How to Interview For A Part-Time Job

It's important to make a good impression during the application and interview.

So you've found a fantastic part-time job that has everything you want: the right hours, the right pay and the right atmosphere. All that remains is to actually land it. There isn't any real difference between interviewing for a part-time position and a full-time position. Not working full-time hours doesn't mean you should be any less professional during the application and interview process.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Completed application
• Fact sheet
• Resume
• Ball-point pen in blue or black ink

Nailing That Part-Time Job

1. Apply like a professional. The application is usually a separate process from the actual interview, but you should be just as prepared as if you were going to meet the boss that day, according to the State of California Employment Development Division. Dress well, come alone and be friendly and respectful to the person who gives you the application, be it a clerk, receptionist or manager. How you present yourself may be passed along to the boss.

2. Research the company before the interview. According to the State of California Employment Development Division, the more you know about your potential employer, the better the impression you'll make during the interview. Discover the services and/or products the company offers, how old the company is and its growth trends, and what career opportunities are available within it.

3. Handle the interview process like a pro. Dress well, arrive alone and on time, greet your prospective employer with a firm handshake, and make eye contact during the interview. It helps to practice interviewing ahead of time, as some questions are conversation-stoppers --- like "Tell me about yourself." According to GrooveJob, it's best to give conversational answers that bring out a good quality about yourself. For instance, you might answer the above question in this way: "I ran the school newspaper during high school and learned a great deal about leadership," rather than, "Well, most people say I'm nice."

4. Be honest and upfront. Maybe there are a few concerns in your application, such as a long gap in your work history or a dismissal from a previous job. Answer questions about these concerns truthfully --- but, again, bring out a positive point. Outline what you learned during a dismissal, or what productive thing you did during a lapse in working, such as going back to school or volunteering.

5. Ask for a business card before you leave. After a few days have passed, send a thank-you note to the people who conducted your interview. According to the State of California Employment Development Division, this is a finishing touch that leaves a good impression on employers.

Tips & Warnings

• Your handwriting should be in print, clear and easy to read. Don't hand in a folded, crumpled application or a stained, old resume.

• Bring a "fact sheet." Most employers have their own applications for you to fill out, but bring a sheet with pertinent and personal information about yourself just in case, including your name, address, social security number and business references.

• Here's how to not get the job: show up late; dress casually; bring friends, parents or children; show complete disinterest throughout the interview and don't fill out your application properly. You're sure to walk away job-free.

References

• State of California Employment Development Department: Tips for Success -- Interview
• GrooveJob; Common Interview Questions to Expect and Prepare For; Silvana Clark
• State of California Employment Development Department: Tips for Success -- Application