Even minimum wage jobs are hard to get in any economy. Interviews are impossible hurdles to get over and I don't see the necessity of it, at least not in the way it's traditionally conducted. For instance, almost 10 years ago, I've interviewed with 20+ companies over a period of 2 years before getting a single offer. I stayed with that company (Sam's Club) for 5.5 years. If any of these 20 something companies offered me a job, I woulda had the same outcome.

When I searched for a 2nd job in addition to the one I had, I interviewed with 10 additional companies and received zero offers. I guess it's normal for people to get that many interviews and receive only a couple offers out of it. Or am I wrong? What's normal then?

I'm currently at McDonald's and looking for a 2nd job. I've had one interview and no offer. I've ran out of places to apply because most of the companies that ever interviewed me would not consider me the 2nd time.

I am sure the places where you apply probably have a very high turnover rate: retail, mcDonalds and other fast food places. But why would interviews not be necessary, Ruby? An employer needs to make sure they are hiring the right people -- it takes resources within a company and investment to train someone to work in a new establishment. They need to make sure the person will stay with them for more than just a few days and that the investment is worth their money and time. They also need to be sure that the employee has a good track record with other companies and will be professional on the job, doing as they are expected to do, when they're asked and responsible. It's an investment on the company's behalf, just as much as it is on the employee's behalf. The employee, is after all, the face and representative of that company's reputation -- no matter where you work or at what level. So yes, of course interviews are necessary.

And I am sorry you are struggling with getting second interviews. Are they calling your references? You don't have a solid track record or history with employment. This is why it is SO vital and SO critical to be professional on the job, at all times. You have had a very poor track record, and it may be contributing to your difficulties now, I am very sorry to say.

[divine1966]

I am sorry to hear that

I periodically take on a second job here and there (part time) which is usually retail. I never had an actual interview. They usually just hire. I mean they ask when you can start and which evenings you can work. No one interviewed me. No one called references. The only time I had actual formal interviews is for a professional full time job. So in my experience interviews for minimum wage jobs aren’t necessarily because I never had any

I am really shocked you aren’t offered a job. Usually retail hires anyone as long as they are alive and breathing. I wonder what’s happening

Shouldn’t agencies that work with you help you with finding you a job? Your case managers? Should they train you how to behave during interviews? What are they saying about all this?

Good post Ruby! I am sorry that you've been struggling with interviews and hiring. There is research suggesting that employers often do not hire the best person for the job based on an interview. Apparently the typical employer usually decides whether the applicant will get the job or not within the first minute or two of them walking into the room. That's because humans are such visual creatures. So the employer is making a quick judgment based on appearance. Something for all of us to consider when we interview....appearance and outfit matter.

That must be frustrating when you go through so many interviews and don't receive an offer. That has not been my experience but my work is very specialized so I am typically not competing with a huge number of applicants.

How do you feel about your interview skills? I think that's helpful for all of us workers to practice. Sometimes I role play with a friend before an interview. Also helps me to feel calm and prepared.

I bet there are some great articles online about interview tips! I wish you the best of luck with your job search. You already started so you are at least halfway there!

10 Essential Tips to Prepare for an Interview/ Forbes Magazine

10 Essential Steps To Prepare Yourself For A Job Interview

My Top 10 Interview Tips/ Psychology Today
My Top 10 Job Interview Tips | Psychology Today

I hope you find these helpful Ruby! I particularly like how the second author says interviewing is something we learn. I have found that to be true for me. Good luck!

[divine1966]

Is it in your records that you were fired from anywhere or do you tell interviewers that you had whatever issues? What kind of questions do they ask you?

Originally Posted by divine1966

Is it in your records that you were fired from anywhere or do you tell interviewers that you had whatever issues? What kind of questions do they ask you?

They just go straight to behavior interview questions. As in "tell me about the time you..." or "describe when you..."

They don't ask for references on the applications. And they never even contacted my former employers. Hell, they don't even ask for former employer's phone number.

For instance I interviewed at Sears yesterday. It lasted just 4 questions taking only 8 minutes before it ended. Another candidate was interviewed the same time as me but with a different manager. As I left, I saw across the room that he wasn't even finished yet. Since all the questions were read off a paper, it means I finished early. But we'll see. I might still have a chance.

So idk...

Originally Posted by golden_eve

I am sure the places where you apply probably have a very high turnover rate: retail, mcDonalds and other fast food places. But why would interviews not be necessary, Ruby? An employer needs to make sure they are hiring the right people -- it takes resources within a company and investment to train someone to work in a new establishment. They need to make sure the person will stay with them for more than just a few days and that the investment is worth their money and time. They also need to be sure that the employee has a good track record with other companies and will be professional on the job, doing as they are expected to do, when they're asked and responsible. It's an investment on the company's behalf, just as much as it is on the employee's behalf. The employee, is after all, the face and representative of that company's reputation -- no matter where you work or at what level. So yes, of course interviews are necessary.

