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James Jackson is 16 years old and has just completed his GCSEs. He applied for a Trainee Carpenter and Joiner's job with a small company of twenty people. He had learned about the job by chance 'networking' with family and friends. About a week after sending his letter of application he received a phone call asking him to attend an interview the following week. He had a straightforward interview with no trick questions. We asked him how it went.
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 Did you prepare for the interview?
'I really tried my best and visited the public and school careers libraries but there was no information on such a small company. But, I did find some information about carpentry and joinery which I thought might be useful.' 'In fact, they did ask me "what do you know about us?" at the interview and so I was able to talk a little about what I'd read about. At least it was some kind of answer'.
What did you wear?
'I haven't got a suit so I followed the advice to wear something smart and comfortable - I chose some casual trousers and an open neck long sleeved white shirt (I didn't want to wear a tie). When I got there I saw the people on site wearing their overalls but I didn't feel overdressed for the occasion.'
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(James was interviewed by two people: the owner of the business and his son, one of the directors of the company.)
How did it go?
'They just confirmed some of the details I had included in my application and asked me general questions about myself - my hobbies and about my thoughts for a career.' Were you nervous? 'I had read the tips about attending interviews, like "sitting still" - but I'm sure I didn't and I know my mouth dried up a bit because I coughed once or twice. I couldn't think of any questions to ask at the end of the interview so I just said "You've answered them all, thank you." I really wasn't sure how I had done'.
Did you get the job?
'I had a phone call a few days later - and I got the job! When I think about it, I reckon they offered me the job because I was polite and gave the impression I really wanted it, which I did. I think they felt I would fit in with the other people there and that I would do well in the job'.
Well done, Jim!
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