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Student name: ____________________________________ Date: _______________
MODULE
33
Practice
skills needed to be successful
in
a job interview.
Objectives:
A. Prepare for an interview.
B.
Demonstrate appropriate behavior in an interview.
MODULE 33: INFORMATION SHEET
TO THE STUDENT: Read
and study this information sheet and then complete the student activities
at the end of this module.
Introduction
The interview is perhaps the most critical event of the job search process. Few people are hired without first being interviewed. Understanding what an employer will look for in an applicant is an important basis for knowing how to respond in an interview. Identifying key skills and being able to support them is a critical interview issue.
It is clear that the dynamics of an
interview are complex. It is not simply a verbal exchange—though that is complex
in itself. For example, while the telephone contact is primarily a verbal
one, job interviews require control of many things other than the voice. Employers
will not only hear the job seeker, they will also see, touch (a handshake),
and smell them (perfume or aftershave). Physical appearance and grooming become
major factors, as does the often mystical factor of body language.
This Module will cover the basics of
the interview process. Because of the importance of the interview itself,
students will role play and practice interview skills. Good interviewing skills
can be the difference between getting a job and not getting a job. Students
will learn basic interviewing skills including the importance of making a
good first impression, answering problem questions, closing the interview
effectively, and following up after the interview. They will also learn to
analyze an interview question and to use a technique to answer the real concern
of the employer.
Personal
characteristics an employer looks for during an interview:
1. Enthusiasm and interest
2. Dedication and dependability
3. Alertness, quickness of mind
4. Honesty and integrity
5. Desire to work
6. Desire to help others
7. Desire to improve oneself
Guidelines
for dressing for an interview.
(NOTE: It is very important that the applicant make the best impression possible from the beginning of the interview. Most interviewers form an opinion within the first four to six minutes of the interview.)
1. Dress to fit the job for which you are applying
(NOTE: Dress better for the interview than you normally would for a
day on the job.)
2. Coordinate clothing
(NOTE: Consider colors, patterns, fabrics, and suitable styles for
your shape and body structure.)
3. Be conservative
(NOTE: Avoid wearing high-fashion items or the newest
fads.)
EXAMPLES: Wear simple jewelry, natural-looking makeup; avoid strong
colognes or aftershaves; avoid wearing sunglasses during the interview.
4. Be modest and well-groomed
EXAMPLES: Clean, simple styled hair, clean and neatly trimmed nails
and facial hair, buttoned shirt/blouse; fashionable but modest skirt length;
well-fitting clothes (not too tight); polished shoes.
Recommended
interviewing practices.
(NOTE: Your behavior before, during and after your
interview will strongly influence the
impression that you make. The following practices will help you "sell
yourself" during the interview.)
1. Prepare for the interview by researching the
company and practicing for the interview.
2. Arrive early for the interview (10-15 minutes).
3. Go to the interview alone unless otherwise requested.
(NOTE: Occasionally, you may be asked to bring your
spouse.)
4. Introduce yourself to the receptionist or secretary
and the interviewer; state the purpose of your visit.
5. Greet by name the person who will interview you.
(NOTE: Be sure to pronounce the name correctly.)
6. Shake hands if the interviewer extends the offer.
(NOTE: Make sure that your handshake is firm.)
7. Sit down when the interviewer indicates that
you should.
8. Sit quietly until the interviewer opens the interview.
While waiting, you may want to observe things in the room that may help you
find a common ground or develop rapport with interviewer.
9. Try not to show nervousness.
(NOTE: Keep hands clasped in lap, if necessary, to
keep them motionless.)
10. Maintain good posture. Leaning slightly forward
shows interest.
11. Maintain eye contact with interviewer.
12. Listen carefully.
(NOTE: This will enable you to answer the questions
directly.)
13. Do not smoke or chew gum, even when invited to
do so.
14.
Show a real interest in the job for which you are interviewing.
15. Use good manners.
(NOTE:
Be courteous. Say "thank you" for services and attention given to
you. Have a ready smile and a friendly attitude.)
16. Be brief, positive, and honest when answering
questions.
(NOTE: You should explain your answers fully. It is
usually necessary to explain "yes" or "no" answers.)
17. Avoid using slang and offensive language.
18. Be ready to talk about individual work experiences
and special skills.
19. Discuss positive aspects of self, not negative
aspects of others or previous companies.
20. If you
don’t understand a question, it’s OK to ask for clarification or to have the
question rephrased.
21. Wait until the end of the interview to ask questions
you have written down concerning the job.
