Training topics
Job Interview Prep Checklist
How DO I prepare for an interview
Study the JOB DESCRIPTION
Research the COMPANY - Check out their website. Know what the company SELLS or know WHAT THEY DO!
Test drive or GoogleMap your route the night before to make sure you know how long it takes to get there
Prepare your clothes and resume the night before and in the morning focus on yourself
ALWAYS arrive 15 minutes early!
PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE (interview questions)
What DO I bring to an interview?
Resumes, references, and a pen
A smile and fresh breath (Bring mints if you’re worried, no gum. Chewing gum during an interview is not professional)
What NOT to do:
Arrive late
Check your phone
Forget your pen
Share too much
Forget your resume
LIE
Chew Gum
Forget references
What to wear
What DO i wear?
Always be well-groomed
Dress appropriately for the workplace (if in doubt, ask!)
Check your appearance before your interview starts
Don’t comb your hair in the waiting area.
ALWAYS keep your shoes on.
Its okay to wear jeans, but NEVER wear jeans with holes
No high heels or stilettos
See acceptable examples (to the right and below)
Smart Casual and Business Casual Attire are Acceptable to Wear
Business Formal is acceptable when interviewing for a professional position. However, YOU CAN ALWAYS wear business formal if you want to. Dress to Impress!
If you're interviewing for a position as an Auto Mechanic, Chef, Server, Manufacturing, or a Warehouse position, it is acceptable to wear a work uniform to the job interview.
Sample Interview Questions and Answers
1. Tell me about yourself. (tip: Keep it short and related to your work or volunteer experience)
Example: I have customer service, cashier, and food handling experience and I enjoy working in a retail environment.
2. What are your strengths? (tip: Provide 1 or 2 and give an example)
Example: I’m organized at work and at home, and I communicate well with others. For example, I always ask my supervisor if there are any other tasks to complete before I leave for the day.
3. What are your weaknesses? (tip: Keep it brief and don’t give too much information)
Example: Sometimes have I trouble asking for help.
4. What are your career goals? (tip: Keep your answer brief and vague)
Example: I would like to learn all there is to know about (insert the job you’re applying for) about the retail business so I can advance my career.
5. What skills and experience do you have that will help you be successful at this job? (tip: use this opportunity to toot your own horn)
Example: At my last job, my supervisor told me that nobody cleaned the backroom like me. He said that I was efficient and diligent. Also, I love talking to and helping others. I was recognized for going above and beyond when I was a Cashier. I would bring those skills to this job.
6. Tell me about your proudest achievement. (tip: think of something! Never say, “I don’t know.”)
Example: Graduating from high school. Example: I earned my Food Handlers Certification.
7. Give me an example of a time when you had a conflict at work (or school if no work experience). Tell me how you managed it. (tip: If you can’t think of a conflict, try to give an example of what you would do if you had conflict with someone)
Example: I was at work and a co-worker of mine began to throw food in the kitchen area. I think he was trying to start a food fight. I asked him to stop because I didn’t want to be involved with that kind of behavior and he did stop. But if he didn’t, I would have involved my supervisor because I valued my job.
8. Define what it means to you to be a team player.
Example: To work well with others and do your part by completing your tasks first and then assisting others if needed.
9. Define what it means to you to be a leader.
Example: Someone who models good behavior.
Example: A person with a positive attitude, and works hard to get the job done.
10. What three-character traits would your friends use to describe you? (tip: Keep it professional)
Example: I’m friendly and outgoing and I help others in need.
11. How would your supervisor describe you? (tip: if you’ve never had a supervisor, tell them how an adult in your life would describe you)
Example: I have never had a job, but I did a summer internship and they would say that I like to learn new things, I’m a hard worker, and I show up on time.
12. How do you feel about taking “no” for an answer?
Example: We can all learn something from each other so I would use it as an opportunity.
13. Why should we hire you? (tip: tell them!)
Example: I’m the best suited for this position and you should hire me because I’ll do my best and I have the skills and experience that you’re looking for.
14. Do you have any questions for me? (tip: Always ask at least two questions!)
Example: What is your favorite part of working here OR being a manager?
Example: How do you reward employees for a job well-done?
Example: What does the review process for a new employee look like?
Example: What do the company sales projections look like for the next five years?
