I know this is going to sound lame but I have never had a job interview. I always get jobs handed to me. I like to pretend it is because I look extremely competent (ha ha ha). Even my stint as a substitute teacher materialized out of thin air. That is why the job search thing has been somewhat nerve wracking for me. I did get my first interview with an organization I would be proud to represent. If I get the job (or from my point of view- if I choose to take the job offered) then I would be working with children with autism or mental illness. I get the impression that the autism they see isn’t because the kid is autistic but rather the behavior has become a problem. It is not a drug rehab or anything like that but it is a hospital/school setting where some of the children do live there. Lots of therapy and behavior mod. Just the kind of job I was looking for. The man that contacted me asked me to come in on monday and maybe shadow another employee for a few hours to see if the job is to my liking. What do you think? I am nervous about making a good impression but not because I am afraid he won’t offer me the job. I think the job will be mine if I truly want it. I just don’t want to look like a bitch nor do I want the employer to think I am arrogant and will come in with a bunch of demands. Plus I don’t want to screw up any of the kids. Any advice would be most welcome. Especially those of you who have had a job interview before.
7 responses so far ↓
FindingHeart // August 5, 2007 at 2:51 am
My 2 cents: Turning down a job by saying, “What, you f’ing kidding?! I don’t want your stupid job!” may just look arrogant. Somehow, I just don’t see you doing that.
The opportunity to shadow gives you (and them) a graceful out in case you misunderstood the actual job descrip or setting. At the end of the day, if you don’t want it, Daphne can kick her spurs and say nice things about the place, but regretfully say that it isn’t a match for what you need/were looking for.
Any good employer doesn’t want to hire someone without kicking their tires and seeing if they fit with the other employees. Speak your mind, be confident, and you won’t have to worry about coming across badly.
Good luck!!
Jayleigh // August 5, 2007 at 1:14 pm
**big hugs**
You are such a precious person, Daphne! I love that you’ve never had to interview before.
My best advice is to have a list of questions about the job, and the company. It shows that you’re interested and have done some research on their company ahead of time.
**hugs**
Good luck!
Otherwise, I agree with everything FindingHeart said.
Rick // August 5, 2007 at 4:23 pm
Sounds to me like the job is yours for the taking. Just relax, be yourself, and focus on the job shadow to make sure the facility/staff is right for you . That’s the best thing for all concerned, including the kids.
Al // August 6, 2007 at 3:47 pm
Sounds like the job is yours if you want it. It also sounds like a good fit for you.
Relax and enjoy it.
Simple American // August 6, 2007 at 8:56 pm
Just relax and be you. Answer the questions honestly. And remember they are interviewing you, but you in turn are also interviewing them.
Simple American // August 16, 2007 at 3:27 pm
How did it go? Been missing your posting.
In case you have been suffering writer’s block. I have tagged you. You know help write your way out of the block.
Kunstemaecker // September 28, 2007 at 6:10 am
That’s cool.
I’ve done some interviews myself and I always end up getting the job (with one unfortunate exception but that’s another story).