​Job Interview

Job Interview. Your job search has come down to this. You need to ace this interview to get the job. At Spoon River College, we want to help you be your best during a job interview. We have compiled a list of what you need to do to prepare yourself for the interview process. You will need to put just as much time in preparing for an interview as you would have put in for your resume.
Here are some tips to EXECUTE to ensure a success job interview:

1. Arrive at least 10 minutes early to your job interview!
2. Never bring anybody else with you during a job interview.
3. Make it a point to smile and be polite to everyone you meet.
4. Stand up straight, look people in the eye, extend a firm handshake and offer a professional greeting when meeting someone for the first time. Project enthusiasm!
5. The handshake should be firm but not bone crushing. Pump twice and then release.
6. Don’t sit down until you are invited to sit down.
7. Address the interviewer as Ms. or Mr. unless they ask you to do otherwise.
8. Sit up straight, near the edge of your seat with both feet on the floor.
9. Establish a give and take conversation.
10. Don’t monopolize the conversation or interrupt the interviewer.
11. Never lie or exaggerate about yourself.
12. Have copies of your resume or portfolio with you.
13. Research the company beforehand.
14. Ask for a tour. Ask questions. This will show that you are interested and eager about working for them.
15. Remember to sell yourself.
16. The average job interview lasts 55 minutes. Use your time wisely.
17. This website has a list of questions that will be asked by the interviewer. Think about how you will answer them when they are asked.Interview Questions
18. Have a list of questions you would like to ask the interviewer. Here is a list of suggested questions you might ask: What to Ask the Interviewer

Follow Up Letter

If you are looking for something to set you apart from others, then be sure to send a thank you letter AFTER you interview. You have done so much work to get to this place; there is no need to stop now. If you EXECUTE this step, your chances of getting hired will increase. Less than half of the people who interview send a thank you letter. If you send a thank you follow up letter then you will edge out the competition. However, you may wonder what to put in a follow up thank you letter. It is easy. Here are some tips to get you started:

• Keep it brief. Thank the manager for taking the time to interview you.
• Do it the same day you get home from the interview. Mail it immediately.
• If you want the job, tell them that. If you don’t want to job, still thank them for their time and ask that they remove your name from consideration.
• If during the interview, the interviewer mentioned a problem or concern with something, try to let them know in the letter a way they can solve the problem or elevate their concern. Or you could emphasize how well you would fit into their company with your experience and background.
• You closing should say that you are looking forward to hearing from them. You might even be as bold to say that you will call them in the next few days. If you do say that you are going to call, then FOLLOW UP.
• Your letter should be on the same paper as your resume and cover letter.
• Be sure to sign the letter.

Job Fairs

Have you ever attended a Job Fair before? If not, Spoon River College, in partnership with other Community Agencies, hosts a Job Fair every year in the Fall and Spring. Job Fairs are a great way to find out what types of jobs are out there in your community. It also gives you the opportunity to gather more information about companies in your area that are hiring. Job Fairs are also a great way to build a network of contacts. Just like an interview, you need to prepare yourself for a job fair. Treat it like a first interview. This is your opportunity to make a great first impression. Remember to dress appropriately. Bring copies of your resume and a portfolio if applicable. Be prepared to fill out applications. Find out what employers will be there and map out a strategy. Go to the employers that you are most interested in first. Practice a quick sales pitch when talking with employers. Take business cards. Send thank you letters to companies you are interested in. The room will be noisy, so try to not get distracted. Do not grab any free promotional items off the table. EXECUTE.

Next Job Fair:   Wednesday, April 10th, 2013 Donaldson Center (Wallace Park)  Canton

More Details

Requirements for the Student Trainee Program are:

• Must have a cumulative 2.8 GPA on a 4.0 scale as reflected on an official transcript. (No rounding!)
• Must be 16 years of age
• Full time student, currently enrolled as a community college freshman or sophomore
• Must meet Caterpillar’s criteria regarding specific job fields (Accounting, Clerical, Information Technology or Engineering)
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States

Opportunities in the following areas:

Accounting- Basic Accounting, Basic Accounts Receivable, Basic Bank Reconciliation

Clerical- Proficient in Typing and Computer Software Knowledge, Data Entry, Filing, Answering Phones, Scheduling Meetings, Distribute Mail, Operate Copy machine, Maintain Office Supplies, etc.

Technical- Engineering- CAD, Engineering, manufacturing, Logistics, Electronics, PRO-E
Technical- IT- Personal Computer Support, Web site Maintenance, Rework Computer Hardware, Basic Electric Experience in Lab, HTML, Install Computer Hardware/Software