And I am sorry you are struggling with getting second interviews. Are they calling your references? You don't have a solid track record or history with employment. This is why it is SO vital and SO critical to be professional on the job, at all times. You have had a very poor track record, and it may be contributing to your difficulties now, I am very sorry to say.

Job interviews are necessary but maybe the question and answer format may not be for everyone. Maybe have multiple candidates work together on a difficult task. Or hell, a trial work day.

Originally Posted by ruby2011

Job interviews are necessary but maybe the question and answer format may not be for everyone. Maybe have multiple candidates work together on a difficult task. Or hell, a trial work day.

I understand your frustration completely. Trust me. I think others have given you some great advice here. Can you work with your counselor/worker on how to go through the interview process so that you can land that second interview and the job?

[divine1966]

What do you answer to those questions. Some people don’t interview well. Sometimes because of certain conditions.

My husband has Tourette’s syndrome with OCD, sometimes it interferes with interviewing process and sometimes not. He is great in what he does but when Tourette’s and OCD kicks in there is no way of telling what could come out of his mouth.

One time he wanted to switch hospitals he works at and he was interviewed for a position elsewhere and when asked about what would you do in certain situation he told some long story that was completely irrelevant, he didn’t know why he told that story, it made no sense. We both laughed afterwards, it wasn’t even related to his job. Needless to say he wasn’t asked for a second interview.

At the hospital he is now he was hired right at the interview. He was walking towards his car when they called to say they want him. Tourette’s didn’t kick in that day.

So is it possible that ASD interferes with how you answer questions? Could you rehearse some stuff ahead of time? Are you too honest or too evasive or too vague or too specific? Should your case manager coach you about this?

Saying all that, I’d say minimum wage jobs don’t have second interviews. You are either hired or you don’t

[WishfulThinker66]

Ruby, I find your post interesting.

As a past manager in the retail and food service industries, I was the person who did the interviewing and hiring of staff. I can tell you, they are just as difficult for the person conducting the interview as the person being interviewed. They are stressful for us too. They are in fact absolutely necessary. I would never hire someone without an interview. And, even a positive interview can ultimately not be successful. I have a few times thought I have hired the right person only to be forced to let them go.

A job interview is the number one indication of how successful a candidate may be. I look not only for potential success but indicators of the individuals work ethic, professionalism, and potential to get along with existing staff in the present environment. I do not necessarily look for the ability of a person to perform the duties of employment, I LOOK PRIMARILY FOR A PERSON OF THE RIGHT FIT. Is the person trainable? I can train them to do the duties as long as they will be the right fit. And that is the right person for the job.

You seem to be having difficulties conducting yourself in the interview process. You need to consider what has happened in the past and re-vamp your plan of action accordingly. One needs to pay as much attention to planning out and practising interviews as they do to perfecting their resume.

These are questions to ask yourself and ponder:

a. are you presentable? It doesn't matter if the job is food service you still need to show up to the interview professionally dressed and with a well kept appearance. Perhaps you might need to make an investment in some clothing. If this is difficult, many communities have programs for women where by they loan out clothing for the very purpose of getting into the work force.

b. are you professional? As important as your appearance is your demeanor and behaviour. As a manager, I need to know you will take the position seriously and conduct yourself with the utmost of decorum.

c. are you approachable? are you outgoing?

d. what is your character? Are you going to 'fit' into the environment and with other staff.

e. are you a team player?

d. are you willing to learn?

e. are you willing to do the less desirable tasks?

f. are you reliable? and,

g. do you have a strong work ethic?

A negative response to any of these important considerations is going to result in not being hired.

Ruby, there are ways to going about improving your interview skills. The local mental health association may be able to help you with this. Women's organisations regularly have classes on resume writing and building interview skills. Even check your local library for courses they usually have too. There are a lot of resources out there.

Finally, practise. Pull of the internet example interview questions and plan and prepare how to respond to them. Consider what the interviewer is going to look for. Do a little research on the type of job you are applying for: what are the skills involved and how can you demonstrate you possess them? Practise by having a friend play the part of the interviewer. Before you have an interview, prepare. Ask yourself; am I appropriately attired, am I going to act professionally, am I going to behave appropriately?

Ruby, interviewing is hard. Yet, with some planning, preparation, and forethought you can knock them out of the ball park.

