some falsified "look at me in my fancy clothes with my fancy answers and fancy resume" scenario. Yeah you can win jobs with fancy clothes and answers but if the authentic connection wasn't there in the first place, there's a chance you'll be miserable in the position. Remember that you are interviewing them to see if they deserve your time, skills and dedication, just as much as they are interviewing you. You are not in a beggars position.0 -
Got a nasty note from my snarky comment in this post. Here's their message and my response for all to see.
My snarky comment in this post was because the OP had no photo or anything on their profile. There's been issues on this site with people posting fake profiles, or not using this site for the best reasons.
Sorry to anyone I offended.
Here's the message for all to read:
First of all I'm not assuming anything.
She has no photo on her profile and it looks very blank to me (and there are folks on here that are here for shady reasons, or have fake profiles).
Not trying to be rude.
My Mom also had cancer, so I get where you are coming from.
I actually think your note to me is rude.
I've also worked since I was 15 (legally) and before that on a farm (child labor).
So you have no idea who you are talking to.
No need to be defensive.
You judged me with your statements. "I was there for my family when I had to be, & I wasn't selfishly running out at age 16 to get a job so I can have money to go to the movies with my friends, or waste on the latest new fashions. I had more important things to do with my time."
Actually, I ran out to get a job so I would have money for college, and strong resume. I also grew up 1/2 hour from a grocery store so a job was necessary to pay for a car and other expenses.
Those of us that grew up in the country did not get a job to run out and go to the movies or the mall. It was out of necessity. I grew up in one of the poor areas of my state.
So, there's no need to needlessly judge me when clearly you got it all wrong.
'
Sorry about your mother. Cancer sucks. I do indeed know all about that with my own Mother.
Sad, isn't it. You got me all wrong. I'm a loving, caring human being. I volunteer and work full time. I mentor a college student through a women's leadership program. I volunteer to teach children's programs at a farm.
This time, your well-meaning but nasty note struck the wrong person. YOU have no idea anything about my life.
Previously aviendha_rj wrote: Don't assume things about people. You don't know anything about their life. It's possible she's been sending out resumes for the past ten years & never gotten an interview. You don't know why she hasn't had a job. She could have a disability, and not be able to work most student positions.
Or she could be like me. I had to care for my cancer-ridden mother from the time I was eight years old until she died when I was twenty-four. I didn't have time for a job because when you were probably playing with your friends, or participating in school activities, or hey, just being an ordinary eight-year-old, I had to learn to do: laundry, dusting, vacuuming, dishes, cooking, gardening, change bedding, scrub bathrooms, & all sorts of things most young people don't have to do. I'm currently 29 years old, & JUST NOW going to university.
But you know what? I wouldn't change a THING about my life. I was there for my family when I had to be, & I wasn't selfishly running out at age 16 to get a job so I can have money to go to the movies with my friends, or waste on the latest new fashions. I had more important things to do with my time.
I think that your post was rude and judgemental. You have NO IDEA what this person's life has been like, and no reason to post something so disgustingly condescending. The poster MUST 16 & has no business being on this site. You have no idea how ridiculous you sound. I think that in the future, if you don't have anything supportive to say to someone, you should just BUT OUT.0
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