notes to the teacher - wordpress.comhow to have an effective job interview. after reading the text,...

#33 Advanced

© Continuing Education, San Diego Community College District, EL Civics Program, 2012 1

8/28/2012 12:16 AM

Student Guide

El Civics # 33 Apply for a Job

Advanced

Teacher’s Name: _________________

Student’s Name: __________________

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To the Student: You are going to study some lessons that can help you get a job or get a better job. You’ll prepare for a job interview and you will also practice filling out job applications. After you complete the lessons, you will take a test. There are two parts for the test:

1. Speaking test: The student will play the role of a job applicant in a job interview. The examiner (teacher) will play the role of the employer.

Imagine a job (position) that you would like. What position would you like to apply for? ______________________

In the lessons that follow, think about this job/position when you prepare and practice for a job interview.

2. Writing test: Fill out an authentic job application.

Students who pass the tests will receive a certificate! EL Civics is a federally funded program that helps newcomers to the United States find success in their new communities. Our school receives funds for each student who passes the tests! You are helping your family, yourself, and the school! Thank you!

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Job Interviews

A job interview can be a nerve-racking experience. However, you will feel less nervous if you are prepared. In this unit you will learn what to expect during a job interview in the United States. You will also practice talking about yourself so that you will be confident at your next interview.

1. How do you feel about job interviews? Circle the words that describe your feelings.

terrified excited hopeful hopeless anxious relaxed

confident insecure pessimistic optimistic unprepared ready

Note: If you are worried about an interview in the future, you will probably feel much better after completing these lessons!

2. What do you already know about interviews? Talk about the picture with your class.

Who are these people? What are they talking about? What are they doing?

3. In a small group, discuss the following questions. Then, report to the class. a. What is the job interview process like in your native country?

b. Have you ever had an interview for employment in the United States? Tell your classmates about it.

c. What questions do you think employers ask in a job interview?

d. What is the difference between boasting and *selling yourself in an interview?

e. How would you prepare if you had a job interview next week?

*convince the employer that you are the best person to hire

http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://salesjobinterviewguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/sales-job-interview-need-to-knows.jpg&imgrefurl=http://salesjobinterviewguide.com/?page_id=9&h=375&w=248&sz=16&hl=en&start=14&tbnid=jbulGid1rnugrM:&tbnh=122&tbnw=81&prev=/images?q=good+job+interview&gbv=2&hl=en&safe=active

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8/28/2012 12:16 AM

Successful Job Interviews: An Example

Sara Sanchez applied for a receptionist position at a small company. She filled out the online application and sent them her resume. A week later, she was invited to interview for the position.

1. Read the interview below.

Employer: Hello. I’m Jeffrey Walden.

Applicant: Hello. I’m Sara Sanchez. It’s nice to meet you.

Employer: Nice to meet you, too. Please, have a seat.

Applicant: Thank you.

Employer: How are you today?

Applicant: I’m fine, thank you. And you?

Employer: I’m fine thanks. OK. Let’s begin. Please tell me about yourself.

Applicant: Sure. I would enjoy working as a receptionist because I like working with people. I’m also very organized and attentive to details. I can operate multi-line phones, and can use MS Word and Excel. I know how to follow procedures well. In my last job, I handled the front desk and some clerical duties. I worked there for five years. I’m motivated to work in a clerical position again.

Employer: All right. That sounds good. Where do you see yourself in five years?

Applicant: I’d like to work as an administrative assistant after gaining more experience as a receptionist.

Employer: OK, and why did you leave your last job?

Applicant: Business slowed down and, unfortunately, I was laid off.

Employer: Oh, that’s unfortunate. How do you think your peers or co-workers would describe you?

Applicant: They would say that I was dependable and friendly. They might also say that I was very patient and helpful. Sometimes they would ask me to call some of our more demanding customers because I was comfortable working with them. I like to look for the best in people. I also helped my co-workers with clients who don’t speak English well.

Employer: That’s great. How are your English skills?

Applicant: I’ve been successful communicating with clients in person and on the phone, but I’m still taking English classes. Currently I’m attending an Advanced English class and I’m improving every day. I’m sure I can handle this position and I’m motivated to learn more.

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Employer: Fine. Do you have any questions for me?

Applicant: Yes, if I were offered a job, how soon would you like me to begin?

Employer: Training will begin the first of the month. We’ll notify you of our decision next week. Well, it’s been a pleasure meeting you. Thank you for coming in today.

Applicant: I’ve enjoyed meeting you, too. I look forward to hearing from you.

2. Evaluate Sara’s Interview. Talk with a classmate about the interview. What did the employer ask her? ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ What did you like about Sara’s answers? ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ Do you think she will get the job? Why or why not? ______________________________________________________________________

3. In the following lessons you will prepare for a job interview. Write the job title of the position that you would like to prepare for.

Job Title: _________________________________________

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8/28/2012 12:18 AM

A Successful Job Interview: Discussion

In a small group, discuss what an applicant should do to insure a successful interview experience. Write your group’s ideas in the chart.

What should an applicant do before going to a job interview?

What should an applicant do during an interview?

How about after the interview?

Before

During

After

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Page 1 of 2

Successful Job Interviews: Vocabulary You are going to read some advice about job interviews. Before you read, learn some important words that you will see in the text.

