Scared to death of going on job interview tomorrow

[sleepy1]

Hi Gang,

I have not posted in a very long time, but have been lurking
. Well here is a little info about me, I have been a stay at home mom for 12 years, all of which I have thoroughly enjoyed. Well I am now looking to go back to work part time. I am partly afraid and excited. Well here is some more info...7 years ago I was a size 10 and then began working out, cardio and strength training. I lost weight immediately and have for the last 6 1/2 years been a size 0-2, depending on the maker of the clothing. Well all this info is because I have the job interview with Curves for Women( a womens circuit training gym). For all these years I have been asked by strangers if I am a personal trainer, and the people that know and love me think I should definately work at a gym because it is my passion, so why am I so scared? Well I guess low confidence . So even though you don't know me could you spare maybe some good thoughts my way? Thanks

Carrie

 

[Karista]

I'll offer you some good wishes.....you're singing my song! Although I'm not a size "0" (LOL), I have been a stay-at-home mom for 12 years and wanting to get back into the working world. I'm not worried about working, it's just getting past the interview!

Good luck to you and just keep thinking how good that relief feeling will be when you're on your way home afterwards. Hopefully you'll gain so much confidence that you can cheer me on when it's my turn!

 

[lisajl]

I was a stay at home mom for only a couple of years. I have been working part time for quite a while.

You can do this. Especailly at Curves.
I go there to exercise! The women that are in charge are wonderful, sweet people.
They are always having a good time. You will do well! Believe in yourself!

Part time is nice...still have time for the family, get some extra money, meet wonderful people, etc.

Think of something positive, it always helped me when I went on interviews. Plus, I thought if I get it, I get it, if I don't there is something better out there for me.

Good luck....Let us know the outcome!

Lisa

 

[Itsanalias]

I approach every interview the same way. I go into an interview with the attitude that I'm going there to make a friend. If I can get the person who's interviewing me to have a conversation instead of a question and answer session, it makes it that much harder for them to say no to me when the time comes. I've never not gotten a job that I've really wanted.

Good luck!!

 

[Adrianna]

Just charm the pants off of them!! Well, not literally

 

[Planogirl]

I believe that just about everyone is scared of interviews even if they're confident people. Don't worry! Just be yourself, be polite and remember that the other person is probably a bit nervous too. Imagine them in their underwear if it doesn't make you giggle.

Let us know how it goes.

 

[jwsqrdplus2]

I just had my first job interview in over 13 years yesterday, so I feel your pain. I had been a stay at home mom for the last 2 years and in the military prior to that. Not only did I have to interview, I have to buy a whole new wardrobe since I own no business clothes at all!!

But...I got the job! Sending you some pixie dust to help you get your job.

 

[Disney Doll]

I think a gym would be a great place for you to work. You could tell the people your story...sort of like a "If I can do it, so can you" thing!!!

Good luck!

 

[sleepy1]

Thanks for the kind words, you guys are making me smile. Now I am off to buy some new clothes to interview in. As a stay at home mom nobody cared what I wore lol. Now here is another dilema, do you think for this sort of position I should interview in a nice workout outfit, or be more professional and wear a nice skirt and blouse? I have really nice workout clothes so that will not be a problem but not a lot of nice skirts and blouses so that is why I am off to go shopping. So now I will be thinking of this all night .....workout clothes or nice skirt and blouse?????????????

 

[Adrianna]

Hard to say, but something that would show off your great physique, so they know how good of shape you're in. I'd guess workout clothes would be more appropriate, if you'll be wearing that type of gear while working there, but I really don't know for sure. I don't think a skirt/blouse are necessary, maybe just something casual but nice?

BTW you have a PM

 

[TigerBear]

I don't think I would go to an interview in workout clothes. What about a sleeveless silk tank and skirt - something that shows off your figure but is professional.

I also think Itsanalias has given you some good advice. Being friendly, cooperative, approachable, etc. is very important. Having been on both sides of the table, the interviewer wants to know this is someone they will enjoy working with. Also, remember that you are there almost as much to interview them - to find out whether it is the right job for you.

Good luck!

 

[disykat]

At my curves I'd recommend a a pair of slacks for the interview. Do you know much about Curves? I'd focus on things like "bringing exercise to people who might be intimidated by it" etc. Most of the gals at mine are into getting into shape, but specifically chose Curves because it is less intimidating than a gym. There is also a religious aspect to many of the Curves - even though it is very low key. At ours they have Bible verses posted on bulletin boards etc. It might help if you are comfortable with that sort of thing.

Most of the gals that work at mine know next to nothing about exercise - I think it would be wonderful to have someone like you working there!

 

[helenabear]

I would have suggested a skirt and blouse for the interview no matter where it is... but I am not familar with places like that at all. Just wanted to wish you all the best!!! I am sure you will do great

 

[mtemm]

I used to hate interviews, until I ended up as a recruiter and had to do the interviewing! LOL! Realize that the person you are meeting with really wants to fill a position, he/she really wants to like you. A good interview should be like a conversation, after all, you are interviewing them, too. Good luck!!!!!!!

some standard tips for you. copied from a form I used to have, so take the cheesey language with a grain of salt.

Dress in conservative business attire. It has been said that the image we present to the world determines the manner in which we will be greeted.

Maintain a dignified stature. Keep your chin up and stand tall, just as if you owned the world!

Research the company prior to the interview and plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early in order to fill out any paperwork. Fill out application thoroughly and attach a copy of your resume.

Greet decision maker with a firm handshake.

Maintain good eye contact, smile and be friendly.

Watch your language. Curt, crude and cutting statements find no home in successful person's speech patterns.

Always be positive when answering any questions. Be positive about past accomplishments and experiences.

Present yourself as someone who can really add value to an organization and show that you will fit into the work environment.

Overcome any negatives the employer brings up with a positive response. Don't forget that employees will test you in order to detect your interest level.

Make sure you express your interest in the company and in the position you are interviewing for. Ask for the job! and reiterate what you can offer the company.

The purpose for the interview is to secure an offer or a second interview.

Always thank the employer for his/her time and interview.

Send a brief thank you note to the decision maker as soon as possible.

 

[minniecarousel]

Carrie - my brother & SIL own 2 Curves (about to open a third). They are anxious to employ mature, responsible women. Just be yourself. As far as what to wear - I'd wear "business casual", def not work-out clothes. (you'll wear work-out clothes if you get the job!)