Thursday, April 3, 2008

Job interview lessons

I recently got done with a mock job interview lesson with my kids. I go over how to write cover letters, resumes, and the actual interview. A big part of the interview process is non-verbal communication. You know, non-verbals are all of the things you say without vocally saying anything. The biggest mistake that kids make in this mock job interview assignment is not doing their homework. What I mean by that is that they don't do any research on the place they are applying to.

Readers of this blog: what are some lessons you have learned from job interviews?

2 comments:

Cliff said...

Biggest lesson learned is do not trash a current or former employer, as they would think that you would do the same for them after you were done with the job you are interviewing for.

Linda Jones Malonson said...

Watch your body language, good eye contact, pay very close attention to what you are wearing.

For women, extreme hairdos and long nails are not the way to go. Close toe shoes, and professional attire is the right way. No heavy makeup, and by all means watch that red or glossy lipstick. Never bite your lips, and make your answers short.

For men, keep your baggy pant at home. Designer shirts are a no no ... and if you must wear jeans, make sure they have a crease in them, and you have on a nice white shirt, and a jacket that will compliment the pant. No tennis shoes or sandal. Remember, you are looking for a job; you are not going to a party!

Also, if your parent has cursed you with one of those names that no one can pronounce, use initials. Weird names can stop you from getting an interview. It’s not fair, but that’s life!

Struke is right, check out the company you want to work for and make sure to bring up some of the positive things about them during the interview. If they are in sales, check out their merchandise. Most company wants an applicant to know who they are and what they sell and will ask questions to see if you are in the know.

Cliff is right, always have something positive to say about the company you are currently working for, and when asked why you are leaving – this is a good place to tell them about the positive things about their company, and what you have to offer to make it better.

Remember, everyone has egos, so keep your under wrap. Listen very carefully to what your interviewer is saying, and don’t interrupt them.

Last but not least, don’t LIE on your resume. Every job trains you for the position you are applying for, so talk up your good points, and let them know you have room to grown and you are willing to learn.