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Wednesday, 29 April 2009

Have you interviewed first-time job seekers or those applying for internships?

Alison's contribution:


This is handled in schools here in Year 10-11-12 - in much the same way telephone skills where handled 40 years ago in the US (albeit this training was aimed at 10-12). Some of the local counciles get involved as well, particularly as a day of mock interviews - say 20 minutes. 

Here's a smattering of the off the top of my head 

Preparing for Interview - Look the part**, and ADD extra travel time - print out the map. Rehearse everything you plan to say at least 100 times -even the hellos and good byes. **Scope out ahead of time, dress up/down and CLEAN and IRONED according to their dress rules. Clean shoes and a breath mint help as well. Be prepared for anything - including tests, "trying out a role play", describing a paperclip to someone who had never seen on, selling a pen, etc. 

Most important: Prepare questions about the firm, job, etc - not 101, but ask about the responsibilities, training, hours, everything which is relevant to you. 

Resumes & Applications - tomes written on this - other questions have covered most of the advice you might glean. 

Workplace conduct - general adage "never discuss religion, politics and sex" Attitude: Friendly and professional. Focus on getting the job done and learning as much as possible. Ask for feedback on performance (How can I improve how I do x/y) and volunteer or more responsibily when the opportunity arises. 

Anything else: Right attitude = correct result; eg if you have done your best, then you have nothing to regret. Afterwards: Look at yourself in the mirror and ask would you have hired you? Was it the right job for you? If no/not yet, what do you need to do to get the result you want the next time. 

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