It’s often said that you never get a second chance to make a first impression. So make it count! Everyone wants to be at their best when they are being interviewed for a job. But what does that mean exactly? Employers are looking for specific things in a job interview.
At Friday Services, it has been our mission to help people in Western North Carolina find the right job, ever since the first day we were founded in 1981. Our staffing agency has interviewed, hired, and placed thousands of North Carolinians in jobs throughout our region. To help you be your best in your next interview, our team of hiring experts will share their tips to help you walk in for an interview and walk out with a job.
Treat Every Phone Conversation Like an Interview
When it comes to getting a job, your interview begins the first time you make contact with the employer. Always be kind and courteous, beginning with your first phone conversation. If you’re applying for a clerical position, exercising proper phone etiquette is especially important as your responsibilities will likely include answering calls and making appointments.
Arrive on Time
Punctuality is the key to making a good first impression at your interview. Plan to arrive a few minutes early in case there’s any traffic or travel delays. Being on time shows that you respect the schedules of others and it’s a good indicator of whether or not you’ll be tardy for work.
Pay Attention
When you meet the person who will be conducting the interview, give them a firm handshake and make eye contact. It’s okay to be shy, but be sure any nervousness is not interpreted as boredom. It’s important to be absolutely present during the entire interview.
Turn Your Phone Off
Keep your cell phone tucked away. One of the biggest complaints by hiring managers in today’s technological age is phone use during an interview. Resist the temptation to pull out your phone by turning it off. If you can’t do that then definitely keep it on silent so you aren’t distracted by the sounds of incoming calls and texts.
Dress Appropriately
While a suit and tie are not necessary, a polo shirt and khakis or collared shirt and jeans combo show the hiring manager that you’re ready to get to work. Avoid wearing a T-shirt and sweatpants. For industrial jobs, you can potentially come in for an interview and walk out with a job. Be sure to find out if it’s necessary for you to keep steel-toed boots in the car in case you begin the industrial job that day.
Office job candidates should always come to interviews dressed in business casual attire. If you are interviewing at the Friday Services office for a clerical job, come dressed as you would for your first day of work. You may be sent to meet an employer or begin a working interview on the same day.
The Friday Services Interview Process
Our interview can last anywhere from an hour and a half to two hours. Arrange your schedule so that you don’t have to rush out at a certain time. When you arrive at Friday Services, you’ll be asked to demonstrate proficiency on the computer in certain areas, depending on what kind of positions you’re applying for. If you’re applying for a clerical job, for example, you’ll be required to take tests that are specific to those positions, such as grammar, typing, ten-key, and proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Word software. Candidates will also watch an educational video by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
What to Bring to the Interview
When it comes to a job, getting paid is important, right? Be sure to bring your direct deposit information with you as you will need to enter it into the system. It is required that the bank account be in your name.
After a few assessments and forms, you’ll meet with a Staffing Generalist for the interview portion. It’s an added bonus if you come with appropriate questions to create healthy dialogue. Here are some common interview questions and how to best answer them.
If you have a resume, bring it with you. When you arrive at Friday Services, be able to prove current contact information for at least two professional or personal references. Consider these 5 tips when selecting your references.
Ready to Apply?
Apply for a new job today! Fill out the Friday Services online job application. Our hope is that every person searching for a new career or position can find what they’re looking for on our online job listings page. We have openings for all levels of experience, from entry-level to advanced. We’re excited to meet you!
