1. Preparing for the Interview

2. Tip # 1: Learn All You Can About the Company
Go online
Visit the company

3. Tip # 2: Gather Important Documents
Multiple copies of your resumé
Copies of diplomas, Awards, certificates, Transcripts
Driver’s license
Social Security Card
Letters of Reference

4. Tip # 3: Know Where to Go Drive to the interview site ahead of time
Allow an extra ten minutes on the day of the interview
If someone drives you, have them stay in the car

5. Tip # 4: Dress for Success

6. Percent of Employers Negatively Influenced by:
Clothing
Handshake
Unusual Hair Color
Obvious Tattoos
Body Piercing
Unusual Hair Style

7. Body Piercing

8. Tip # 5: Edit Social Networking Sites & Blogs
Do not post anything that would make a pastor, priest, or parent blush
If you have inappropriate content, remove it before a job interview
45% of employers check-out applicants online.

9. Tip # 5: Edit Social Networking Sites & Blogs
Source: Cooper Anderson Talk Show airing March 6, 2012.

10. Tip # 6: Practice Common Interview Questions
Tell me about yourself
Why do you want to work for this company?
What did you dislike about your previous job?
What are your strengths?
What are your weaknesses?
What are your future plans?
Describe a challenging situation and how you overcame it.
What are you passionate about?
How do you handle stress?
Do you have any questions for me?

11. Tip # 7: Practice Your Introduction & Handshake
Pleased to meet you, Mr. Smith.
I am John Q. Student.

12. Top 12 Characteristics Wanted in Workers
Report to work every time scheduled, on time, and ready to work.
Show initiative – do what needs to be done without being asked
Be well groomed and keep work station clean and neat
Treat customers politely and keep them happy
Concentrate on what you are doing
Be honest

13. Top 12 Characteristics Wanted in Workers
Develop good communication skills – ask questions; have an outgoing, friendly personality
Be eager to learn new things about the job
Have a great attitude towards others and work
Get along with others
Do quality work
Follow the rules

14. Interview Practice Questions