Use the meaning of the whole sentences below to guess at the definition of the underlined words. Write what you think the word(s) mean. 1. Interviews can be intimidating, so it is normal to be nervous. intimidating _______________________________________________________________

2. With thoughtful preparation, you’ll have a better chance of landing the job. to land a job ___________________________________________________________

3. Pick up a brochure at the human resources department to find out as much as you can about the position and the company. brochure ______________________________________________________________

4. Think about the needs of the company, and start to formulate any questions you have for the interviewer. formulate _____________________________________________________________

5. Some questions, such as “Tell me about yourself.”, are open-ended. open-ended _____________________________________________________________

6. The closer your skills and traits are to the job description, the better chance you have of landing the job. traits _________________________________________________________________

7. When an employer says, “Tell me about yourself.” , he or she doesn’t want a literal answer about your personal history. literal _________________________________________________________________

8. The interviewer will react favorably if you ask intelligent questions. favorably _____________________________________________________________

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Page 2 0f 2

9. Confirm plans which leave you depending on someone else. Just in case, have a back up plan in place. back up plan _____________________________________________________________

10. Smiling expresses friendliness and enthusiasm. enthusiasm ______________________________________________________________

11. Check to be sure that your clothes are clean and pressed. pressed __________________________________________________________________

12. Make sure you have good posture, which will communicate that you’re interested and excited about the job. posture __________________________________________________________________

13. Feel free to gesture with your hands but avoid fidgeting, which communicates nervousness. gesture __________________________________________________________________

14. Feel free to gesture with your hands but avoid fidgeting, which communicates nervousness. fidget ____________________________________________________________________

15. It’s important to be diplomatic – never make negative statements about previous jobs or employers. be diplomatic ______________________________________________________________

16. Make sure you have a have a well-groomed professional appearance. well-groomed _____________________________________________________________

17. Don’t look away from the interviewer. Sustain eye contact. sustain __________________________________________________________________

18. Sustain eye contact and refrain from chewing gum. refrain from _______________________________________________________________

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Successful Job Interviews: Reading

An organization in Washington state called Seattle Jobs Initiative offers advice about how to have an effective job interview. After reading the text, write additional tips on your chart near the beginning of this booklet.

Tips for a Successful Interview

Interviews can be intimidating, but with thoughtful preparation, you’ll have a much better chance of landing the job. Here are some tips for success:

Preparation Pick up a brochure at the human resources department, and spend some time researching on the Internet, to find out as much as you can about the position and the company. While you’re researching, think about how your experience will match the needs of the company, and start to formulate any questions you have for the interviewer. Think about how you would answer open-ended interview questions such as, “Tell me about yourself.” The employer is looking for information related to work and the job opening. Don’t make the mistake of answering this question literally by giving your life history. Instead, know what you can offer the company by making lists of what your skills and traits are. Try to match them to what the company is looking for in an employee. The closer your skills and traits are to the job description, the better chance you have of landing the job. Prepare questions of your own. Employers are as interested in your questions as they are in your answers. And they'll react favorably if you ask intelligent questions about the position, the company and the industry. Make travel arrangements for getting to the interview and make certain that you know exactly how to get there. If you plan on driving, make certain ahead of time that you have enough gas in your car. If you’ve never been to the location before, you may want to drive there the day before to avoid any potential confusion. Confirm child care plans and any other plans which leave you depending on someone else. Just in case, have a back up plan in place. Make sure that you print out several clean copies of your resume to take with you. Decide what you will wear and check that it is clean and pressed with no missing buttons. The Interview

If your interview is in the morning, get up with sufficient time to get ready, eat breakfast, and even take a walk. This will help you wake up and be able to think more clearly.

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Arrive at the interview a few minutes early, but no more than 10 minutes early. When you

meet the interviewer, remember that body language is extremely important. Introduce yourself saying, "Hello, my name is ________." Use your first and last name. Look the person in the eye, speak clearly and enunciate carefully. Being heard and understood is more important than speaking quickly. Offer a firm, solid handshake, and don’t be afraid to smile! Smiling expresses friendliness and enthusiasm.

Don’t be surprised if the employer begins the interview with small talk. A good interviewer will try to put you at ease this way. Throughout the meeting, make sure you have good posture, which will communicate that you’re interested and excited about the job. Listen to the interviewer when they talk – don’t interrupt. If you listen carefully, it will help you formulate more thoughtful and appropriate responses. Avoid looking around the room while you’re talking because that can communicate nervousness. Feel free to gesture with your hands or use them while you talk, but do so in moderation. Also avoid fidgeting, which communicates nervousness. It’s important to be diplomatic – never make negative statements about previous jobs or employers. No matter how bad your last job or boss was, there is probably something good you learned from the experience, so emphasize the positive. Also, be prepared to talk about your weaknesses in a positive way. Most interviewers form an initial impression within the first five minutes of meeting you, so make sure that you:

smile often

have a well-groomed professional appearance

use makeup, jewelry or strong scents conservatively

introduce yourself in a relaxed and confident manner

sustain eye contact

refrain from chewing gum At some point, the employer will probably ask, “What can I answer for you?” Be ready to pose a few questions about the company or the position. At the end of your interview, don’t be afraid to say, "I really want this job; I know I could make a real contribution." After the interview, write a thank-you note to every person you met at the company. In your letter(s), be sure to re-emphasize the skills you would bring to the position. Thank them for their time and ask if it would be acceptable to call later in the week to learn how their search for a candidate is progressing. That candidate may well be you!

Copyright © 2008, Seattle Jobs Initiative. All rights reserved.

Adapted by permission from http://www.seattlejobsinitiative.com/jobs/resources/pages/interviewtips.html

#33 Advanced


8/28/2012 12:19 AM

Tell Me about Yourself: Personal Qualities

We all have good points, but should we talk about them? Many of us grew up with the idea that it is impolite to talk about our best personal traits. However, in the United States, you are expected to be able to talk about your best qualities in a job interview. If you can identify your good points now, you will be ready when an employer says, “Tell me about yourself.”

