Prepare Yourself
Before you get almost any job, you will have an employment interview. That interview is probably the single most important step to obtaining a job. So to help you along the way, here are some suggestions - ways you can prepare yourself beforehand for that decisive step into your future!
Know Yourself
What are your interests and qualifications? Your prospective employer will want to know. So, be prepared to talk about them briefly, intelligently and clearly during the interview.
Know something about the firm
Before you make an appointment for a job interview, find out whatever you can about the firm. The more you know about the firm the better able you will be to suggest ways you can be of service to your prospective employer when you are interviewed.
Check your personal appearance
Before you leave for the interview, check your appearance. Dress for the job, so you look as though you are ready to go to work.
Go to the interview alone
Employers are interested in you, in the way you present yourself. They don't want to hear what your relatives or friends think of your qualifications. They will judge for themselves. So, go to the interview alone.
Arrive early
Get to the interview 10 - 15 minutes ahead of time. Present yourself in a straightforward manner. Let the receptionist know who you are and whom you wish to see.
Be alert during the interview
Sit up straight and look alert during the interview. Try to be at ease and answer your prospective employer's questions in a businesslike manner.
Think before answering
Think before answering questions. Be polite, accurate, honest and frank.
Because the employer is especially interested in experience and training that fits you to the job be prepared to answer questions such as:
- Tell me about yourself
- What work have you done?
- How did you do it?
- Did you use any special tools or equipment?
- How much did you earn?
- Why should I hire you?
Bring a fact sheet
A fact sheet about your former jobs, dates of work, wages, kinds of work and reasons for leaving is essential. Make the fact sheet brief, but accurate. MPIC has free "pocket resumes" available to everyone. To get yours, call 1-800-616-1196. E-mailing us with your name and address will get one sent to you.
Here are some of the things to include on a "pocket resume":
- Personal information
- Names and addresses of your past employers
- Dates you worked
- Names and addresses of at least two other persons who know of your abilities and background.
- Names and addresses of all schools you attended and the type of diploma or certificate, if any, you received.
Be Polite
Be diplomatic, polite and tactful. Listen to everything your prospective employer has to say. Don't argue. Try to answer all questions accurately and tactfully.
Leave your troubles at home
Don't tell employers your troubles. They are not interested in your personal family problems. They are interested in you as a prospective employee.