Job interviews

[entropy]

On Wednesday I have an interview at Applebee's and on Thursday one with Fleet Farm. I'm thinking, if I get hired, I could take both, make extra money. I seriously need the money, to start saving for college/get a decent vehicle/possibly a computer.

But last time I went somewhere, Target to be specific, I had an interview that was out of this world. They must've asked me 50+ questions, and it was a two-parter - I talked to a submanager or something, and then the manager. Very, very nerve racking, especially since I wasn't ready for it. I expected to be called after doing the app, but they just took me back right away. I obviously didn't get that job.

A couple of my friends have said they either didn't have an interview, or it was incredibly informal (meeting a manager in the hallway, and talking for a few minutes). I'm basically a nervous wreck, as I'm confident I can do the job(s), I just hate being put under a microscope.

Now, what I'm wondering is how bad (or good) your interviews have gone. Also, any pointers? I know smile, firm handshake, good posture, all that stuff, but anything else?

I know most of you are already working and/or have an actual career, and that I'm relatively late to be first getting a job, but that doesn't do anything to make it less unnerving.

[shwaip]

I don't know what kind of job you're going to get, but assuming you're hiring to be a busboy/waiter at applebee's, try to show characteristics that will make them want you. People want to be served by a friendly/cheerful/happy waiter. Don't answer their questions minimally, try to explain why you answer yes or no. Make sure your hair looks nice and shave. If you can't answer one of their questions, say so. Don't make something up and look like a fool if you're wrong. Act interested in what they have to say.

[primesuspect]

Just be confident, presentable, and articulate. Don't make jokes, don't try to be cool. You'll do fine :)

[CB]

Yea, I worked at Applebees for awhile. My interview was a three minute conversation with one of the assistant managers... Basically he wanted to know if I had a reliable way to get to work...

[Nomad]

I've been interviewed like three or four times now by different people, guys who make millions and don't have time for crap and the one thing I've always noticed is the thing that they look for: Eye contact. When I talk to people, even those I know well, I have a tendency to drift my eyes because of uneasyness, but in a business meeting always make eye contact with the person you're talking to. However, don't give them the thousand yard stare or make it seem like you're a lion about to go into attack mode.

Be firm. Be presentable. Be on time.

[Donut]

I've been interviewed like three or four times now by different people, guys who make millions and don't have time for crap and the one thing I've always noticed is the thing that they look for: Eye contact. When I talk to people, even those I know well, I have a tendency to drift my eyes because of uneasyness, but in a business meeting always make eye contact with the person you're talking to. However, don't give them the thousand yard stare or make it seem like you're a lion about to go into attack mode.

Be firm. Be presentable. Be on time.

Working construction most of my life, I agree with Nomad. Just like to add 1 more.

Be ready to go to work.

Many times I've shown up on a job looking for work, and less than an hour later be working.

[entropy]

I start the fifth at Fleet Farm, assuming I get my work permit from school.

If all goes well, by that Saturday night, I should have earned $161. They might give me less for training (I think they can, legally), but still. That's way more than I expected, especially at my first job.

I've still got the Applebee's one, waiting for them to let me know when orientation is. I'm not sure if I should do both, or just drop it at Applebee's. Judging how often my friend works, and now that they've hired probably 3 new hosts, I don't know if I'd be working a whole lot anyway. We'll see.

Thanks for your advice, though, guys. These people were much more relaxed and personable than the one at Target was - that one got me way too nervous.

[empty]

I worked at Target and got the job, they did ask a lot of questions. Couple of pointers be professional give them a good handshake and make eye contact. When they ask questions try your best to give them the answer they want to hear.

[primesuspect]

Congrats on landing BOTH jobs, Entropy.. We knew you could do it though :p

[dragonV8]

Great news Entropy. :thumbsup:

[RiversCuomo]

Great job! I remember my first interview, the woman asked me if i had any previous jobs and I said no. So she asked if I mow my lawn and I said yeah then she says "How would your parents say you mow the lawn?" "What are some flaws you have when you mow the lawn" I about crapped myself in disbelief of this rediculous question....I said "ermmm....I...uh...cut corners sometimes?" I had no idea what she was asking so I just said something stupid, I dont even cut the corners... Wendy's is going to hell anyways. Well great job!

[EMT]

Is Fleet Farm the same as Farm & Fleet? Great store in Urbana (IL).

[entropy]

They're the same exact concept, but different owners, I think.