How can I succeed in an interview?

Here is a list of the essential steps to prepare for and succeed in an interview with a potential employer. For more detailed information about each of these steps, please see the Appendix D, PG. 622.

Thoughtfully answer each interview question.Ask your own questions.Practice beforehand!

If possible, you should try to do a practice (“mock”) interview before the real thing with your case manager, social worker, counselor, or even family or friends. Remember, even if you have your answers prepared on paper or in your head, things will sound different when you try to say them out loud!

Be polite and confident during the interview.Follow-up after the interview.

Additional Job Interview Resources:Here are some resources that can help you prepare for a job interview:

Tips for the Ex-Offender (Wisconsin Job Center)—http://www.wisconsinjobcenter.org/exo/eo_criminal_background.pdfInterview Tips (Jobs Not Jails)—http://jailstojobs.org/html/interview_tips.html10 Job-Search Tips for Reentry (EASTBAY Works)—https://www.eastbayworks.com/alamedacounty/admin/gsipub/htmlarea/uploads/000311-Reentry_Employment_Resource_Lists_(Complete)_072908.docConnect with a workforce development program that can help counsel and coach you through the job application and interview process. For a list of these workforce development programs, see Appendix B, PG. 619 on PG. 619. You can also ask a case manager, local reentry program counselor, or workforce development staff person for other suggestions in your area, or call 2-1-1 to ask about other programs in your area.For more information about how to talk about your conviction record with an employer, see PG. Error! Bookmark not defined..

Understand & explain the benefits of Hiring People with Records to the Potential employer

Learn here about two government programs that are meant to encourage employers to hire people with criminal records: (1) the Federal Bonding Program and (2) the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC).