I often find myself wondering what young people are thinking when they are looking for jobs. I don’t think I would be going out on a limb if I were to suggest that most employers are over 30 years old. Many are over 40. Think about their sensibilities and present yourself accordingly. Almost every day, I encounter young people seeking jobs. I see very few that interest me as prospects to hire. It is important to remember that even if you are seeking an entry level or low paying job, employers are looking for sharp looking and intelligent people. In some employee’s mind minimum wage means minimum effort. That mindset will guarantee failure in all future endeavors.
A Few Good Men
Several years ago, a Marine Corp. recruiting slogan stated that, “We’re looking for a few good men.” Trust me when I tell you that every employer in the world is looking for good people. Every day, some young person who hasn’t shaved in days and is wearing dirty clothes will walk up to me and ask if I am hiring. Why would a restaurant manager want to hire some non-hygienic riff-raff? If you are in an establishment where you would like to seek employment, look at the employees. How do they look? I would suggest looking as sharp as the best one you spot if you would like to discuss employment.
The Interview
The interview starts from the moment that you express interest in the job. Interaction with employees or anyone in the work area is being monitored. The way you should dress for an interview depends on the job you are seeking. A suit and tie isn’t necessary for a restaurant job, but as a rule you will want to dress on par with how people in the workplace are expected to dress. “Pants on the ground,” tank tops and facial piercings are no-no’s. If you have tattoos that offend your parent’s sensibilities, cover them up. Before you show up for the interview, consider the type of questions you will face and think about how you would respond. Be ready to ask a well thought out question about the position. I end most interviews with this: “Do you have any questions about the position?” An intelligent response to this question shows true interest in the job and is a big plus.
Pitfalls to Avoid
Don’t be desperate. It doesn’t help to tell the interviewer how bad you need a job. It is better to convince them that you have ideas and ambition that will bring improvement to the workplace. Keep in mind that the employer is hiring you to help them, not vice versa. Avoid being negative about why you left your last job. I’m never impressed when a prospect tells me how stupid their last boss was. You would be surprised how often I hear things of that nature. Another reason for leaving is because they didn’t get along with people at their last job. Hello?!
Winning Ideas
Be ready to speak about the good points of your prior workplace. Be prepared to draw on past experience to strengthen your case for being hired. Think of examples of how your strengths and experience would be value added in your new job. Avoid sucking up or unrealistic statements such as “ever since I was a young girl I’ve dreamed of washing dishes at Pizza Hut. As absurd as that sounds, I hear similar things frequently.
You should be able to recite a short biography of yourself. This is difficult for some people and should be practiced. It’s not easy to brag about yourself without sounding like a pompous windbag, so work on this. Your primary goal in the interview is to convince the employer that you have a positive attitude and are flexible and willing to learn.