EXAMPLES: When you will be notified; whether you must
return.
22. Politely thank the interviewer for his or her
time and consideration.
23. Offer to provide the interviewer with any additional
information.
24. Be ready to take a performance test.
EXAMPLES: Shorthand, writing, typing.
25. Develop and use a pleasant speaking voice.
26. Follow-up interview with a letter thanking the interviewer
for interviewing you.
27. Ask for a business card so you have the proper name and spelling
for a thank you note.
28. Take extra copies of your resume to the interview.
29. Take samples of your work, if available.
MODULE
33: STUDENT ACTIVITIES
Activity
1-1: Personal Grooming checklist (Females)
Directions: Rate
yourself on the following items. Give yourself four (4) points for each "Always,"
two (2) points for each "Sometimes," and no (0) points for "Never."
When you have completed the form, total the score and compare your rating
with the rating scale provided.
Always Sometimes Never
1.
Do you wear clothes that are
appropriate for the occasion? ______
______
______
2.
Are your clothes clean and pressed?
______ ______
______
3.
Do you check garments for split
seams, ripped hems, and loose
buttons before wearing? ______
______
______
4.
Do you check your hose for snags
and runs before wearing?
______
______
______
5.
Do you put on clean undergarments
and hosiery each day? ______
______
______
6.
Do you keep your shoes brushed,
polished, and in good repair?
______
______
______
7.
Is your hair neat and appropriately
arranged? ______ ______
______
8
Do you wear a minimum of makeup
that is in good taste?
______
______
______
9.
Do you brush your teeth at least
twice a day? ______
______
______
10. Are
your fingernails clean and
trimmed?
______ ______ ______
11. Do
you keep your body clean and
use a deodorant daily? ______ ______ ______
Total
Points ________ RATING SCALE: 38-44
You meet business standards
30-37 Employer may grudgingly tolerate you
Below 30 Better
get to work on your appearance!
Activity
1-1: Personal Grooming checklist (males)
Directions: Rate
yourself on the following items. Give yourself four (4) points for each "Always,"
two (2) points for each "Sometimes," and no (0) points for "Never."
When you have completed the form, total the score and compare your rating
with the rating scale provided.
Always Sometimes Never
1.
Do you wear clothes that are
appropriate for the occasion? ______
______
______
2.
Are your clothes clean and pressed?
______ ______
______
3.
Do you wash your hair often
enough to keep it clean?
______
______
______
4.
Do you put on clean socks and
underwear daily? ______ ______
______
5.
Are your shoes shined and in good
repair?
______ ______ ______
6.
Is your hair trimmed and combed? ______ ______
______
7.
Do you check your clothes for spots,
missing buttons, or split seams
before wearing?
______
______
______
8.
Do you brush your teeth at least
twice a day? ______
______
______
9.
Are your fingernails clean and
trimmed?
______ ______ ______
10. Are
you clean shaven? ______ ______ ______
11. Do
you keep your body clean and
use a deodorant daily? ______ ______ ______
Total
Points ________ RATING SCALE: 38-44
You meet business standards
30-37 Employer may grudgingly tolerate you
Below 30 Better
get to work on your appearance!
Activity1-2: Role Play a Job Interview
You and another student should role
play this sample job interview. Please
have your instructor watch your performance.
A = Applicant I = Interviewer
A (Enters
room, pauses, smiles, and approaches Ms. Jones whose hand is extended. They
shake hands.) Hello, Ms. Jones, I'm Joe Hunter and am applying for the job
of meat wrapper which you advertised in Friday's Daily Press.
I Hello,
Mr. Hunter. Won't you have a seat?
A Thank
you. I have a resume which may be helpful to you. (Hands Ms. Jones the resume
and sits down.)
I This
is a very well prepared data sheet. Well, Joe, tell me about yourself.
A I'm a junior at Anytown High
School where I'm enrolled in a career and technical food service program.
I'm interested in working in a business like yours while going to school and
when I graduate. My older brother works in a related business in Big City,
and I think there are a lot of future opportunities in this field.
I Joe,
have you had any work experience or are you currently working anywhere?
A Yes,
I am working as a courtesy clerk for Mady's Meat Market. I am responsible
for keeping the checkout area clean and well-stocked with sacks, as well as
carrying groceries for the customers. I have also done odd jobs for my relatives
and neighbors.
I What
do you think you have learned from your job at the meat market?
A Probably
the most important thing I have learned is how to deal with customers.
I What
kind of person is your employer and how do you get along?
A My
employer has several good qualities. He offers very good service to the customers,
and we get along well.
