How to Interview for a Manufacturing Job

Congratulations on your upcoming interview for a manufacturing job! An interview is your opportunity to show why you are the best candidate for the job. It is also the ideal time for you to evaluateho suitable the job is for you. Taking the time to prepare can help you have a successful interview.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Know your own experience. It is hard to know what questions the interviewer will ask. But the typical manufacturing job interview focuses on previous duties, skills and accomplishments. Review your job history and take note of the things that make you stand out as a good employee.
2. Learn about the job and company. Many interviewers provide an overview of the job, but if you still have questions at the end of the interview, ask. Some of the key things you may want to know are the work schedule, pay rate, benefits, dress code, training and growth opportunities.
3. Dress for success. Since the daily dress code for manufacturing jobs is typically casual, the interview attire does not have to be as formal as an office job. Each company has different expectations. A safe approach is to go with casual pants and a simple shirt with sleeves (women can wear pants or a skirt). Try to stay away from tank tops, t-shirts with elaborate patterns or words, torn jeans, flip-flops and hats.
4. Give yourself extra time to get to the interview. Add in extra time for unexpected events such as a traffic jam. Before leaving the house, look up the company’s address on a map so you know how to get there. Bring the company’s phone number with you in case you are delayed. It is better to call and say you are stuck behind an accident and running late, than to just show up late.

Tips & Warnings

• Make a good first impression by wearing appropriate attire for a manufacturing interview.
• When answering questions, give specific examples.
• Relax and be yourself.
• Don’t be late for the interview.
• Don’t provide false information.
• Try not to say negative things about previous employers.

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