Job Interview Tips for a Cake Decorator
Because a cake decorating job requires creativity, it's important to be especially open to others' ideas when interviewing for this job. This isn't like applying for a job as an accountant. Be relaxed but professional; show work samples and your knowledge of styles and icing treatments in a confident but not arrogant way; ask intelligent, relevant questions about how the kitchen operates; show enthusiasm for new approaches; and listen carefully to what kinds of traits and skills the employer wants.
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Be Honest
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When the interviewer asks about your previous work experience, don't lie about what you have accomplished. If you do, another question asking you to go more into detail about your experience only shows your inexperience as you stumble to answer the question. Talk about your actual experience and follow it up with what you want to accomplish. Your willingness to learn and set goals for yourself looks much better than being caught in a lie.
Showcase Your Talent
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Be prepared with a professional portfolio that showcases your talents as a cake decorator. Provide your potential employer with pictures of cakes that you have decorated. Include pictures that show different angles. Showcase photos of detailed cake decoration and different icing styles. You don't have to have a portfolio full of professional work. Use photos of cakes you decorated for fun and photos of professional cakes you have decorated.
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Share Ideas and be Passionate
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Be open about what ideas you have or want to try if you're hired. Share ideas for new decorating techniques or ways you believe current techniques can be improved. Ask how the kitchen and decorating staff are run. Ask what goals your employer wants the decorating staff to accomplish. Think of ways to help your potential employer meet those goals. Be creative with your suggestions. When you show interest in the job, your potential employer picks up on your enthusiasm. Thoughtful ideas show that you're passionate about the job.
Be Approachable and Professional
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Although professionalism is expected and considered good business etiquette, coming across as cold or unapproachable lessens your chances of getting the job. Cake decorators are creative. Decorators must speak to customers in order to fully understand the decorative direction the customer wants. You lessen your chances of getting the job if you give the impression that you're not good with customers and other people. Maintain a professional manner around your potential employer, but smile and be confident as you are interviewed.
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References
Resources
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