JOB INTERVIEWS; how do i respond when interviewers ask about previous employment if i have none?
CAPS asked:
I am nineteen years old and haven’t got any work experience. What should i say when i am asked “Tell me about yourself / Why should we hire you”, etc. Any help would be much appreciated!
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I am nineteen years old and haven’t got any work experience. What should i say when i am asked “Tell me about yourself / Why should we hire you”, etc. Any help would be much appreciated!
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August 6th, 2009 at 1:58 pm
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Be up-front. Tell them you have no work experience and are looking forward to any opportunity they can give you to get experience. If you have any volunteer experience tell them about that.
“Tell me about yourself / Why should we hire you” doesn’t necessarily ask “what jobs have you done” but why should they hire you as a person.
August 8th, 2009 at 5:35 pm
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Everyone has to start somewhere, so not having any experience isn’t surprising at your age. However, you should still tell them about your qualities/skills that would make you a good choice for the position you are applying…
Some examples of general job skills that are usually desirable are:
Being prompt (getting to work on time)
Good organizational skills
Works well alone or with others
Good problem solving skills
Relates well to people
Available to work various hours/days (not too picky about your schedule)
…and then you can mention any other skills you have that may help you with the particular job you are seeking. If you are applying for a data entry job, can you type and run a 10-key by touch? If you are applying for a sales job, do you know the merchandise?
Sell the skills you have that pertain to the job you want…you don’t have to have previous employment experience to do that.
Good luck!
August 10th, 2009 at 6:20 pm
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Just let them know of any education or volunteer work. I heard that volunteer work looks better on your resume than previous employment.