Interview Tips

Interview Tips for both the Employer and the Student

The employment interview is one of the most important events in the average person's experience, for the obvious reason that the 20 or 30 minutes spent with the interviewer may determine the entire future course on one's life. Yet interviewers are constantly amazed at the number of applicants who drift into job interviews without any preparation and only the vaguest idea of what they are going to say. (Effective Business Communications – Herta A. Murphy & Herbert W. Hildebrandt)

"Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference." (Author unknown)

Your attitude can be assessed within the first 30-60 seconds of the interview.

Before you contact an employer, gather all information about the job (i.e. job title, contact person/supervisor, rate of pay, allotment, and location).

It is helpful to bring a pen and paper with you to write down any information that might pertain (your hours, who your supervisor will be).

Remember, first impressions may be the only impression you make, so make it a good one.

Work Study Interview Positives

Arrive early for the interview.
Have a neat appearance.
- Dress appropriately.
- Good Grooming.
Go alone.
- Do not take a friend for support…employers are not impressed by this.
Have a firm hand shake.
- Shows a strong personality.
- Do not squeeze too hard.
Smile.
Be prepared/stay calm.
Tell them about yourself.
Show interest.
Listen to all of the questions asked.
Be honest and sincere.
Stick to the facts.
Use correct grammar and pronunciation.
Keep answers brief.
- Do not talk too much.
- Answer questions carefully.
Accent your positive qualifications.
Be flexible & realistic to department/office needs.
Ask questions if you do not understand or need more information.

Negatives – Things To Avoid

Do not be late for the interview.
Discourtesy.
- Avoid:
-- Using first names.
-- Chewing gum.
-- Doodling.
Do not sit down until you are asked to.
Do not lack confidence or be nervous.
Go into the situation well prepared.
Do not interrupt the interviewer who is speaking.
Do not use jargon, slang, or swear words.
Do not let your eyes roam.
Have good eye contact throughout the interview.
Do not use unfavorable comments.
Avoid bad talking about former employers, teachers/professors, etc.
Do not be overaggressive or have a sarcastic attitude.
Avoid a "Know it all" attitude.
Do not exaggerate on your answers.

Questions an employer might ask you –

Tell me about yourself.
Are you a good worker?
Can I depend on you?
How do you take direction?
How do you get along with others?
How do you feel about this position?
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Why do you think you might be qualified for this position?
Are you involved in any extracurricular activities?
Do you have a job out side of campus?
Do you have any experience you can provide our department/office?
Do you have any questions?

Questions to ask the employer (There is no such thing as a stupid question)

1. Where will the job take place?
2. Why do people like working for your area?
3. What types of training or support can I expect?
4. Are there any special requirements for the position?
5. When would I have to start working?
6. What are the hours I will have to work?
7. Could I see the work area?
8. When will you make a decision about hiring for this position?

Questions that are illegal for the interviewer to ask: (If you are uncomfortable – be polite and say you wish not to answer the question)

1. Marital status
2. Family Planning
3. Child care arrangements
4. Age
5. Religion
6. Race
7. Language
8. Handicap

When you leave your interview, you should leave with the same confidence you had going into it. Look directly at the person who is giving the interview, shake hands, thank them for their time, and state that you hope to hear from them again.
BACK TO MAIN WORK STUDY PAGE