1. Read the list below. Check five of your best personal qualities:

I am…….

adaptable, willing to make changes

attentive to details

attentive to keeping costs down

careful

cooperative

creative

dependable or reliable

energetic

flexible

friendly and cheerful

a good listener

good at following instructions

good at getting things done

good at working on a team

hard-working

honest

motivated

neat and orderly

patient

persistent

professional

punctual

responsible

sensitive to the feelings of others

thorough

well organized

I …………

ask questions when I don’t understand

like working with people

like to learn new things

take initiative

take pride in my work

work quickly and efficiently

work well under pressure

work well independently

2. Think about a job that you would like to have. Choose three of your qualities that match that job well.

I am thorough and well organized. I also work well under pressure.

Tell me about yourself.

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Tell Me about Yourself: Practice with Personal Qualities

Read the employee statements below. Write the personal quality or qualities that match the employee. There may be more than one correct answer.

1. I don’t mind doing different things at work. I can change easily. ________________________________________________________________________ 2. I enjoy working with people and I get along with everyone. I’m ready to help my coworkers whenever they need it. ________________________________________________________________________ 3. If I see something that needs to be done, I don’t wait for someone to tell me to do it. ________________________________________________________________________ 4. I am careful with my work. I check it twice to be sure that it is complete and accurate. ________________________________________________________________________ 5. I work well alone, and I am not afraid to make decisions. _________________________________________________________________________ 6. I always complete my work, and I’m never late. _________________________________________________________________________ 7. I do the most important tasks first, and I keep my things in order so that I can find what I need quickly. _________________________________________________________________________

8. If something is difficult, I ask questions and try different ways until I get it right. _________________________________________________________________________

9. I have handled money and merchandise responsibly. I never take something that isn’t mine, and I care about protecting the company. _________________________________________________________________________ 10. I don’t get upset when someone is angry. I stay calm and listen.

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1. Write about yourself. Start with a personal quality. Then write an example from your personal or professional life that shows that you have this quality.

I ____________________________________________________________.

For example, ___________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________

Also, I _______________________________________________________.

For example, ___________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________

Finally, I ______________________________________________________.

For example, ___________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________

2. Practice speaking at a job interview with a classmate or in a small group. Use the information above, and repeat the practice until you don’t need to read your paper.

Interviewer: Tell me about yourself. Applicant: ______________________________________________________. (Talk about your personal qualities.)

I am thorough and well organized. I like to do everything completely in the most efficient way possible. I also work well under pressure. You can count on me to meet difficult deadlines.

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Tell Me about Yourself: Transferable Skills

In addition to telling an employer about your good personal qualities, you must explain your transferable skills. Transferable skills are skills that you can use at any job, even if you have never worked before. 1. Look at the list of skills below. Check the skills that you have.

communicate orally and in writing in English

speak, read and write in two or more languages

word process with Microsoft Word

use MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint

use the Internet to find information

drive a car and I have a California driver’s license

use tools to fix things

troubleshoot technical problems

teach others

solve problems

manage my time well

listen well to help people with their needs

handle many responsibilities

work well in a multi-cultural environment

make and meet goals

follow procedures

2. Say complete sentences about your skills.

I am able to… I know how to… I can… I am good at ________ing …

3. Practice speaking at a job interview with a classmate or in a small group. Explain three of your skills. Repeat the practice until you don’t need to read your paper.

Interviewer: Tell me about yourself.

Applicant: ______________________________________________________. (Talk about three of your skills.)

I know how to______, and I am good at _______ing.

Also, I can ________.

Tell me about yourself.

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8/28/2012 12:19 AM

Tell Me about Yourself: Experience, Education and Training

Your past experience and training are very important to include in a job interview. A general question such as, “Tell me about yourself.” Or “Why should I hire you?”, is an opportunity to explain what you have studied and where you have worked in the past as well as your plans for the future.

1. Which of these sentences apply to you? Complete only the sentences that describe you best.

Past:

a. In my country, I studied ________________________________________________.

b. In my last job, I was a/an ______________________________________________.

My responsibilities were _____________ing, ______________ing, and ________ing.

c. I worked at ________________________ for ______________ years. (place)

My responsibilities were _____________ing, ______________ing, and ________ing.

Present: a. Right now, I am a __________________________ at ________________________.

(place)

b. Now I’m studying ______________________ at ____________________________.

c. I really like __________________________________________________________.

Future: a. I would like to _________________________________________________.

b. My short-term goal is to _______________________________________________.

c. This job will be an opportunity to _________________________________________.

d. My long-term goal is to work as a _______________________________________.

2. Show your work to a classmate and your instructor to check for correct grammar and spelling.

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8/28/2012 12:19 AM

Tell Me about Yourself: Experience, Education and Training

1. Using the previous page as a guide, write two or three statements about your past and present experience, interests, and future goals.

Past _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________

Present _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________

Future _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________

2. Practice speaking about your experience and education at a job interview with a classmate or in a small group. Repeat the practice until you don’t need to read your paper.

Interviewer: Tell me about yourself. Applicant: ______________________________________________________. (Talk about your past, present and future goals.)

I was an accountant in my native country. I

worked there for ten years. Now, I’m

studying English. My short-term goal is to

gain business experience in the U.S.

