Interviews can be a make-or-break factor when it comes to hiring for a job opportunity. While having a great resume will help you get an interview, it alone won’t secure you the job. That’s why we have compiled a list of interview tips when it comes to performing well during your interview.
Do Your Diligence
Before attending any interview make sure you do your research on the company beforehand. Not only will this help you decide if the company is up to your standards but it will also help you anticipate the types of questions they may ask during the interview. We recommend checking out the company's website and have a clear understanding of the job description and how it relates to your skillset.
Create A Resume
Resumes aren’t just for the corporate world. Interviewees will want an understanding of your skill sets and experience. Craft your resume to the job description so that your skills relate directly to what they are looking for. For each application, you may need to tailor your resume slightly by explaining your answers differently or providing concrete examples of how you have demonstrated the skills they are looking for at a previous company.
Blue Collar Job Interview Questions:
Question 1: Tell me about yourself
- Without a doubt, this will be the first question you face during your interview. This question is mostly used as an icebreaker and will allow you to get comfortable with the interviewee. The best way to answer is by giving a quick background of yourself and what led you to the position you are applying for.
Question 2: What did you do at your old job
- Since you just spoke about your background the interviewee will most likely ask you about your previous job. They want to get to know how your experience in the field relates to the job they have posted. They may also ask you why you left your last position. Here is where you can be honest about your past work and name the reasons why you left your job. Do not bad mouth your former employer or co-workers.
Question 3: What Can You Bring To This Company
- This is a great time to tell them why you would be suitable for the position as well as some of your strengths and weaknesses you dealt with prior.
Question 4: Why are you suited for this job?
- While they may have your CV I would clarify everything you did not add. Any extra information you can provide them/certificates or things you learned from your previous employment that you can help them with.
Question 5: What hours can you work? Or When can you start?
- Be honest! This question will most likely end the interview and allows you to present your interest or desire to work for the company. If you currently have a job tell the interviewee that you need to give two weeks notice. Always try to leave your current job on good terms! You never know if you will need a reference or a job again!
Don’t Forget To Ask Questions
People often forget that interviewing is a two-way street. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and make sure that the position and company you are applying for is the right fit for you.
What To Wear to A Blue Collar Job Interview
First impressions are everything when it comes to nailing a job interview. While your handshake, eye contact, and self-awareness are key factors, the way you dress says a lot about who you are as a person. While blue-collar job interviews are less formal than corporate ones, we still say to dress to impress. While you don’t need to wear a suit, we do suggest a nice pair of non-ripped jeans and a collared shirt. Pair your outfit with nice close-toed shoes.
If you’re debating whether or not something is appropriate we recommend erring on the side of caution and setting it aside for time with friends.
What Not To Wear For A Blue Collar Job Interview
We all know you should dress to impress no matter what type of job you are trying to apply for. So, now that we’ve talked about what TO wear to a blue-collar job interview let's talk about attire that you should stray away from.
Keep your clothing choices clean and rip-free. Meaning, no clothes that are stained, ripped or have holes. We also suggest that you do not wear tank tops, shorts, flip flops, or slippers to your interview.
There are many do’s and don’t when it comes to dressing for both a corporate job and a blue-collar job. To make the best first impression, always choose to dress up rather than down.
Keep it clean and simple and aim to overdress rather than underdress.