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Interviewing

Interview Tips for High School Students 
 
Prepare Ahead of Time (Days prior to the interview!)
  • Do not go into an interview stone cold with no preparation!
    • Predict questions you may be asked during the interview. 
      • Write them out on paper. 
      • It works a different type of your brain to actually write out your thoughts and will help you memorize your answers.
    • Have questions prepared to ask the interviewer at the end of the interview that you actually take to the interview. 
      • Research any website the employer may have ahead of time.
  • Consult with others
    • Consult about the prospective job and skills they see you in that would match (teachers, parents, counselor, etc.)
  • Write down your strengths
    • In the days before the interview examine your own strengths, so you have time to think about them ahead of time.
    • Be prepared to answer why the job interests you and why you think you are the person for the job
    • Also think about your weaknesses, as you may be asked about them and how you would best approach a question pertaining to them in a positive light.
  • Prepare a portfolio
    • Put in it items that apply to the job such as pictures, awards, certificates/ you diploma, etc. (This will help you stand-out which is the name of the game!)
  • Have Your Resume and References Printed 
    • Take both to your interview
    • Make sure you are using a professional sounding e-mail (Not Iheartteddybears@...)
  • Have Your Voicemail Sounding Professional
    • Make sure your voicemail is a standard voicemail and not something silly sounding
At the Interview
  • Remember You Are Being Being Interviewed At All Times
    • Even prior to starting the interview and right after from the minute you walk in the door you are interviewing.
    • Arrive early for your Interview! 
      • 15 minutes early is your best bet.  This is demonstrating that you will be early to work and that you are dependable.
  • Dress Appropriately
    • First impressions are huge so make sure you dress to nail the interview.  A good rule of thumb is dressing a step up from what you would wear for the actual job.
  • Treat the Front Office Well
    • Act as if they are part of the interview (They are!)
    • Be nice, professional, and maintain good eye contact.
  • Cell phones Off or on Silent
    • Remember not to check your phone while you are being interviewed.
  • Greet the Interviewer
  •  
    • Maintain good eye contact, a firm handshake, and a smile.
  • Be Positive and Enthusiastic About the Job
  • Have Your List of Questions Ready
    • Ask questions that lead the interviewer to know you are eager to hear more.
  • Do Not Bring Up Pay!
    • Leave letting the interview know hands down you want the job (If you do!)
After the Interview
  • Compose a Thank-You E-mail or Note
    • Follow-up with right after the interview thanking the interviewer for the interview and stating you want the job and why and that you look forward to hearing from the interviewer.