Welcome to a new limited series! For the next several weeks I’ll be sharing tips and advice from local professionals on topics that might not have been covered in your schooling. Whether you’re a teen getting ready to strike out on your own or an adult who hasn’t had someone whom to ask these questions, the library is here for you! These teen events are happening in person at the West End Branch on a set of Mondays at 4pm. The blog posts are for any teens that can’t attend or any adults who’d like the information as well.
Our specialists
Beth Morris – I am the Youth Services Coordinator for the Richmond Public Library. I have been in this position since 2013. Prior to working in the library, I thought 3rd-5th grade for 20 years. The best part of both of these jobs is working with youth of all ages. Whether it is learning how to read, finding that perfect book, or capturing their attention with an experiment. My motto is “you are never too young or old to learn something new.”
Lisa Crisman – Library Community Services Manager at the West End Branch. My library life began as a school librarian, then a children’s librarian and youth services coordinator. I still find picture books to be my favorite! Love cooking, gardening, travel and reading, especially if it’s while sitting on a beach by the ocean.
Let’s start with first impressions. What are some of the first things you pay attention to about someone when setting up the initial interview?
Beth – The first thing I listen for when setting up an interview is the person’s voice. By that I mean are they polite and speak in a normal tone. I also like when they repeat the set of directions or time and place of interview so you know they were paying attention.
Lisa – First impressions include appearance. It doesn’t have to be fancy or formal, just neat and a reflection of work attire.
Okay, next up, what do you notice when they arrive for the interview?
Beth – The first thing I notice when they arrive is their outfit. Is it appropriate for a job interview? They should be dressed in business casual at the least. No holes in clothes or looking like they are going to the beach or club afterwards.
Lisa – Timeliness; completion of any preliminary tasks, i.e. a storytime sample, if required.
We often hear about interview “red flags” (inappropriate questions about race, religion, age, gender identity or sexual orientation, or marital status; either party arriving late; poor listening/communication skills; hiring on the spot), what would you consider to be “green flags”?
Beth – Green Flags to me are people who shake your hand, say hello and introduce themselves. I like when people take the initiative to speak up and not just wait for the interviewer to ask who they are.
Lisa – Enthusiasm, thoughtful responses, taking time to “digest” the questions; asking for clarification, if needed.
Generally speaking, how in-depth would you like people’s answers to be in response to your questions?
Beth – I think people need to speak to answer the question. It is very helpful if they go into some details so the interviewer knows they know what they are taking about. Sometimes that’s just two sentences and sometimes it could be several minutes worth. Just DON’T keep repeating the information you have already said.
Lisa – Just enough to answer the question. Often folks will get distracted or include info that doesn’t pertain to the question. Ask to repeat the question, if needed.
Are there questions that you’d like to see people ask *the employer* during the interview?
Beth – Most interviews end with a ” Do you have any questions for us?” I think it is important for interviewees to write down questions they want answered before even getting to the interview. That way as questions are being answered, they can jot down the response. Then any questions that haven’t been answered, or popped up due to other questions/answers, can be asked. Please don’t ask questions that have already been answered in length again unless you really need clarification.
Lisa – I’m happy to receive questions at the end of an interview. Starting date, expectations, brief questions about current staff are always welcome. Anything I can’t answer I will direct to HR.
What are your thoughts on applicants reaching out post-interview?
Beth – I think it is really a great idea to reach out after an interview. It shows the company that you are really interested in the position. Wait one to two days then send a follow up email to thank them for their time. That being said, you should not hound the company with multiple emails.
Lisa – I appreciate the interest and do not mind a call on the status of a hire. HR is often not timely and does not notify all applicants if a decision has been made. I also don’t mind directing to HR if I cannot answer the question.
Closing up, what words of encouragement would you offer for someone nervous about an interview?
Beth – Breathe. Just breathe. We all get nervous at times. Just take a breath and remember these are people just like you. Give them respect and you will get the same.
Lisa – Read the job description, think about your relevant experience and work history, including any volunteer or school related experience. Take a deep breath and it will be fine.
Summary
To sum up: keep your eyes and ears open, be clear about your expectations and experience, communicate to the best of your ability, and then know you’ve done what you can. Below is a handful of our physical resources and our digital resources are linked here. The non-fiction are great resources for your job search and the fiction are written in interview-style and for fun. Best of luck to everyone!
