Staff Writer
Once
you turn sixteen, you are eligible to apply for a job. One of the hardest tasks
in the process is the initial interview. Many people find going to an interview
a stressful experience because they don’t want to give the wrong impression. Here
are some tips to help you succeed during the interview.
Pre- interview tips: Before the interview,
think about the questions they might ask you.
One of the most difficult questions to answer and most often asked is, Tell
me about yourself? This question is difficult to answer for most people since
it is so broad. The key to this question is giving them enough information
about you but not over informing them. You should tell where you are from,
something about your education, and the short version of why you are perfect
for this job. Many people find it hard to answer questions about themselves, but
it is important to know generally what you want to say before going into an
interview so practice. Here are common interview questions for which you should
prepare answers before your first interview.
1.
Why
do you think you would do well at this job?
2.
What
has been one of your biggest achievements?
3.
Tell me about a time when you had to take
initiative?
4.
Tell me about a time you faced an unreasonable
deadline and how you handled it?
5.
How do you handle stress and pressure?
6.
What
are your goals for the future?
7.
What
are your strengths and weaknesses? (Think of three to five for both)
8.
Tell
me about a time when you had to work in a group.
9.
How
did it go and what role did you play?
 |
| Jumiors Jordan Koonts and Matt Sholtis dress for AOIT mock interviews. |
What you should wear to an interview: Men should
wear a formal button down shirt with a tie, dress pants, and dress shoes. Women may wear dress pants or a dress and a
small pair of heels. If you decide to wear a dress make sure it is not revealing.
You want to look professional while dressing appropriately for the job for
which you are applying. This doesn’t mean if you are applying for a job at a
fitness center, that you should go to the interview in fitness clothes.
Initial Greeting: The key to a
successful interview is making a good first impression. Act like you already
have the job, because if you appear to be confident and collected, they will
remember you that way. If you have a
skill that is unique, make sure you let them know so you will appear to stand
out from others. The handshake is another important part of making a good
impression. Tips to a good handshake:
1.
Firm
but not bone crushing.
2.
Shake
2 or 3 times and let go. You don’t want it to be awkward.
3.
Make
eye contact.
Tips you should look out for when you
are in the hot seat:
One of the worst things you could do is slouch. Instead, open up your shoulders
and sit up straight. This will help you feel more confident and look more put
together. Even if you are nervous, you don’t want to show it by fidgeting. This
includes tapping your pencil or foot, or cracking your knuckles and fingers. When
speaking, be careful not to use filler words like “um” and “so” often. Cell
phones have also become a problem while interviewing. Make sure your phone is
turned off.
With
more practice, you will gain more confidence, and help eliminate bad habits. Utilize
these tips to help you have a successful interview.
