Name: _______________________________ Teacher: ____________________________
SENIOR PORTFOLIO CHECKLIST
Please place this sheet inside the front cover pocket of your portfolio.
THE PORTFOLIO MUST BE SEQUENCED IN THE FOLLOWING ORDER
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Cover (Includes title and name. Appropriate graphics or artwork encouraged.) 10 Points
Personal Statement
50 Points
Employer Cover Letter (to a potential employer)
20 Points
Resume (max. one page)
30 Points
List of References (minimum of two)
5 Points
(contacts and potential networking)
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


College Description Printout (Career Center)
College Inquiry Letter (Career Center)
Scholarship Inquiry Letter (Career Center)
FAFSA Pin
Career Description Printout (Career Center)
Internet Research on Career (Career Center)
Courses Taken (Sequential Listing of Courses taken 9th – 12th graders)
Transcript
Work Samples or Projects
5 Points
5 Points
5 Points
5 Points
5 Points
5 Points
10 Points
5 Points
5 Points
(reports, research, pictures, writing samples, etc)
 Work Sample Summary
 Professional Thank You Letter
 Minimum Two Letters of Recommendation
40 Points
10 Points
20 Points
(Teacher or Employer)
 Career Job Shadow Reflection Summary
 CD/DVD/Jump Drive etc.
 Section Dividers
 Awards/Certificates (From 9th -12th grade which will contribute
50 Points
5 Points
5 Points
to and enhance your portfolio) OPTIONAL
 Interview Questions/Tips (Place in back pocket of Binder)
30 Points
DUE DATE: __________________________________
All portfolio components are to be computer generated, preferably with laser
printer, Sheet Protectors recommended. The Fonts chosen will be consistent
of your documents.
Rev 5/07
INTRODUCTION TO THE PERSONAL STATEMENT ESSAY
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA PROMPTS
If you are applying to the UC system, you will write three essays totaling 1000 words.
-
One essay should be at least 600 words (Your choice of the three prompts)
The remaining two should be 200 words each.
Question #1
How have you taken advantage of the educational opportunities you have had to prepare for college?
They don’t want to read all about the AP’s he or she has taken.
o Maybe an internship
o Maybe a class at a community college
o Maybe a summer program
o Maybe a shy student challenged himself to run for an office and join ASB
Question#2
Tell us about a talent, experience, contribution, or personal quality you will bring to the University of
California. They are looking for the individual who will give back to the community, state, and nation.
Show progression/ growth/ potential
o Maybe member of club to officer to president of club
o Maybe an extra in a play to lead actor
o Looking for 9th, 10th, 11th, to 12th involvement versus one day I cleaned up the city
o Show growth in involvement
o Just doing it in 11th or 12th is less effective
Question #3
Is there anything you would like us to know about you or your academic record that you have not had
to opportunity to describe elsewhere in the application? Reflect carefully on how you have chosen to
spend your time and what you have accomplished. Write in your own voice, speaking honestly about
yourself and where you have come from. UC wants to know who you are.
o Avoid lists of accomplishments
o Give concrete examples to support your assertions.
Remember- no single perfect personal statement exists. There is only the personal statement that is
right for the person submitting it.
INTRODUCTION TO THE PERSONAL STATEMENT ESSAY
ALTERNATIVE TO UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA PROMPTS
Write a 5 or more paragraph essay.
Describe and analyze three meaningful experiences in your life that have impacted the formulation of
your character. They might be positive experiences such as travel to a foreign country, an achievement
that you are proud of or a positive relationship in your life. On the other hand, they might be negative
experiences such as a brush with death, a family trauma or an unhappy relationship.
For each experience (and, therefore, for each body paragraph), describe the experience, analyze how
this experience helped develop a certain character trait (such as independence, tolerance or patience),
and project how this trait might make you more marketable or desirable to a potential employer or a
college admission representative.
THE PERSONAL STATEMENT ESSAY TUTORIAL
Rational: This is an opportunity to share an important aspect of your schooling or your life such as:
1.
