Like It’s Your JOB!
Hiya!
Lauren here! Kathryn has been killing the blog lately with some serious awesome but I thought I’d step in for a post! I know it’s that time of the year; summer is almost here and you’re about to graduate. Whether you’re interning, looking for a full-time position, or trying to sloth as long as you can, you’re going to want to do the BEST job possible when it comes to interviewing. I’ve interviewed a lot of precious faces in my day and I thought I’d take a little time to share with you some helpful tips based on what I find most important during the interview process.
Look ‘Em In The EYE!
Get your eye contact going from the beginning. If someone asks you to come in for an interview, nothing says confidence like a person who shakes your hand and looks you right in the eyes. Wandering stares and side glances are only telling me that you’re thinking about the last time I’ve cleaned under my desk or trying to see if that really is a dinosaur figurine on my shelf (it is).
Don’t Wear Shorts, No Matter What.
They always tell you to ‘dress for the job you want, not the job you have.’ I say dress for the position that you’re applying for. Be comfortable, be yourself, and be thoughtful when you consider interview attire. Show your future boss what they’re going to be presented with everyday. And no matter what you do, under any circumstance (unless your job requires it) don’t wear shorts. Just trust me on this one.
5W’S And An H!
Ask. Questions. I’m bolding this SO HARD so you know that we want you to ask us questions. Go into the interview already knowing all about the company and the job/position. Think of at least 3 great questions to ask. This shows me that you’re interested in our company and you want to learn more about how we operate. Be familiar with the product, be ready to tell me exactly what you can bring to the table.
Tell Me Something That You Wouldn’t Want Me To Know About You.
My FAVORITE question to ask in an interview because it throws everyone off. I’ve received some very colorful answers in the past and I’m telling you that if you can handle this one, you can handle them all! Keep away from canned answers at any interview such as “I wouldn’t want you to know that sometimes I go home and night and do MORE WORK!” or “I wouldn’t want you to know that I’m a perfectionist!” Try something real! The best answers are the honest, non rehearsed answers instead of the ‘I’m telling you what I think you want to hear,’ answers. We just want to see you think on your feet. You can tell me something irrelevant, and that’s okay, or you can tell me something you think is a personal fault, and how you fix it. Either way, give me an honest answer.
Ummmm..... well...... I.....
I’ve just asked you a question and you have no idea how to answer it.
Stop. Smile. “That’s a great question. Let me think... I’d have to say....”
We just want to hear how you talk through problems. If you don’t know the answer, that’s okay, chances are I don’t either, but let’s hear how you get to that end point. Curb the ‘umms’ and ‘wells’ and you’ll be fine!
Those are my hot tips on how to land whatever awesome job you’re applying for. I hope these small things make a big difference for you. I know you’re going to do great and if you have any other questions you feel free to email me!*
*Unless it’s about applying at Pink Slip- we’ll be hiring soon and I promise to let you know as soon as we’re ready (around July 20th!) :)