1. Carroll County Advisement Program
Interviewing skills
Carroll County Advisement Program

2. “The origin of interviews”

3. Arrive Early for your interview
Get there about 15 minutes early
Make a trial run the day before to make sure of the location
Being punctual is very important to employers

4. Turn off your cell phone
Resist the temptation to look at your phone if you are in the interviewer’s presence.
Employer concerns about teens who constantly check their phones:
Safety violations
Low productivity
Poor customer service

5. Dress for success Business Casual Attire for Young Men:
Business casual dress is usually appropriate when applying for a part-time or summer job.
Business Casual Attire for Young Men:
Khakis pants or dress pants
Collared shirt
Business Casual Attire for Young Women:
Nice blouse or sweater
Skirt of appropriate length or dress pants
Don’t Wear:
Athletic shoes
Excessive cologne/perfume
Clothes with holes or wrinkles

6. Make a Great First Impression
Offer firm handshake
Make eye contact
Give a warm, confident smile
Address the interviewer as Mr. or Ms.
Exhibit energy and enthusiasm
Demonstrate a positive attitude
Be courteous and attentive

7. Show interest in the job
Explain reasons the job interests you by making references to the:
Job responsibilities
Work environment
People with whom you would interact
Ask a few questions at the end of the interview about the job:
Nature of work
Training
Supervision
Clientele
Timeline
TIP:
Don’t bring up pay.

8. Know your Strengths
Become familiar with the job description and be able to say how you meet many of the job qualifications
Be prepared to describe situations where you have used your strengths to get tasks done
If you have not had many jobs, use academics, school activities, sports and volunteer work for examples
Tip: Research and review common questions and answers for interviews

9. Follow up after the interview
Send a thank you letter to everyone who met with you thanking them for their time.
Send your letter within 24 hours of the interview.
Reiterate your interest in the job and the company.
Highlight your relevant skills.
Mention anything you wished you had said, but didn't, during the interview.
Keep your thank you letter short.

10. Summary
Research the company and the job description before the interview.
Arrive early to the interview.
Turn off your cell phone.
Make a great first impression.
Show interest in the job.
Know your strengths and weaknesses.
Follow up after the interview by sending a thank you letter.