2.
3.
personal circumstances
family experiences
opportunities that were or were not available at your school
ANALYSIS AND REFLECTION ARE KEY! What talent, experience, contribution, or personal quality
best expresses my character? What about ME deserves further explanation? How does it define my ability to
contribute? Some areas to explore/brainstorm:
1. Sports activities and accomplishments or one significant sporting event
2. Music – For example, why is performing or writing music important to you? Why is it your
passion?
3. Theater – Do you have a passion for the theater? Film, any of the arts?
4. Do you come from an unusual background? Do you speak other languages? Or are in any way
responsible for any of your family members?
5. Traveling – Is there a travel experience that is especially meaningful to you? Has this affected your
life in any way?
6. Are you involved in any aspect of community service? How has this influenced you?
7. Have you had to overcome a hardship that you are comfortable talking about?
8. Are you involved with or been involved with an unusual activity, such as the Y Circus, extreme
sports, The Explorer Program, etc.
9. Do you love animals? Are they an important part of your life? How so?
10. Are you a writer? What do you write and why do you write?
11. Are you an artist? What is your medium? Who influenced you?
SAMPLE PERSONAL STATEMENT ESSAY
Although my parents are now both employed, my family has had to struggle in order to survive. I am
the oldest of six, and because our family income does not support us adequately, I work part-time to
provide food and shelter for us. Working has taught me to stay disciplined and to use my time
appropriately. As a result, I have been able to maintain high academic achievement while supporting
my family.
Although I do not plan to major in veterinary science, my experiences raising and caring for animals
have helped me understand how important animals are to human well-being. Because I have seen the
result of human disregard for other forms of live, I am better able to appreciate the importance of
ethical treatment for all.
Although my school does not offer Advanced Placement Spanish, I wanted to master Spanish so that I
could enrich my understanding of the literature of Latin America.
Tutorial: www.ucgateways.org
PERSONAL STATEMENT PEER-EDIT FORM
First, look over the notes on writing the personal statement—Share these with your editor (Your editor
should be a parent or friend whose editing skills you trust). Have at least two people edit the paper. Then
have the editors use the following guidelines to edit the paper:
1. What is the topic of the personal statement?
2. What is the Thesis of the personal statement?
3. How is the statement organized?
4. What Evidence is used to support the thesis?
5. What is the primary focus of the statement: telling the “event” or explaining personality?
6. What mechanical error is most prominent? (Circle errors as you go, even things that just don’t sound
right or don’t make sense.)
INTRODUCTION TO THE COVER LETTER
Many of you will be soon be in the position of sending resumes through the mail to employers who
have never seen you. You need to make a good impression by putting a cover letter with your resume.
There are three main parts to a cover letter:
1.
The opening paragraph tells specifically why you are writing. “I am applying for the advertised
position in telemarketing that I found in the Redlands Daily Facts. Refer to your resume.
2.
The next paragraph tells why you should be considered for the position. Briefly summarize your
qualifications for the job, describing relevant training or experience. “Being a three-year highly
successful member of the Redlands East Valley High School Speech and Debate Team has
sharpened my communication skills that would be an asset to the position.”
3.
The last paragraph should again express your interest in the job and your interest in the company.
“Your telemarketing firm has a fine reputation and it would be a privilege for me to contribute to
its services.” Ask for the next step in the application process.
Sample Letter Openings:
Please accept this letter as application for the Technical Sales Representative position currently available
with your company, as listed on Monster.com. My confidential resume is attached for your review and
consideration. I hope you will find me well qualified.
I noted with interest your June 20, 2007 job posting on CareerCity.com for an advertising executive at your
firm. I believe that I am an excellent candidate for this position. I have enclosed my resume for your
consideration.
I am responding to your job posting on Hotjobs.com. for a legal administrator of a law firm. I have attached
a resume of my educational background and employment history. I am very interested in this position.
I am excited about your advertisement on CareerCity.com for a summer intern. An internship with ABC
Corporation is an ideal opportunity for me to enhance the skills I am developing.