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8/28/2012 12:19 AM

Successful Job Interviews: Body Language

Research shows that an applicant’s body language is very important to make a good impression. Learn below how to make a good impression non-verbally.

Listen to your teacher. Fill in the missing words. Study these tips and practice them with your instructor.

1. Smile! Try to keep your face and words _________________________ throughout the interview.

2. Shake hands ______________________, but don't break the interviewer’s wrist. A "wet fish" (weak) handshake will suggest a weak character.

3. Wait to be _____________________________ to sit down.

4. Try to relax - don’t sit on the ________________________ of your chair , but sit up

reasonably _______________________________ and still. Keep your arms relaxed. 5. Don't sit with your arms ______________________________. 6. Keep up good eye __________________________ with the interviewer, but don't

__________________________________ at them all the time. 7. Listen carefully and don’t ___________________________________. 8. Avoid _____________________________ with your hands or playing with your hair. 9. Speak ______________________________, and not too fast. 10. Nod your head in __________________________________ to show that you understand what the interviewer is telling you.

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Successful Job Interviews: Body Language 1. Reread the advice about body language from the text, “Tips for a Successful Interview”.

2. Now you’re ready to role-play a complete response to “Tell me about yourself” that includes your qualities, skills and experience. Give this page to a classmate. Your classmate will be the employer. After the interview, your classmate will use the checklist to give you feedback.

1. Stand in front of your classmate. 2. Make eye contact, smile, introduce yourself and shake hands. 3. Wait for an invitation to sit down. Say a complete response to, “Tell me about

yourself.”

Fine

Needs Practice

Hand Shake

Smile

Posture

Clear, Audible Speech

Eye Contact

Personal Qualities

Skills

Experience

When you meet the interviewer, introduce yourself saying, "Hello, my name is ________."

Use your first and last name. Look the person in the eye and speak clearly. Offer a firm, solid

handshake, and don’t be afraid to smile! Smiling expresses friendliness and enthusiasm.

Throughout the meeting, make sure you have good posture, which will communicate that

you’re interested and excited about the job. Avoid looking around the room while you’re

talking because that can communicate nervousness. Also, avoid fidgeting, which

communicates nervousness.

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Page 1 of 2

Successful Job Interviews: Additional Questions 1. Employers usually ask several questions in an interview. Unscramble the words below to correctly form common interview questions that you should prepare for.

1. do / here? / you / to / want / work / why

________________________________________________________________

2. did / job? / you / your / why / last / leave

________________________________________________________________

3. you / to / tell / a / situation / about / handle. / difficult / had / me

________________________________________________________________

4. do / five / see / where / years? / yourself / you / in

________________________________________________________________

5. co-workers / how / your / you? / or / describe / would / peers

________________________________________________________________

6. and / your / what / weaknesses? / are / strengths

________________________________________________________________

7. English / are / your / skills? / how

________________________________________________________________

8. to / or / you / work / nights / weekends? / available / are

________________________________________________________________

9. you / questions / have / any / me? / for / do

________________________________________________________________

2. Talk about the questions and possible answers with your teacher

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Page 2 of 2

Successful Job Interviews: Positive Answers

3. Applicants who show preparation, confidence, and a positive attitude have a better chance of getting a job. Read the answers below to the questions on the previous page. Check the better answer for each question.

1. I really need to work. I’ll work anywhere.

1. This position matches my skills and interests. I’d like to work for a successful company like yours. I think I could contribute a lot here.

2a. I didn’t like it, and anyway I came to the U.S.

2a. I had the chance to come to the United States. There are better opportunities for my family here.

2b. Actually, this would be my first paid job, but I’ve done a lot of volunteer work at my

child’s school, and I’ve been studying to improve my English skills.

2b. I can’t answer that question because I’ve never worked before. 3. When I first came to this country, it was really hard. We were alone and scared. I was depressed for a long time. Somehow we have survived.

3. When I came to this country, the adjustment was difficult. However, I like to learn new things. I know I can handle challenges by setting goals and working hard.

4. I prefer not to look too far ahead.

4. Five years from now I will have more education and I’d like to have a more responsible position at work .

5. I usually keep to myself, so I’m not sure what they would say.

5. I think they’d say that I’m hardworking and easy to get along with.

6. My weakness is I’ve never worked before, but I’d be happy if you give me a chance.

6. I haven’t had much employment experience, but I’ve managed a lot of responsibilities at home and school. I’m dependable and I’m sure I can learn quickly.

7. Well, not as good as I would like, but I get along all right.

7. I’m sure I can communicate well enough to do this job, and I’m improving every day. Currently, I attend an advanced English class.

8. Yes, I am, if I have to.

8. Yes, I am available nights and weekends.

9. No, thank you.

9. Yes, could you tell me about the training you offer for new employees?

4. Work with your classmates to make another positive answer for each question.

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8/28/2012 12:19 AM

Successful Job Interviews: The Law

Do you know that some questions are illegal for employers to ask? It is against the law to discriminate against applicants on the basis of age, marital status, nationality and religion. Therefore, an experienced employer will not ask about these topics. You should not offer information about your family, age, or religious beliefs because it could make the employer uncomfortable.

How old are you? What is your religion?

Do you go to church? Are you pregnant?

Are you married? How is your health?

Do you have children? Are you planning to have children?

How tall are you? When were you born?

Where were you born?

Successful Job Interviews: Questions to Ask the Employer

Job counselors remind us that an interview is a conversation or two-way street. This means the applicant should be prepared to ask questions, too. Your questions will indicate that you are prepared and serious about the job. Usually an employer will give you a chance to ask questions near the end of the interview. The following questions are considered appropriate to ask:

Does this job usually lead to other positions? Which ones?

