By Maria Till

Of the Gleaner

Even though summer still seems far away, it is really right around the corner. With no school, everyone has more free time, but summer activities such as concerts and amusement parks, can get to be expensive. A summer job is a great financial solution, but preparing for a job interview is easier said than done. So much thought goes into what to wear, say, and how to act…

Before even landing an interview, most employers require an application to be filled out. Job applications in themselves tend to be very stressful, so taking your time when filling them out is crucial. This is when all your second grade penmanship practice helps. One of the most important aspects of filling out an application is making sure you use your absolute best handwriting. Filling it out in pen is a must, so making an extra copy to write a rough draft is smart to avoid too many white out marks. Eliminating all spelling and grammar mistakes is another thing to watch for completing the process.

This is probably the only time it is okay to boost that ego of yours. It’s important to focus on all of your good qualities and accomplishments. Proving you are more than qualified for the job is critical when employers are separating applications.

After landing a job interview, it’s all about being polite and being on your best behavior. Make sure you know exactly what time you are supposed to arrive, and come five or ten minutes earlier to show you are more than ready and determined for this job.

Do:

Wear nice clothes, think church clothes, (even a school uniform has landed me a few jobs).

Prepare in advance, maybe Google popular job interview questions so nothing catches you off guard.

Be polite. You should be radiating positivity and professionalism.

Know your schedule ahead of time because they will ask your availability, and the more flexible you are with your schedule, the better.

Turn off your phone. This is an absolute positive must, you do not want your interview to be interrupted or seem distracted.

Don’t:

Wear everyday clothes. No jeans, sweats, shorts, tank tops, hats, flip-flops, etc., and girls, keep your hair out of your face. They want to be able to keep eye contact to show you are interested in what they have to say.

Forget your manners. Don’t slouch. Say “yes” and “no” instead of “yeah/yep” and “nah/nope,”  and don’t use slang or swear.

After your interview, it’s alway nice to thank whoever interviewed you for giving you time. Writing a thank you note a week later or even an email to express your gratitude shows professionalism. It is also smart to call a week after to ask about the position you applied for and let them know you had an interview. When you follow through, remind them of your clearly amazing personality and how determined you are for the job.

All of these tips for a successful job search and interview should solve your solution to extra spending money this summer.