Same Letter Middle Paragraphs:
The professional competency I have developed in other jobs (see attached resume) will enable me to assist
you in meeting your goals. I would benefit from the experience of working with professionals and for a
corporation with the strongest reputation in the industry. (List qualifications and professional attributes)
I understand that you need someone who is self-directed and who possesses the necessary qualifications for
this position. (List qualifications and professional attributes)
I feel my experience and education could prove invaluable to your business. I have faith that I can handle
this challenging position in a highly professional manner. (List qualifications and professional attributes)
I am confident that my comprehensive experience would serve as an asset to your organization. My record is
one of increased responsibility, variety in job assignments, and solid accomplishments. (List qualifications
and professional attributes)
Sample Letter Closings
I would welcome the opportunity to discuss with you how I might make similar contributions to the success
of your business. I look forward to hearing from you to schedule a personal interview at your convenience.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
I have attached my resume to provide more information on my strengths and career achievements. I am also
open to other opportunities as well. If after reviewing my material you believe that there is a match, please
call me. Thank you for your consideration.
Please contact me at your earliest convenience so that I may share with you my background and enthusiasm
for the job. Thank you for your time and consideration.
I know I can make a significant contribution to your company. May I come in, at your convenience, so we
can discuss my qualifications more fully? Thank you for your time.
SAMPLE PROFESSIONAL COVER LETTER
Jennifer Johnson
18 Central Park Street, Redlands, CA 92373
(516) 555-1212 jjohnson@careerbrain.com
September 15, 2007
Mr. Robert Wood
Director of Human Resources
Miles and Jones Marketing Services
1725 East Lugonia Avenue
Redlands, CA 92373
Dear Mr. Wood:
I am applying for the advertised position in telemarketing that I found in the Redlands Daily Facts. This
position really captured my attention. I have much interest in the field of telemarketing and would like to
explore this field further with your company. Please accept this letter and resume as an application for the
position of telemarketer.
Being a three-year highly successful member of the Redlands East Valley High School Speech and Debate
Team has sharpened my communication skills that would be an asset to the position. My grades,
achievements, and volunteer experience have prepared me for the hard work and politeness the telemarketing
position requires. I am also well educated in the programs of any computer. Any problems arising on the job
would not be of any trouble because I am a quick learner. My enclosed resume covers my experiences and
qualifications in greater detail.
Your telemarketing firm has a fine reputation and it would be a privilege for me to contribute to its services.
I would welcome the opportunity for a personal interview to further discuss my qualifications.
Sincerely yours,
Jennifer Johnson
JJ
enclosure
INTRODUCTION TO RESUMES
EMPLOYERS WANT TO SEE A SUMMARY OF YOUR BACKGROUND AND EXPERIENCE
THAT IS RELEVANT TO THE POSITION AT ISSUE. HOWEVER, EMPLOYERS WANT
BRIEF, CONCISE RESUMES NOT LONG AND DEATAILED RESUMES. IT IS CONSIDERED
BEST TO HAVE A ONE PAGE RESUME. SOME EMPLOYERS WILL TOSS OUT ANYTHING
LONGER. ALSO, BY KEEPING IT BRIEF, THE EMPLOYER HAS TO INTERVIEW YOU IN
ORDER TO GET THE DETAILS.
SUGGESTIONS:
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
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
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Choose an OBJECTIVE or write your own.
EDUCATION: At this point list the high school you are graduating from, date, city and state.
WORK EXPERIENCE: Includes dates, place, position, and duties for each job. Begin with
your most recent work/volunteer experience and work back in tie. Devote more space to recent
jobs.
WHEN CHOOSING HEADINGS INCLUDE INTERESTS, EXTRA CURRICULAR
ACTIVITIES, AND AWARDS IF THESE FIT WHO YOU ARE.
SPECIAL SKILLS: Include the ones that fit you. You might be bilingual, or have computer
skills using certain programs (name the specific program).
EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Be specific and date them. Begin with the most recent
then work back in time. Only include high school, 9-12. Examples: school clubs, spirit leaders,
ASB, school sports, non-school sports, service organizations, church group, others.
INTERESTS: Hobbies and outside interests.
AWARDS: List specific titles, dates, and always list most recent first.
PERSONAL: Choose characteristics that describe you.
REFERENCES: If space permits you to put these on one page, you may do so. Otherwise,
simply write one of the following statements or a similar one.
Business and personal references are available and will be furnished on request
Excellent business and personal references are available.
References are available and will gladly be furnished on request.
EXAMPLES OF OBJECTIVES
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To find a position where I can prove my hardworking ability and contribute to the growth of
the organization.
To be working with people and contributing to the company while improving my skills.
To obtain long term employment with growth potential.
To obtain a people-oriented position where I can use my skills to serve others.
To be employed where I can use my written and oral communication skills.
To work where I can use my hands to help an employer and improve my skills.
To work where I can put to use the diversified abilities I have acquired to advance with the
company.
To obtain a service related position where I can use my skills to contribute to the community.
To obtain a position where I can be challenged and develop my leadership qualities.
To obtain a position in ….
RESUME WIZARD – If you would like to use the resume program at REV, use the following
procedures:
GO TO:
 Microsoft Word
 File
 Other documents
 Resume Wizard Okay
Style – Professional
Type – Entry Level Resume
Address – (Complete it)
STANDARD HEADINGS:
 Objective
 Education
 Work Experience
 References
OPTIONAL HEADINGS:
 Choose the headings you want.
ADD/SORT HEADINGS:
 Put headings in the order you want.
PUT THE HEADINGS IN THIS ORDER:
 Objective
 Education
 Word experience
 Other headings in the order of your choice
 References
INTRODUCTION TO REFERENCES
Please note: References need to be individuals who believe in you and know you well enough to give
you a good recommendation. Don’t ask someone who is not well enough acquainted with you that he
or she cannot write a sincere and positive letter.

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References cannot be a family member
Suggestions: teacher, counselor, employer, coach, minister, Scout Leader, neighbor, or family
friend
Include name, address, and phone number
Ask permission to use the person’s name
SAMPLE LIST OF REFERENCES
References
Ann Leonard
Redlands East Valley High School
31000 East Colton Avenue
Redlands, CA 92374
(909) 389-2500
Jonathan Jarboe
Temple Baptist Church
611 Cypress Avenue
Redlands, CA 92373
(909) 793-2448
INTRODUCTION TO NETWORKING LIST
(Optional)
If you know individuals who might offer you business connections, include name, address and phone
number.
SAMPLE COURSES TAKEN
9th
English 9
Algebra I
Science I
Spanish I
Geography
Physical Education
10th
English 10
Plane Geometry
Biology
Spanish II
Word Processing I
Child Development
Physical Education
11th
English 11
U.S. History
Algebra II
Chemistry
Psychology
Digital Art
12th
English 12
Math Analysis
Government and Economics
Ceramics I
Video Production
Attendance T.A.
EXAMPLE OF A WORK SAMPLE SUMMARY
Name: Imanae Student
Date of Sample Completion
June, 2001_____
Work Sample Title:__Advertising_for_Redland East Valley High School Newspaper___
Sample Description:
This work sample has two parts: assigning areas for certain reporters to sell advertisements, and going out
and finding prospective business supporters. To prepare for this work I give out the area assignments, and
then I take over the uncovered areas.
Steps Taken to Completion:
Before leaving I needed to make sure I brought the most current newspaper, advertising rates, and advertising
contracts. Also being the newspaper’s business manager I need to make sure for myself and others that these
documents are current and correct.
Special Skills Needed for Sample:
Going out to the different businesses shows my responsibility, leadership and speaking skills. In order to get
an advertisement sold, I need to make sure to be friendly, have a positive attitude, and a clean and businesslike appearance. I also need to make sure that the business has all the information they need, such as my
name and contact number.