What are the opportunities for advancement?

How would you describe a typical day for this position?

How are employees evaluated in your company?

If I were offered a job, how soon would you like me to begin?

What is the next step in the interview process?

Counselors typically advise against asking about salary, vacations, or benefits. Also, be patient and don’t ask right away if you got the job. Choose two questions to memorize.

Do you have any questions for me?

What are the opportunities for advancement?

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8/28/2012 12:19 AM

Successful Job Interviews: Role Play #1

Practice the interview with a classmate. Student A is the employer. Student B is the applicant.

A: Hello. I’m Mary Brown. B: Hello. I’m ___________ ___________________. (shake hands)

It’s nice to meet you. A: Nice to meet you too. Please, have a seat. B: Thank you. A: I hope you didn’t have any trouble finding our office. B: No, not at all. Your directions were very clear, thank you. A: Great. Let’s begin. Please tell me about yourself. B: Sure. I _________________________________________________________ A: All right. That sounds good. Why do you want to work here?

B: ________________________________________________________________ A: Fine. Please tell me about a difficult situation you have had to handle.

B: ________________________________________________________________ A: All right. What do you think your weaknesses are?

B: ________________________________________________________________ A: OK. Are you available to work nights and weekends?

B: ________________________________________________________________ A: Fine. Do you have any questions for me?

B: Yes, I do. If I were offered the job, how soon would you like me to begin?

A: Well, I’m hoping to have a new person with us at the start of next month. So, that concludes our interview. It’s been a pleasure meeting you. Thank you for coming in today. We’ll notify you of our decision next week.

B: Thank you very much. I’ve enjoyed meeting you, too. I look forward to hearing from you. (shake hands)

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8/28/2012 12:19 AM

Successful Job Interviews: Role Play #2

Practice the interview with two classmates. Student A is the employer. Student B is the applicant. Student C will fill out the checklist.

A: Hello. I’m Jeffrey Walden.

B: Hello. I’m ___________ ______________. It’s nice to meet you. (shake hands)

A: Nice to meet you, too. Please, have a seat.

B: Thank you. A: How was the traffic? Did you have any trouble getting here?

B: Oh, it was fine. No trouble at all. A: Great. I’m glad to hear that. Well now, would you begin by telling me a little bit about yourself?

B: Sure. I _________________________________________________________. A: All right. That sounds good. Where do you see yourself in five years?

B: ________________________________________________________________ A: Um hmm, and why did you leave your last job?

B: ________________________________________________________________ A: I see. How do you think your peers or co-workers would describe you?

B: ________________________________________________________________ A: That’s great. How are your English skills?

B: ________________________________________________________________ A: Fine. Do you have any questions for me?

B: Yes, I do. Could you describe the next step in the interview process?

A: Certainly. We have a few more candidates to interview this week. Then, we’ll invite two people to come back for a second interview. We’ll notify you of our decision next week. Well, thank you for coming in today. It’s been a pleasure meeting you.

B: Thank you very much. I’ve enjoyed meeting you, too. I look forward to hearing from you. (shake hands)

#33 Advanced


Successful Job Interviews: Checklist

Get together in a small group of three students. Choose a role: A. The employer B. The applicant C. The evaluator

The evaluator will watch and listen to two classmates performing Practice #1. Then, he or she will fill out the checklist below in the applicant’s student book. Change roles and repeat.

Fine

Needs Practice

Hand Shake

Smile

Posture

Clear, Audible Speech

Eye Contact

Personal Qualities

Skills

Experience

Question #1

Question #2

Question #3

Question #4

Question for the employer

Closing

#33 Advanced


#33 Advanced


Vocabulary for Job Applications Practice #1

Match the vocabulary word to the best definition. Write the letter of the definition next to the vocabulary word. 1. d position a. to complete a course of study or a

school program

2. _____ graduate b. the person/company you work for

3. _____ references c. at the present time; now

4. _____ availability d. the title or name of a job (cashier, mechanic, etc.)

5. _____ employer e. the occupation a person hopes to have in the future; future work plans

6. _____ most recent f. correct

7. _____ current g. people an employer can call to learn more about you

8. _____ long-term employment goals h. the question/information is not applicable to you

9. _____ N/A i. the date you can begin to work

10. _____ high school 11. _____ certify

12. _____ accurate

j. nearest to the present time k. guarantee; promise

l. secondary school

#33 Advanced


Vocabulary for Job Applications Practice #2

Fill in the blanks with the correct words.

1. Fill out means to _________________________. a. read b. write c. accept

2. Citizenship status does NOT include _______________________. a. Naturalized citizen b. Native-born citizen c. your name before marriage

3. Your current job is ____________________. a. your second job

b. the job you have now c. the job you had before

4. Special skills are ______________________.

a. sports b. things you can do well c. parents

5. Previous jobs are jobs ______________________. a. you have now b. you had in the past c. you are looking for

6. Your position in the company is your __________________________. a. location b. ambition c. job title

7. Your military record is a. service in the army b. employer c. business address

8. Your reason for leaving your past job means _________________________. a. why you like your job b. why you left your job c. why you want a job

9. References are _____________________________. a. people who told you about this job b. your family members c. people not related to you that an employer can call to learn more about you

10. Your former employer is __________________________.

a. your boss from a past job b. a boss on a farm c. the most important supervisor at your present job

#33 Advanced


Page 1 of 3

Application for Tomas Perez: Reading Practice

Use the information in Tomas’ application to answer the questions that follow.

