Goals:

• describe activities in the interview process
• compare factors to consider when accepting a job
• identify attitudes and actions on the job

Key Terms:

• employment interview
• mentor
• exit interview

Securing a Job

• The Interview Process -  Your goal after submitting an application or a resume is to hear the words “We want to meet with you in person.” An employment interview is a two-way conversation in which the interviewer learns about you and you learn about the job and the company.
  Before You Interview – Prepare for an interview by obtaining more information about your prospective employer and the job for which you are applying. Prepare question to ask during the interview.
                  What training opportunities are available to employees?
                  What qualities do your most successful employees process?
                  What new opportunities are your company considering in the next few years?
  Successful interviewing require practice. Record yourself so you will answer questions in a smooth and complete manner. Prepare concise answers for specific questions you may be asked. Ask a friend to help you practice. Speak clearly and calmly. Be sure to communicate enthusiasm.
  You must make certain that you make a good first impression. It is very important to arrive on time and dress appropriately. Be sure you know how to get to the interview location and allow yourself plenty of time to get there. You should go alone to the interview even if someone else is driving you. Wear the type clothing that is appropriate for the company and the job fo which you are applying.
  During the Interview – the person interviewing you wants to learn about your mannerisms, you command of the English language, and your general ability for the job. An interviewer may take a number of different approaches. Most interviewers will try to put you at ease when the interview begins. Your interview may include questions or situations to determine how you react under pressure. Your answer to these questions must be in a controlled manner. Behavioral interviewing is expanding to better evaluate an applicant’s on-the-job potential. These questions will typically begin with “describe” or “tell me about…”
  Some employers use pre-employment tests to screen applicants for needed skills and abilities. Examples of pre-employment tests would included keyboarding, word processing, calculating, and other skills. The interviewer may review your test results and discuss specific job requirements with you.
  Avoid talking too much, but answer each question completely using good eye contact. Stay calm. Remember you are being asked questions on a subject  about which you are the world’s expert. You are being asked about you! Finally, thank the interviewer for the opportunity to discuss the job and your qualifications.
  After the Interview – within a day or two of the interview, send a follow-up letter (email) to express your appreciation for the opportunity to interview. Even if you don’t get the job, this thank-you letter will make a positive impression for future consideration.
  Evaluate your interview performance. What did you do well? Were you prepared? What areas can you improve? The more interviews you have, the better you will become at interviewing. More interviews will also increase your chance of being offered a job.
  Be patient after the interview. It may take several weeks for the company to complete all of its interviews and make its selection.
• Job Offers – “We would like you to work for us.” When you hear these words, remember to consider several factors before accepting or declining the position. The financial aspects of a jog should be assessed as well as some organizational factors.
  Salary and Financial Factors – The type of work and your experience will affect your rate of pay. The position may include employee benefits. Insurance, vacation time, and retirement programs are examples of employee benefits. Some companies offer free parking, onsite fitness centers  and other programs and services. Ask what benefits, services, and programs will be available to you and at what cost. Part-time and seasonal employees may or may not be offered benefits.
  Organizational Environment – The working environment must also be considered. Leadership style, dress code, the physical workspace, and the social atmosphere must be considered.
  Advancement potential and training programs should be assessed. Some companies take pride in promoting from within, while others choose to bring in new blood - outsiders. Does the company you are considering provide career and personal growth opportunities?
• On the Job Behavior – Attitude can make a big difference in your career success. A positive attitude helps you learn and cooperate with others. Always think, speak, dress, and act in ways that project a positive image. Then, you will likely find your job more satisfying and enjoyable.
  Job Success Strategies
                  Ask Questions – if you do not understand directions, have them repeated and listen
                  carefully. You will probably make mistakes in your new job. Everyone does. Just try to
                  learn from your mistakes and don’t repeat them.
                  Avoid Complaining – If you have more work to do than you have time to do it, talk to
                  your supervisor – not your peers.
                  Honor the time for breaks – don’t abuse rest periods and lunch breaks by extending the
                  time limit.
                  Consider your appearance – Dress neatly and be well groomed
                  Be on time – do not arrive late or leave early
                  Be friendly with everyone – Respect all of your coworkers and get along. Any coworker
                  may be of help to you in the future
                  Show you are dependable – do quality work and complete it on time. You are a part of
                  a team. Take pride in that. Pay attention to details. Return phone calls and emails
                  promptly to show that you care about your work.
                  Follow the rules – if a rule seems unfair or unreasonable, discuss it with others and find
                  out why it was created.
  A mentor is an experienced person who serves as a counselor to a person with less experience. Your mentor might help you develop skills needed in your current position and provide insight about future opportunities.
  Leaving a Job – When the time comes to leave a job, it is important to leave on good terms.
                  Give at least a two-week notice. Write a short, polite letter of resignation; include the
                  date of your last day at work.
                  Try to finish all of your current projects. If they are not completed, leave a note to the  
                  next person explaining where to begin.
                  If there is an exit interview, in which your employer asks questions about your work, be
                  courteous and cooperative.
                  Let coworkers know that you appreciated the opportunity to work with them.
  Leaving on a positive note is good for you and good for those you are leaving.

Assignments:

Go to Online Resources (see link below). Select Chapter 9.

1 - Click on and complete the Crossword Puzzle, When you are finished, print out your puzzle, write your name on it and turn it in for a grade.

2 - Click on Net Bookmarks, then click on http://rileyguide.com. Using this site explore at least two careers that currently interest you. After completing your research find three job openings that (if you satisfied the job requirements) would interest you. Using Word, write a paragraph explaining (if all three jobs were offered) which of them you you would choose and why.

3 - Click on Online Quiz Prep. Take the Web Quiz.  When your quiz score is displayed, call the teacher over to see and record your score.

4 - Click on Study Tools
      Complete Lessons 1 -4
       Lesson 1 - 1st Things First
       Lesson 2 - Test Your Knowledge
       Lesson 3 - Scenario
       Lesson 4 - Sort It Out

When your quiz scores are displayed, call the teacher over to see and record your scores.