Self Evaluation:
I learned everyday how to improve my personal, interpersonal, and communication skills. I think I handle
businesses in a way that they do not feel that I am pushing them to buy an advertisement. I let them know
that if they do, it is greatly appreciated by the staff. Being in situations where different skills are needed to
resolve a problem with an advertiser lets me know that these skills are needed in all jobs and in the work
place. I think that I became a better advertising sales person as the year progressed.
Name ______________________Date of Sample Completion______________________
Work Sample Title:________________________________________________________
Sample Description:
INTRODUCTION TO THE THANK YOU LETTER
A thank-you note or letter is always a smart idea. It will keep your name alive in the employer’s
mind and it will also show that you are seriously interested in the job.
Opening Paragraph
Remind the employer of when and why you met. “Thank you for giving me the opportunity to
interview with you for the position of telemarketer on Monday, September 8, 2007.”
Middle Paragraph
Remind the employer why you would be a good person for the job. “As per our discussion, I feel that
my education and background will be a valuable asset to your company.” (Qualifications, professional
attributes)
Closing Paragraph
Close, thank employer again. “In closing, I would like to again thank you for sharing your valuable
time with me.”
SAMPLE THANK YOU LETTER 1
Jennifer Johnson
18 Central Park Street, Redlands, CA 92373
(516) 555-1212 jjohnson@careerbrain.com
November 14, 2007
Mr. Robert Wood
Director of Human Resources
Miles and Jones Marketing Services
1725 East Lugonia Avenue
Redlands, CA 92373
Dear Mr. Wood:
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to interview with you for the position of telemarketer on Monday,
September 8, 2007. I enjoyed meeting with you and learning more about the position. I’d like to confirm
that I definitely want the job.
As per our discussion, I feel that my education and background will be a valuable asset to your company.
Additionally, I have always been considered a hard worker, and a dependable, loyal employee.
In closing, I would like to again thank you for sharing your valuable time with me. If you have any other
questions, please feel free to contact me. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely yours,
Jennifer Johnson
JJ
SAMPLE THANK YOU LETTER 2
31000 E. Colton Avenue
Redlands, CA 92371
Monday, January 27, 2003
Ms. Roberta Jones
31000 E. Orange Street
Redlands, CA 92374
Dear Ms. Jones:
Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to participate in the “practice interviews” at Redlands
East Valley High School. Your time is valuable, and we appreciate that you spent it with us.
I also want to thank you personally for giving me a chance to practice interviewing skills. Being able to do
so, and get feedback from the interviewer was a more than valuable experience. In your comments to me,
you told me that I need to work on making eye contact during the interview. I now know that when I am
nervous, I tend to not look people in the face. In a real job interview, I can now be aware of this fact and
make an effort to improve it. You also told me that my portfolio was “impressive.” Thank you for your feed
back on my portfolio. I worked very hard on it and I am glad that is apparent to an “outside” reviewer.
Your comments and guidance will help me to be a better citizen and successful community member. Thank
you.
Sincerely,
Korrie Krohne
kk
LETTERS OF RECCOMENDATION
References are people who can give prospective employer(s) information about any applicant, their
attitude and ability. Here are some things to note when asking for letters of recommendation.

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Carefully consider who to ask for a reference letter. Try to select people who are well known
from different activities and be sure to ask these individuals for their permission to use them as
references.
Suggestions: teacher, counselor, employer, coach, minister, Scout Leader, neighbor or family
friend.
Relatives and students are not acceptable.
The letter of recommendation should be addressed to the employer or To Whom It May
Concern.
Please note: References need to be individuals who believe in you and know you well enough to give
you a good recommendation. Don’t ask someone who is not well enough acquainted with you that he
or she cannot write a sincere and positive letter.
CAREER SHADOW REFLECTION
JOB SHADOW REFLECTION ESSAY PROMPT
Write an essay in which you reflect upon the experience of job shadowing. In your essay, describe
your activities, your observations, and your conclusions. Organize this multi-paragraph essay in a
manner that is appropriate to the ideas you choose to explore.