NAME AND ADDRESS

Name

Perez , Tomas S. Last First Middle Initial Present Address

1024 Appleton Place #10 City

San Diego State

CA Zip Code

92117

Previous Address

4606 Garden Ave #33 City

Los Angeles State

CA Zip Code

94196

Phone No.

( 858 ) 455-3489

E-mail [email protected]

In case of emergency, contact:

Mariana Perez (858) 455-3489 Name Phone number

PERSONAL INFORMATION

Date of Birth Place of Birth

March 12, 1972 Mexico

Social Security Number

859-50-1010

Citizenship Status

Naturalized Citizen

Sex X Male ___Female

Do you have a valid driver’s license?

X Yes ___ No

If yes, what state?

CA

EMPLOYMENT INTEREST AND AVAILABILITY:

Position or type of work you are looking for:

Cook

Date you can start:

November 5

Preferences: X Full-time ___ Part-time X Day ___ Night

Are you employed?

X Yes ____ No

If so, may we inquire of your present employer?

X Yes ____ No

EDUCATION

Name of School Location Dates attended Course of Study

High School

Instituto Mexico

Tijuana, Mexico

XXXX-XXXX

General

College N/A

Other San Diego Continuing Education, Centre City

1400 Park Blvd San Diego, CA

9/2012 - present Advanced ESL

#33 Advanced


Page 2 of 3

EMPLOYMENT GOALS AND SKILLS

Describe your long-term employment goals:

I want to be a cook. Skills

Cooking Languages spoken:

Spanish and English

GENERAL INFORMATION

Hobbies, interests:

Fishing, cooking and volunteering for Meals on Wheels U.S. Military or Naval Service

N/A Rank

N/A

PAST EMPLOYMENT (List last two jobs, beginning with your current or most recent job)

Date (mo/yr) Company/Employer’s Name and Address Position Reason For Leaving

From 1/2011

Pizza House 4341 University San Diego, CA 92105

Pizza Delivery Person

still employed

To Present

From 9/2008

Los Angeles Times 202 W. 1st St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Newspaper Delivery Person

moved to San Diego

To 12/2010

OTHER INFORMATION

Do you have any physical limitations? ____ Yes X No If yes, explain:

Have you been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor since age 18? ___ Yes X No If yes, explain:

REFERENCES (Give the names of two persons not related to you who know you well)

Name Address & Phone Number Business/Occupation

Years Acquainted

Ron Jones 4606 Cahuengo #27 Los Angeles, CA 94196 (310) 445-6776

LA Times Distribution Manager

2

Ruby Merced

1029 Gates St. San Diego, CA 92117 (619) 256-8021

Restaurant Manager 2

I certify that the information provided on this application is true and correct.

Signature

Tomas S. Perez

Date

October 22, 2012

#33 Advanced


Page 3 of 3

Application for Tomás Perez: Comprehension Questions 1. Read the statements. Circle True (T) or False (F). Look at the job application that Tomas filled out to find the answers.

1. Tomas has a middle name. True False

2. He wants to be a deliveryman. True False

3. He didn’t go to college. True False

4. Tomas was born in the United States. True False

5. Tomas previously lived in Los Angeles. True False

6. Tomas worked for Pizza House before he True False worked for the Los Angeles Times.

7. Tomas is currently unemployed. True False

8. He has a California driver’s license. True False

9. He doesn’t have a criminal record. True False

10. Tomas is bilingual. True False 2. Answer the questions. Find the answers in Tomas’ application.

1. Is Tomas currently employed? ________________________________

2. What does he like to do during his free time? ___________________________

3. What position is he applying for? _________________________

4. When can he start? ______________________

5. Where did he go to high school? _______________________________

6. Why did Tomas quit his job with the Los Angeles Times? __________________

__________________________________________________________________

7. What are his schedule preferences? __________________________________

#33 Advanced


Page 1 of 2

Application for Isabel Lopez

Use this form to answer the questions on the next page.

1. Name Soc. Sec. No. (Last Name First)

2. Address Telephone 3. How long at that address? Are you 18 years or older? 4. What kind of work are you applying for?

EDUCATION

5. Last school attended (Name and address)

6. Circle last year completed: Grade 5 6 7 8 High School 9 10 11 12 College 1 2 3 4 5

7. Special Training and Skills

EXPERIENCE (List the most recent employer first.)

Name and Address of Company

Date Duties Salary Reason for Leaving

From To

8

9 10 11 12 13

14

15

MILITARY SERVICE

16. Branch Duties

17. Rank at time of discharge

BUSINESS REFERENCES

Name Address Business Years Acquainted

18. 19. 20. 21.

22.

23. Do you have any physical limitations that will affect your work?

24. Signature Date

#33 Advanced


Page 2 of 2

Application for Isabel Lopez Where should she put the information?

Work with a partner. Read about Isabel Lopez in the box below. Decide where she should put the information on her application.

Isabel has a part-time job. She’s a seamstress*at Best Tailoring. She has worked at her present job at for two years. Before that, she was an assembler but she was laid off. Now she wants to fill out an application for another job. She needs more money. She wants to be a full-time seamstress. Isabel has only one problem. She has a bad back. She needs to stand up every two hours at work. At the interview she will say, “Don’t worry. I can still do this job well.” Isabel is confident about her English. She is in an advanced ESL class at West City Center.

Write the number of the space where she should put the information. 1. 8 Where should Isabel write the name of the company she works for now?

2. ______ Where should Isabel write the name of the company she worked for before as an assembler?

3. ______ Where should Isabel sign her name: Isabel Lopez?

