Interview Skills - Introduction
Completion requirements
UNIT 3
For many students, the job interview process can feel stressful. Part of this stress can arise because you don’t know what to expect. With some preparation in advance, you can increase your chances of having a successful interview and earning the job.
Think of an interview as a conversation. It is an opportunity for you to get acquainted with a potential employer and the company in general. From their perspective, they are trying to get a sense of who you are and whether you would be a good fit. In
this conversation, you need to represent yourself as being prepared and confident that you are the right person for the job.
In being prepared, you need to do your homework. Search online for information about the company. If they aren’t online, but are located in your community, stop by and check them out in person. What do they value? For example, a family restaurant hiring
servers will value customer service and a comfortable atmosphere. They will be looking to hire people who can relate well to others and are friendly with children. In the interview, you would want to share your willingness to work with others
and provide a welcoming environment to all patrons.
There are common interview questions that employers will ask. There are videos provided in this section to advise you how to effectively respond to these questions. Take the time before an interview to plan how you would answer these standard questions.
It is important that you plan to arrive ten to fifteen minutes early, bringing extra copies of your resumé and your references’ contact information.
Dress appropriately. A good rule of thumb is to wear an outfit that a grandparent would find attractive and appropriate. You can put away the bow ties, gentlemen; a nice dress shirt, slacks, and dress shoes will do. Ladies, aim for conservative and professional. Unless you’re applying for a job in a surf shop, flip flops are never appropriate for an interview (and yes, your interviewer will notice!).
Dress appropriately. A good rule of thumb is to wear an outfit that a grandparent would find attractive and appropriate. You can put away the bow ties, gentlemen; a nice dress shirt, slacks, and dress shoes will do. Ladies, aim for conservative and professional. Unless you’re applying for a job in a surf shop, flip flops are never appropriate for an interview (and yes, your interviewer will notice!).
Compare this video on good interview skills with the "epic fail" interview video you viewed in the Watch section of this unit.