At the top of your paper, identify the following:
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The name of the person shadowed
The job title or type of job
The name of the company
The date(s) that shadowing took place
Your essay should address the following:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
How did this experience influence your thinking about your future career?
Describe the workplace environment. Is it an environment where you would feel
comfortable working? Explain.
What surprised you most about this career?
What are the “perks” of this career?
What are the drawbacks of this career?
Is the job more or less appealing to you now that you have observed it? Explain.
INTRODUCTION TO INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
1. TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF.
2. TELL ME ABOUT A TIME WHEN YOU HAD AN IDEA AND MADE IT HAPPEN.
3. TELL ME ABOUT A TIME WHEN YOU WERE OVERWHELMED BY SCHOOL, JOB, ACTIVITY OR
JUST LIFE IN GENERAL AND HOW YOU SUCCESSFULLY HANDLED IT.
4. WHY SHOULD I HIRE YOU?
5. WHAT ARE YOUR STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES?
6. WHAT DID YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT YOUR LAST JOB?
7. WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT OUR COMPANY AND WHY DO YOU WANT TO WORK HERE?
8. WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN FIVE YEARS?
9. WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME?
10. HOW SOON COULD YOU START?
TIPS FOR ANSWERING TYPICAL INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
AND SAMPLE RESPONSES
(1) Tell me about yourself.
TIPS
Expect this question and be prepared to answer it.
Mention those things which you are proud of and comfortable talking about, keeping them job-related
(skills, abilities, personal qualities, work experience, vocational training, etc.)
Tell Me About Yourself ~ Oh No! What do I Say?
Ideally the answer to this question should be approximately a 2 to 5 minute overview of your back ground
tailored to match the company and position. Your goal is to practice this answer verbally until it
becomes second nature.
Step 1
Begin with an upbeat statement
“I would like to focus on my previous and current positions and how successful and rewarding
they have been. My first job was…”
Step 2
Include some accomplishments
Try to use one or two power stories that focus on your results. “My position in ASB/on the
football team has given me the opportunity to...”
Step 3
Why are you seeking this position?
“Currently I am looking for a position doing _______ because________.”
Step 4
Use a closure statement to create a smooth ending
“Is there anything else you would like me to cover?”
SAMPLE 1
For three years, I have been a member of the REV Speech and Debate Team. I have worked extremely
hard attempting to be one of the most successful members and excellent president. Also, my nine years of
volunteer work with the Native Sons of the Golden West has prepared me for longevity and dedication in a
single profession. What other information can I offer?
SAMPLE 2
In my previous and current positions I have been very successful, and the various jobs that I have had
have been rewarding to me. My experiences in school have also influenced my work ethic and personality.
Throughout my high school career I have been an active member of American Cancer Society which has
taught me much responsibility and shown me that integrity is something very important. I have been one of
the top players on the varsity tennis team of my high school every year since I was a freshman and this has
also been a part of my understanding of the importance of responsibility. This, as well as being a member
and now an editor of the school newspaper has made me a very dedicated person and a diligent worker. I am
interested in being an employee for your company because I am confident I could do a great job, and your
company seems to fit my interests and personality very well. Is there anything else you would like to know
about me?
My response:
(2) Why do you want to work here?
TIPS
Expect this question and be prepared to answer it.
Express interest and motivation to work for the employer who is interviewing you.
Do some research on the company so that you know why you want to work there.
SAMPLE
I am very interested in the professional field that this job has to offer me. After conducting my research, I
have found that your company is one of the best in the area and I would be honored to associate my work
with this company’s reputation.
My response:
(3) Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
TIPS
If you do not know where you will be in five years, remember that you are no exception to the rule; most
of us are ‘highly mobile’ in this culture.
Keep your answers job related.
Do not express career interests which are totally unrelated to the job you are applying for unless it is
obvious to you and to the employer that the job you are applying for is a short-term work situation.
SAMPLE
I hope that I will have gained a lot of experience and seniority in this profession and your company. I
wish to gain as much experience in this field not only to apply while at work but also in my life for my future
experiences. In the farther future, I hope to fulfill my dream of becoming an ambassador or Secretary of
State.