4. ______ Where should Isabel write: 562-08-9354?

5. ______ Where should Isabel write: 1475 Bancroft St., Spring Valley, CA 91977?

6. ______ Where should Isabel write: Lopez, Isabel?

7. ______ Where should Isabel write: Yes, back injury. I need to stand up every two hours. ?

8. ______ Where should Isabel write: N/A (because she wasn’t in the military)?

9. ______ Where should Isabel write: West City Center, 3890 Modoc Street, San Diego, CA

92117?

10. ______ Where should Isabel circle: 8 (because she went to school in Mexico for eight

years)?

11. ______ Where should Isabel write: Bob Jones? (He’s her supervisor and can say nice things about her.) 12. ______ Where should Isabel write: present (because she is working at a job right now)?

13. ______ Where should Isabel write: sewing jeans, cleaning machines (because those are her

current job duties)?

* Seamstress- a person who sews professionally. A seamstress makes clothes and can also

tailor clothes to make them fit better.

#33 Advanced


9/4/2012 1:00 PM

Job Application Practice #1 Fill out an application for Cristina B. Miller. Use a form at the end of your booklet.

Cristina B. Miller

2015 B Street San Diego, CA 92101

(619) 233- 9986 [email protected]

OBJECTIVE to obtain a position as an office assistant SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS

Six years experience in an office environment

Dependable, detail-oriented, team player

Computer Skills: Microsoft Office Suite

Good oral and written communication skills

Bilingual: English and Portuguese RELATED WORK EXPERIENCE

Secretary, Ibex Corporation Rio de Janiero, Brazil

Word processed correspondence and documentation

Maintained file system, retrieved files on request

Answered phones, provided general information

2/2006 – 5/2011

ADDITIONAL WORK EXPERIENCE

Cashier, Lenny’s Restaurant, San Diego, California

Provide friendly customer service

Handle cash and credit transactions accurately

Operate a computerized register

6/2011 - Present

Clerk, Rio Department Store Rio de Janiero, Brazil

6/2005 – 1/2006

EDUCATION

Advanced ESL San Diego Continuing Education, Centre City Campus San Diego, California

9/2011 - Present

Dom Feliciano High School Rio de Janiero, Brazil

#33 Advanced


9/4/2012 1:00 PM

Additional Information for Cristina B. Miller Use this additional information about Cristina B. Miller to complete her job application.

Social Security Number: 695-01-2528

Wants full-time work; prefers day shift

Wants to work as an office assistant

Place of birth: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Legal resident in the U.S.

Date of Birth: January 9, 1985

Wants to start work immediately

May 2011 - Left job at Ibex Corporation in Brazil; moved to the United States to get married.

January 2006 - Left job at Rio Department store to get a better job at Ibex Corporation.

Has a car and a California driver’s license

Never served in the U.S. military

No physical limitations

Never convicted of a felony or misdemeanor

Employer Contact Information: Lenny’s Restaurant 2018 E. St. San Diego, CA 92101 Ibex Corporation 345 Rua Projetada Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 20730

Personal References: Melissa Block Manager, Lenny’s Restaurant 2018 E Street San Diego, CA 92101

(619) 298-6574

Carl Kenny, ESL Teacher Instructor, San Diego Continuing Education 3210 10th Ave., San Diego, CA 92101

(619) 433-8772

#33 Advanced


9/4/2012 1:00 PM

Job Application Practice #2 Fill out an application for Sen Vang. Use a form at the end of your booklet.

Sen Vang

1234 Tyler Rd., #3C Los Angeles, CA 90021

(310) 345-2468 [email protected] OBJECTIVE: to obtain a position as an auto service manager QUALIFICATIONS

Experienced, detail oriented, hardworking and honest

Bilingual: English and Vietnamese EMPLOYMENT Assistant Manager, Auto Services 06/2009 - Present Central Rent-a-Car, Los Angeles, CA

supervise ten mechanics

order all supplies

handle customer service Auto Mechanic 05/2007 – 05/2009 Jack’s Auto Shop, Los Angeles, CA

performed routine maintenance and repair services

troubleshot and diagnosed mechanical problems

maintained clean and orderly shop

EDUCATION Computer Technology courses 2011 - Present City Community College, Los Angeles, CA High school graduate Jackson High School, Los Angeles, CA

#33 Advanced


9/4/2012 1:00 PM

Additional Information for Sen Vang Use this additional information about Sen Vang to complete his job application.

Social Security Number: 621-84-1140

He was born on July 3, 1988.

Sen can start a new job two weeks from now.

It is OK to call his present employer.

He has a valid driver’s license from California.

He would like a full-time position.

He wants another job because he wants more opportunity for advancement.

He goes to school in the evening, so he needs daytime hours.

Currently he earns $18.25 an hour. He would like to earn $20.00 an hour to

start with a possibility to advance.

Sen has never applied to this company before.

Sen’s friend, Jason Enders, told him about this job opening.

Sen went to elementary school in Saigon, Vietnam.

He has never been in the military.

He has never been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor.

He left Jack’s Auto Shop because he found a better opportunity.

Employer Contact Information:

Central Rent-a Car

416 Lincoln Ave

Los Angeles, CA 90041

Jack’s Auto Shop

References:

Dennis Horn, Instructor of Industrial Education, City Community College Los Angeles, CA 90041 (310) 430-9234 Jack Carter, owner of Jack’s Auto Shop 214 Los Alamos Drive Los Angeles, CA 90024 (310) 399-2323

214 Los Alamos Drive

Los Angeles, CA 90024

#33 Advanced


9/4/2012 1:00 PM

#33 Advanced


9/4/2012 1:00 PM

Find the Mistakes

Your application tells a future employer more than your personal and employment history. It shows if you understand English and can follow instructions. It also shows how much you care about doing a job well. An excellent application is your “ticket” to getting an interview!

