Getting a job...Interview Tips? Any other suggestions?

United States
March 29, 2008 10:34pm CST
I'm nineteen, married and the mother of an amazing seven month old little girl. She is the most incredible thing that has ever happened to me. I've just recently decided I'm going to get a job, at least for the summer, and work on paying off all of my credit cards, and starting a savings account to buy a house with. I've been applying everywhere I can think of for the last few days. I just wish someone would hire me on the spot! I haven't got any interviews yet, but I plan on calling everyone back on monday to check the status of my application. Any tips or suggestions?
3 people like this
10 responses
@mic_tcs (264)
• Malaysia
30 Mar 08
You should call them back if they didn't get back to you, but not too soon, in case they get irritated. Maybe wait for a couple more days. Here's some tip for interview: first impression is very important. So wear appropriately and be confident during interview. Thats what I learn through the interviews that I've attended. Try to convince the panels that you are the most suitable person for the job. Hope these help. God Bless.
@Bethany1202 (3431)
• United States
30 Mar 08
I definitely think you should call them back Monday. Many places like that you will step up to the plate and take the initiative to contact them, and it also shows you are serious about the job and have some enthusiasm for it. Be sure to make up a resume, especially if you have work history. If you've never had a job, simply include your school history (high school and anything post-high school should be sufficient), skills, and objectives. If you need help with a resume, simply search online for tips and formats. Always wear nice attire, even if it's a job you wouldn't normally dress nice for. This shows a certain level of professionalism and also that you will take the position seriously. Always carry a list of references prospective employers can call. These are usually requested to be professional references, but some places want personal references as well, so be sure to have them all on hand. Teachers, co-workers, friends, bosses -- they are all good references, but family members are not usually allowed. Of course, always be confident as the other person said and be friendly and professional. I hope this has helped you, and I definitely suggest calling these places back Monday! Best wishes.
1 person likes this
• United States
30 Mar 08
Thanks so much! Hopefully it goes well!
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@jiangsl (377)
• China
31 Mar 08
Hi Bethany1202,I think you have much experience in interview.So you work at HR ?I also think confidence is very important and clothes should be tidy and cleanlily.For me,I have another tip.It is how to introduce yourself to others,I often feel nervous and cann't express myself.One also practise more and get well ready for the interview.
@pkc3000 (1266)
• India
30 Mar 08
Dear friends facing interview is a very serious syndrome for a job seekers. I have also faced the same situation in my earlier day when I was seeking job. I applied for govt job in secretarial cadre and I was called for interview i.e. group discussion. ce where all seekers were present. I was feeling very nervous. Before one day of the interview date I got few tips from my uncle how to handle the situation. There are some tips to please the authority. 1) before entering in to the room be polite and always ask May I come in sir, 2) say good morning to all your superior who will conduct the interview, 3) unless until they ask you for sit down do not be seated , 4) be ready for answer what ever the question they throw before you, do not fumbling while talking 5) If you are not in a position to answer or you do not know the exact answer clearly spell them pass 6) do not make any arguement 7) before leaving the room again say good morning these are atticasy which may carry extra numbers pkc3000
• United States
30 Mar 08
Eye contact is a big deal. Make sure to keep eye contact with your interviewer the entire time she's asking you a question. Also, when you walk in, make sure to shake your interviewer's hand. It will also help if you've dressed nicely for the occasion, as many people get rejected because they don't look like they cared much about their appearance at the interview. Another big thing is to research the company in advance. Come up with some basic questions about the company that you can ask your interviewer. By having those questions, it shows that you're interested in the *company* itself, not just your job. My last suggestion would be to find a website that offers lists of commonly asked job interview questions, and read them over and say your responses *out loud* so you can avoid using "umm" and having awkward pauses during your interview.