My response:
(4) Why should I hire you?
TIPS
Put yourself in the shoes of a typical employer in your field and ask yourself what you would want to see
in an applicant. State three basic needs.
Speak to those three needs by stating how you can fill them.
Add a statement which reinforces the fact that the employer will profit by hiring you.
SAMPLE
This position requires someone with intellect, professionalism, and responsibility. These characteristics
sum me up perfectly. I also have many other great abilities such as prioritization, leadership, and
communication. I could be a great asset to the building of this company.
My response:
(5) What are your strengths?
TIPS
Remember that we all have strengths and that it’s important for you to be able to notice yours and to
communicate them effectively to an employer.
State those positive traits which would be most highly valued in the job for which you are applying.
SAMPLE
One of my innumerable strengths is my commitment to my duties, my achievement, and my employer’s
satisfaction. I always stick with my promises and assignments through thick and thin. I have extraordinary
leadership skills that are essential with proper organization and promotion in this company. Are there any
particular skills that you are looking for?
My response:
(6) What are your weaknesses?
TIPS
Be willing to admit that you have areas of weakness.
Do not bring up weaknesses which would cause the employer to question your behavior or performance
on the job.
Bring up a weakness which could be seen as a strength in the vocational area you want to enter. For
example, getting bored with repetitive tasks could be seen as a strength on a job in which one’s duties are
constantly changing.
Mention to the employer how you are working to correct your weakness.
SAMPLE
I tend to become impatient with myself when I have difficulty learning a new process. This impatience,
however, forces me to work above and beyond to correct the situation. I am pleased that my impatience
pushes me because the difficulty does not seem to last very long. I hope to be easier on myself not to cause
extraneous stress.
My response:
(7) How do you spend you spare time?
TIPS
Remember that the employer is not trying to pry into your personal life, but is possibly attempting to
strike up a friendly conversation so as to ‘lighten up’ the interview.
Do not mention pastimes which carry negative connotations or give rise to unpleasant stereotypes.
Describe your activities in an interesting and positive manner.
Do not give details of your pastimes unless they are asked for by the employer.
SAMPLE
I am a fan of government-based fiction stories. I enjoy many novels concerning the Presidency, the
Department of Defense, and major historical events. Once I start reading a wonderful book, I find it difficult
to put it down. I also like social gatherings with friends and family. A good book and friends are essential
parts of my spare time.
My response:
(8) Why did you leave your last job?
TIPS
Rather than stating problems or faults of the past employer, state things which the past employer couldn't
offer that the prospective employer does provide. (Hit two birds with one stone!)
Never criticize a past employer.
Remain cool, calm, and collected even if this question pushes your buttons.
Remember that your past employer may be called for a reference check. Your stories should match up.
SAMPLE
I left my last job in hopes of finding a company in which there are many opportunities for creativity,
promotion, and a promise of longevity. I have found all three of these reasons in your company.
My response:
(9) Do you have any questions for me?
TIPS
Remember that you are interviewing the employer as well as being interviewed by the employer.
In general, employers like it when interviewees ask to take notes on their answers.
Always end the interview with a question about when you will hear of the employer’s decision.
SAMPLE
Yes I do.
 What are some new projects being started to help this company flow into the next century?
 Does this company foresee any international expansion?
 What is the next promotional step I would take?
 What are all future promotions possible for me?
My response:
(10) What do you know about our company?
TIPS
Do company research before your interview.
Relate what you know about the company to your interests, needs, abilities, etc. Ask yourself how each fact
about the company might matter to you if you were an employee.
Make positive statements about the company.
If relevant, ask the employer’s permission to take notes.
If you haven’t researched the company for some reason, your best response to this question might be,
“Actually I know very little about your company and I wondered if you wouldn’t mind answering a few
questions”. Then proceed with your inquiries.