Read information on this application carefully. Circle twelve mistakes.

APPLICATION FOR EMPLOYMENT Name

Chao , Pamela M. Last First Middle Initial

Present Address

10th Street City

San Diego State

CA Zip Code

92101

Previous Address

321 Oak Street City State

Zip Code

91941

Phone No.

( 619 ) 606-10-10

In case of emergency, contact:

Jason Yee _______________

Name Phone number

PERSONAL INFORMATION Date of Birth Place of

birth

19/4/83 Hong Kong


599-60-1005

Citizenship Status

Legal resident

Sex

___ Male

___Female

Do you have a valid driver’s license?

X Yes ___ No

If yes, what state?

CA

EMPLOYMENT INTEREST AND AVAILABILITY:

Position or type of work you are

looking for:

Personal Fitness Trainer

Date you can start:

9/01/12

Preferences:

X Full-time __ Part-time

X Day __ Night

Are you employed?

X Yes ______ No

If so, may we inquire of your present employer?

X Yes ______ No

OTHER INFORMATION

Do you have any physical limitations? ____ Yes ____ No

If yes, explain:

Have you been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor since age 18? ___ Yes X No

If yes, explain:

#33 Advanced


9/4/2012 1:00 PM

EDUCATION

Name of

School

Location Dates attended Course of Study

High

School Lingnan Secondary

School Hong Kong XXXX - XXXX College Prep

College Hong Kong University Hong Kong 9/00-6/04 Physical Education

Other San Diego, CA 9/011 - present ESL

EMPLOYMENT GOALS AND SKILLS

Describe your long-term employment goals:

I want to be a physical education teacher. Subjects of special study or special training/skills:

Physical Education, Computer Literacy Languages spoken:

I speak China and English GENERAL INFORMATION Hobbies, interests:

volunteering at the local elementary school, dancing, playing the violin U.S. Military or Naval Service

None Rank

N/A PAST EMPLOYMENT (List last two jobs, beginning with your current or most recent job)

Date (mo/yr) Company/Employer’s Name and Address Position Reason For Leaving

From

9/03 Macy’s 5500 Grossmont Drive La Mesa, CA 92941

cashier

To

9/06

From

9/06 Bob’s Restaurant 3211 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92105

waitress currently employed

To

Present

REFERENCES (Give the names of two persons not related to you who know you well)

Name Address & Phone Number Occupation

Mary Lou

1031 12th Avenue La Mesa, CA 91941 (619) 896-9876

Physician

Cynthia Baker

1135 B Street San Diego, CA 90211 (619) 343-8521

Teacher


Signature

Pamela Marie Chao

Date

8/15/12

#33 Advanced


9/4/2012 1:00 PM

PRACTICE APPLICATION FOR EMPLOYMENT

Fill out the application. Use the information about other people provided for you.

Application for Employment

Name _____________________________, _________________ ____________________ Last First Middle Initial

Present Address

City

State Zip Code

Phone No. ( )

Email Address


Are you 18 or older? Are you legally able to work in the U.S.?


Sex ___ Male ___Female

Do you have a valid driver’s license? __ Yes ___ No

If yes, what state? __________

EMPLOYMENT INTEREST AND AVAILABILITY


Date you can start: Preferences: __ Full-time ___ Part-time ___ Day ___ Night

EDUCATION

Name of School Location Dates attended

High School

xxxx - xxxx

College or University

Vocational School or Continuing Education Program

#33 Advanced


9/4/2012 1:00 PM


Date (month & year)

Company/Employer’s Name and Address Position Reason For Leaving

From

To

From

To

OTHER INFORMATION Languages spoken:

U.S Military Or Naval Service _____Yes _____No

Years of Service:

Do you have any physical limitations? ____ Yes ____ No If yes, explain:

Have you been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor since age 18? ___ Yes ___ No If yes, explain:

REFERENCES (Provide the names of two persons not related to you who know you well)

Name

Address & Phone Number Occupation


Signature Date

#33 Advanced


9/4/2012 1:00 PM

PRACTICE APPLICATION FOR EMPLOYMENT

Fill out the application. Use the information about other people provided for you.

Application for Employment

Name _____________________________, _________________ ____________________ Last First Middle Initial

Present Address

City

State Zip Code

Phone No. ( )

Email Address


Are you 18 or older? Are you legally able to work in the U.S.?


Sex ___ Male ___Female

Do you have a valid driver’s license? __ Yes ___ No

If yes, what state? __________

EMPLOYMENT INTEREST AND AVAILABILITY


Date you can start: Preferences: __ Full-time ___ Part-time ___ Day ___ Night

EDUCATION

Name of School Location Dates attended

High School

xxxx - xxxx

College or University

Vocational School or Continuing Education Program

#33 Advanced


9/4/2012 1:00 PM


Date (month & year)

Company/Employer’s Name and Address Position Reason For Leaving

From

To

From

To

OTHER INFORMATION Languages spoken:

U.S Military Or Naval Service _____Yes _____No

Years of Service:

Do you have any physical limitations? ____ Yes ____ No If yes, explain:

Have you been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor since age 18? ___ Yes ___ No If yes, explain:

REFERENCES (Provide the names of two persons not related to you who know you well)

Name

Address & Phone Number Occupation


Signature Date

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