1 person likes this
• United States
30 Mar 08
Bethany (above poster) has given some solid advice. I would add this: be sure you know the answer to what your strengths and weaknesses are. The weakness one is especially important...talk about a situation at a previous job that was negative but you learned something from that bettered your work performance. Or,something you currently struggle with and what you are doing to overcome it. Some resources say to pick a weakness that doesn't really have anything to do with the job- for example "I am poor at math and need a calculator for even simple problems, so I make sure to carry one with me all the time" would be good if you are applying for a hotel maid position...but maybe not so good for a cashiering job. Do a search online and you should get some good resources for finding your answer to that question. This short video addresses the weakness question. http://images.metacafe.com/watch/453482/tough_interview_question_what_is_your_greatest_weakness/ This site has a good, comprehensive list of general do's and dont's. http://www.careerstrides.com/article_50_tips.html
1 person likes this
• United States
30 Mar 08
This is certainly true! You don't want to sound flustered at a job interview. I've always found the best thing is honesty. If you don't know something, there is no point in lying and saying you DO know it! However, if you don't know something, say you are quick and eager to learn, and you will do the best to your ability. This has always worked for me, and I have been a quick learner for everything honestly, so whether it's been a job as a bartender, bank teller, import/export agent, receptionist, telephone operator, salesperson, cashier, etc... I've been able to learn. You also should only apply to jobs you think you'd be able to do well. If it's something well out of your abilities, don't bother UNLESS they offer to train you for free. In the case of getting on-the-job training, this usually turns out invaluable as you don't have to pay for the knowledge and GET PAID WHILE LEARNING. This is ALWAYS something you can take with you to another job if that job doesn't turn out as planned!
• Canada
30 Mar 08
Best tip : Be honest and be yourself. It's okay to be anxious, I think we all are during interviews!
1 person likes this
@hey_baby (425)
• Philippines
30 Mar 08
make sure your resume is complete and professional looking and that all your documents needed are complete. wear a decent attire and minimal accessories. earth colors works best. stay away from colorful, printed outfits and those over the top accesories. you can research also about the company you'll be going to, if in case they ask you why you wish to apply in their company. during the interview, better to keep your answers short and simple. as much as possible avoid having long pauses in answering. try not to use "uhm" while thinking of your answer. when asked about your strengths and weaknesses, try not to focus really on your weakness. you can say, 'my weakness is that i'm a workaholic (or a perfectionist)' be ready to answers the usual questions (atleast this is based on my experience) -what makes you different from the other applicants -why should we hire you -what are your/strengths/weaknesses -what can you contribute to the company -tell me something about yourself don't hold back in asking questions too if you got the chance. this is to interact with employers, will show them that you are really interested in the job. goodluck!
1 person likes this
@kbourgerie (8780)
• United States
30 Mar 08
I just went through a week long workshop on interviewing, resumes and the like. The first job I applied for after the workshop I got. So my tips are these; 1. have a resume ready, 2. have a verbal resume ready. (When they ask you to tell a little bit about yourself don't give them your personal life story, say something to the effect of my name is.......i have x number of years experience in this career field, my most recent experience includes.......most recently i have been recognized for and in the future i see myself doing........ Practice this with someone you know or in front of a mirror until you feel comfortable with it. Have someone ask you questions an interviewer might ask, so that you are comfortable in giving impromptu answers. 3. don't give out any personal information unless directly asked, for example don't tell them that you have a seven month old child because that automatically sends up red flags in regard to you needing child care, the potential of an infant becoming ill and you having to take time off, stuff like that. 4. ask questions about what the company can do for you. Its a two way street. Its as much your choice as to whether to work for this company as it is for them to decide whether or not they want you. Good luck. I know its not easy and I hope this helps.
@vera5d (4005)
• United States
30 Mar 08
msn has a lot of good resources on interview tips and whatnot. the best thing to do is write neatly on the application and try to relate how your previous experience or hobbies relates to the job duties you are applying for. a really good job that pays well is waitressing. I've made $100 in just a few hours a night doing that if you work at the right place. Sometimes though you'll have to start on the bottom of the totem pool as a busboy before they let you statr waiting tables unless they are desperate to hire someone lol. good luck in finding a job you enjoy!
@jewilim (495)
• Philippines
30 Mar 08
well, before you go for an interview, be sure to know about the company or establishment that you are applying. Know what kind of jof are you applying for and be sure to know that you are qualified for the job. When you go for an interview be sure to be properly groomed and dressed appropriately so that you would look presentable (dont get overdressed just try to look decent and professional) . Always be on-time when you go for an interview, being late would create a bad impression on you. Setting aside the interview, if you get the job, it would really be nice if you could try to budget your salary and minimize your spending. Try spending on those things that are essential (relly needed) and avoid spending on unnecessary things so that you could save for the future. Its really hard to save nowadays since we have very many things to spend on that we see as essential to our lives. Hope you get your job. :)
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