SAMPLE
I understand that your company has a great reputation for quality work produced by some of the most
intelligent and educated people in the field. It is probable that this company will go far and will make great
strides in a short while. This is the exact reason why I would love to work for your company.
My response:
(11) How soon could you start?
TIPS
Know the answer to this question before it’s asked.
If you are already employed, express your need to be fair to your present employer and give two weeks’
notice. The interviewer will respect you for your consideration.
Do not give an unrealistic time frame in order to please the interviewer. Be honest.
Do not give personal reasons for delaying your start date. Phrases like “I have commitments up until
____(date)____” or “the soonest I could make arrangements to begin work here would be
____(date)____” can be used instead.
Other good answers for those people who can start work immediately are “Right away”, “Today!” or
“Anytime." You name it!”
SAMPLE
I could start within two weeks so I could setup my schedule in order to allow the maximum time I can
spend with your company each day. I have many commitments that I would have to shuffle in order to begin
work and balance my other responsibilities. I am a very busy person, but working for your company would
be my top priority.
My response:
(12) How are you qualified for this job?
TIPS
It is generally wise to first communicate your understanding of the job before you answer this question. If
your understanding is correct, the employer will be pleased. If it is not, the employer will be happy to
correct you.
Remember that you have already been accepted as “qualified.” This is your opportunity to really sell
yourself as the person to be hired for this position.
List each of the qualifications for the job. Ask yourself how you have shown or proven that you meet
each qualification. Be sure to add personal qualities besides skills and abilities.
Be proud to tell how you are qualified, without seeming conceited. Remember the thin lines between
being modest and putting yourself down, between legitimate pride and being pompous.
SAMPLE
This position requires someone with intelligence, a variety of skills, and wonderful leadership skills. I
obtain these skills because of my hard work and dedication. As you look at my resume, I hope you will find
that all of my experiences throughout my life have given me a variety of skills. These skills not only fulfill
the requirements you have requested but go far beyond the call of duty.
My response:
(13) How did you come to choose this field?
TIPS
Remember that the employer wants to be convinced that you’re in the right occupation.
Be honest about how you were introduced to the field, but back up your answer with a positive statement
about why it’s right for you or why you like it.
In preparing your answer, name one thing you like about the field in general, the work environment, and
the job itself. Work your answer around to these items.
SAMPLE
I came to choose this field because of my experiences on the speech and debate team. I find that, because
of technology and the Internet, the world has become a smaller place. We need people who understand this
concept and can cross the cultural divides in order to keep peace reigning throughout the world. I want to be
one of these pioneers.
My response:
(14) What did you like most about your last job?
TIPS
Do not strain to answer as if you were hard-put to think of something positive to say.
Mention some aspect of your previous job that you will find in your new job.
Sell a personal trait of yours by saying, “What I liked most was having the opportunity to use my
________________skills.
Remember: If you don’t have anything good to say, don’t say anything at all!
SAMPLE
I liked most the opportunity to work with the people I did. Not only did I develop intellectually from the
experience, but I also developed socially from the kind people that I met at my last job. Working within the
community on such a close level has helped me more than I could have possibly imagined.
My response:
SAMPLE EMPLOYMENT INTERVIEW EVALUATION FORM
Name of applicant _____________________ Interviewer ________________________
APPEARANCE





Inappropriate attire and/or very untidy.
Careless about personal appearance and/or wearing blue jeans.
Acceptable personal appearance.
Better than average appearance.
Very well groomed; very neat.
COMPOSURE




Nervous and tense.
Average composure.
Positive; appears to handle crises better than the average.
Exceptionally well composed; appears to thrive under pressure.
QUALITY OF ANSWER





Unprepared; points not addressed or incomplete response.
Little preparation; partial or unorganized response.
Acceptable; most points covered in logical sequence.
Above average; all points covered.
Exceptional; well organized response and content exceeds the question’s requirement.
PORTFOLIO


Presented portfolio to you.
Displayed their resume and work sample
OVERALL EVALUATION (If you were hiring)
 High priority
 Possibility
 Needs improvement