Interview tomorrow, advice needed!

leaveiton

I just got a call from a shop that I applied to for part-time work saying that I have an interview tomorrow! I haven't had a job or been for an interview before so I'm a little bit worried.

Firstly I don't really have references sorted, which I know is terrible. I always just put "References are available on request" on my CV. I could ask in school no problem but I'm not sure who exactly to ask. And if they need another reference I'm not sure what I'm going to do.

I also don't think I have anything suitable to wear. I have a couple of options: A black dress (which I think is a bit low cut, may also be a bit too short as it doesn't go quite to my knee), a white blouse and a black/grey skirt (Again I'm afraid that the skirt might be too short), or a while blouse and black trousers. I'm leaning towards the trousers although they are a bit wide, not the best fit on me. Also if I go for the dress/skirt, someone told me that I shouldn't wear black tights, I should wear nude tights. Is that at all true? I will probably wear the trousers, but just in case I decide the skirt/dress would be a better option.

Finally, what exactly can I expect from the interview, and what kind of questions should I prepare to be asked? Or if anyone has any other advice that I haven't thought of, feel free to let me know. Thanks!

Mr. Loverman

leaveiton wrote: »

Firstly I don't really have references sorted, which I know is terrible. I always just put "References are available on request" on my CV. I could ask in school no problem but I'm not sure who exactly to ask. And if they need another reference I'm not sure what I'm going to do.

Tell them you will ring them later today/tomorrow with the reference details as you want to just contact the referees first so they know to expect a call.

leaveiton wrote: »

I also don't think I have anything suitable to wear. I have a couple of options: A black dress (which I think is a bit low cut, may also be a bit too short as it doesn't go quite to my knee), a white blouse and a black/grey skirt (Again I'm afraid that the skirt might be too short), or a while blouse and black trousers. I'm leaning towards the trousers although they are a bit wide, not the best fit on me. Also if I go for the dress/skirt, someone told me that I shouldn't wear black tights, I should wear nude tights. Is that at all true? I will probably wear the trousers, but just in case I decide the skirt/dress would be a better option.

Dress conservative. No boobs or thighs!

leaveiton wrote: »

Finally, what exactly can I expect from the interview, and what kind of questions should I prepare to be asked? Or if anyone has any other advice that I haven't thought of, feel free to let me know. Thanks!

First impression is super important. Be polite and respectful and positive. The questions you can ask are the genuine questions you are probably wondering about (overtime, full-time work during the holidays, dress code, etc.), but don't ask about salary yet.

Some more advice here: http://www.dublinjobs.ie/interview-advice/

HOS 1997

In regards to references, ask a teacher in school who you have a good relationship with to provide a personal reference. If they are looking for a second one, is there any groups/clubs you are involved in, someone there may be provide one for you.

If you haven't worked before your potential employers will understand your situation.

It's not something to be worried about.

Good luck!

leaveiton

Thank you both Mr. Loverman, that link is very helpful, thank you!

Just on the subject of references, I have an idea of who I'd ask to give me one. Would it just be a case of asking them if they'd oblige and then letting them know to expect a call?

Clamball

I would go with the shirt/trousers option. As long as you look neat & clean, If you are uncomfortable in a too short skirt and make any attempt to pull it down it will draw attention to it.

They will realise it is your first job and that you have no experience so they are fine with that if they are giving you an interview. They will ask you hours you can work, late, early, weekends etc. They will want to find out what type of worker are you, clean, neat, fast, quick, energetic, happy, caring, helpful, not easily flustered, like to be busy etc etc. It really depends on what type of job you are going for. If it is in a shop, helpful, organised, tidy, careful with money, like meeting people, happy to be on feet all day. If it is as a waitress, cheerful, enjoy talking to people, organised, observant etc. It really depends on the job and what type of person would be good at that job.

Be sure to find out from them what the job entails, what are your duties, what is expected of you, who will be there to teach you, or ask for help. What other jobs are there and how the job you are applying for fits in. Be enthusiastic and best of luck.

For the references, just pick an adult who is not related to you who you will think can say good things about you. The parent of a friend or a teacher would be a good idea.

HOS 1997

leaveiton wrote: »

Thank you both

Just on the subject of references, I have an idea of who I'd ask to give me one. Would it just be a case of asking them if they'd oblige and then letting them know to expect a call?

Yes. Or you could ask them for a written reference.

leaveiton

Just to say thanks to everyone for the help and advice. It all came to nothing in the end though as the interview was cancelled indefinitely At least now I'm a bit more prepared in case I get another sudden call for an interview.