I Why
do you want to leave?
A I
feel there would be more opportunity for me to develop the skills necessary
to reach my occupational objective in a business such as yours.
I How
did you get the job at the meat market?
A A
friend of mine who used to work there recommended me as his replacement.
I When
would you be able to start and what hours could you work?
A I
could start as soon as I give my present employer two weeks notice. I will
be able to work from 2:30 to 5:30 PM on weekdays and all day on weekends and
holidays.
I Which
school activities are you involved in this year?
A I
am a member of the FHA, student council and glee club. I should know about any trips with these groups
early enough to make arrangements with you and another employee so there will
be no problems with missing work.
I Do
you have any financial obligations, such as a car payment?
A No,
Ms. Jones.
I Have
you ever had any difficulty with the police other than a traffic violation?
A No.
I How
much do you expect to earn?
A I
understand from some of the other employees that a person may begin at the
minimum wage and advance with time and experience.
I That's
right. Here is a brochure explaining our pay scale and other benefits.
A Thank
you.
I Thank
you for talking to us. We will let you know about the job soon.
A (Stands)
Thank you for your time, Ms. Jones. Have a good day. (Shakes hands and leaves.)
Activity 1-3: Consider
Job Interview Questions
Answer the following questions on a
separate sheet of paper. The following are some questions that you might be
asked when you are applying for various jobs. Keep this assignment sheet to
review before going for any actual interview.
(NOTE:
Questions about your personal life may not be legally asked. In fact, it is
illegal for any employer to ask your maiden name or your father's surname
if you are a female applicant; your marital status; who lives with you; the
church you attend or the name of your spiritual leader; how many children
you have, their ages, or who will care for them while you are at work; whether
you own or rent your residence; whether you have ever had your wages garnished;
and whether you have ever been arrested. However, many interviewers, particularly
in smaller businesses, may ask such questions. Whether or not you choose to
answer the questions depends on how badly you want the job.)
Review the following questions. Why
do you think each question might be asked?
1. Where do you go to school? When will you graduate?
2. Do you (did you) earn any of your own expense
money while in school?
3. Why did you leave your previous job(s)?
4. What did you like best and what did you like
least about your classes?
5. What books have you read lately? What are your
favorite magazines?
6. Are you in good health?
7. What do you expect to be doing five or ten
years from now? What is your chosen field of work?
8. At what salary do you expect to start?
9. What are some of your special abilities? What
skills do you possess? What tools
or equipment can you operate?
10. How would you rate your training for this job?
Very good? Fair?
11. What personal characteristics do you think are
needed to succeed in your career?
12. In what area do you need the most improvement?
13. Do you like to work with other people or do you
work best alone?
14. Do you have any questions you want to ask us?
15. Do you think your extracurricular activities
are well worth the time you devote to them?
16. How could you contribute to our organization? Why should we hire you?
17. Tell us about your family and any plans for marriage
or further education.
(NOTE:
Remember legally you do not have to answer this question. However, it is a
good idea to prepare an answer in case such a question is asked.)
18. For what other job(s) have you applied?
19. Do you have any military obligations to fulfill?
20. Give us an example of a project you finished
under pressure.
21. May we write or call your last employer?
22. How many people have you supervised at work or
through organizations of which you are a member?
23. How do you feel about the progress you have made
salary wise?
24. Would you be able to work all day Saturday and
Sunday?
25. If you could start school (or work) over again,
what would you do differently?
26. What is your school attendance record?
27. Have you done the best school work of which you
are capable?
28. Do you require attention? Does criticism disturb
you?
(NOTE:
These questions are usually asked in a more subtle and indirect way.)
29. What motivates you?
30. Would you be willing to relocate?
31. What size city do you prefer?
32. Have you saved any money?
33. Define cooperation.
34. What job with our company would you choose if
you were entirely free to do so?
35. How do you feel about working overtime?
36. Would you be willing to submit to a drug test?
37. Brainstorm some questions you might have at the
end of an interview:
Activity 2-1: Participate in a Job Interview
Now that you are prepared for an interview, team up with another student in class. Assume the roles of interviewer and applicant and then switch so each of you gets to play both roles. Apply for the job you now have, for one you would like to have, or use the sample interview at the end of this assignment sheet. You may want to use the want ad in a local newspaper to find out what jobs are available. Let your other classmates evaluate your performance using the job interview evaluation form below. Videotape the practice sessions if possible.
JOB INTEVIEW EVALUATION FORM
Preparing
for the Interview Yes No