[WishfulThinker66]

Originally Posted by divine1966

I am sorry to hear that

I periodically take on a second job here and there (part time) which is usually retail. I never had an actual interview. They usually just hire. I mean they ask when you can start and which evenings you can work. No one interviewed me. No one called references. The only time I had actual formal interviews is for a professional full time job. So in my experience interviews for minimum wage jobs aren’t necessarily because I never had any

I am really shocked you aren’t offered a job. Usually retail hires anyone as long as they are alive and breathing. I wonder what’s happening

Shouldn’t agencies that work with you help you with finding you a job? Your case managers? Should they train you how to behave during interviews? What are they saying about all this?

Divine, you present yourself well on this forum and I will go so far as to say you generate a great first impression. Good on you for your ability to demonstrate you are that right person for the jobs you seek.

I must comment though that a great deal of how employers seek out new hires is an indication of the current employment environment. I have managed in communities with a very healthy employment atmosphere where there are plentiful jobs to go around. In these cities you are right, we hired who and what we could get. Frankly, in such a time of plentiful employment few want to work the service industries. But the norm these days is a very unhealthy employment situation where job seekers are many and jobs are sparse. Consequently, there is a high competition for jobs - which puts employers in the position of picking and choosing where they otherwise wouldn't be. Faced with many candidates for the same job, an employer has no choice but to weed out the chaffe and conduct interviews.

[WishfulThinker66]

I want to also touch on resumes....

Ruby this is your first chance to 'wow' a potential employer. A well thought out, planned, and crafted resume will better your odds of getting a position. Take this rule in hand: the better the resume the easier and shorter the interview is going to be.

That is not to say to jam pack your resume with everything you can think of. Consider your resume a picture you paint of that which you desire the prospective employer to know about you and what impression you intend.

Do NOT hand in resumes that are longer than a single page. Do not list off every single position you have ever had. Rather, include those jobs that demonstrate the skills and experience necessary to the job you seek. Make a clear and concise statement of intent and follow that up with examples. Mature adult seeks full-time employment in the food service industry. I possess the necessary skills and experience which include the following...... Now list off a few highlights of jobs you've had in the industry. If you do have a lengthy positive job history then merely mention more details are available on request. Just, please, avoid a complete list of every job you have ever had. Also, if a position did not end positively, don't mention it at all.

Ruby, I mentioned courses in building interview skills. Many of these same courses will also teach you how to prepare a great resume or CV.

[seesaw]

Ruby,

On your applications do they ask if you were ever fired from a job and do you list yes? I know you were previously fired from the job at a fast food place because of the situation with the manager. And then do they ask you about that situation in the interview?

I think there is more going on here than just multiple interviews and it being hard. I think something in your past history is coming to the employer's attention and they possibly aren't getting a satisfactory response from you on the outcome.

Have you done any interview training? I think if you're interviewing that much and not getting anything, then you need some interview coaching, and to practice with some role playing.

Seesaw

[WishfulThinker66]

It depends entirely on your laws pertaining to employment. In Canada for instance, most provinces do not allow a former employer to discuss a person's work and performance. In Alberta, by example, all I was legally permitted to do when called for a reference was confirm the individual was under my employ for X amount of time. I could not comment on that employment. You cannot say whether the person left on their own request or was let go. I could neither recommend the past employee nor advise the potential employer seeking reference that the person was a poor candidate for hire. It is the law. Similarly, during interview, you cannot ask the candidate if they have ever been fired. This is why it is so very important for a potential employer to contact personal references. You would be surprised how many people would not recommend their acquaintance be hired.

[seesaw]

Originally Posted by WishfulThinker66

It depends entirely on your laws pertaining to employment. In Canada for instance, most provinces do not allow a former employer to discuss a person's work and performance. In Alberta, by example, all I was legally permitted to do when called for a reference was confirm the individual was under my employ for X amount of time. I could not comment on that employment. You cannot say whether the person left on their own request or was let go. I could neither recommend the past employee nor advise the potential employer seeking reference that the person was a poor candidate for hire. It is the law. Similarly, during interview, you cannot ask the candidate if they have ever been fired. This is why it is so very important for a potential employer to contact personal references. You would be surprised how many people would not recommend their acquaintance be hired.

I would have to look up the laws by state, but in some states here in the US (Ruby is US, if I recall) you can be asked if you've ever been fired. Employers can state the dates of your employment and your position. I think it depends on which state whether or not the employer can say if you were fired or resigned. Regardless, the hiring employer can ask why you left a certain job. And I suspect that may be where Ruby is getting tripped up. They will also ask about holes in employment history.

I have also done plenty of hiring, so I'm not unfamiliar with the process on the employer side. Again, it depends on the state as to the restrictions on questions. If they see, for example, that she worked somewhere for 5 years, then left, and has been looking for a position every since, that would be a red flag to me. Why did you leave the old job if you were still wanting to be employed? There are safe ways to answer this, but unless Ruby prepped, she could get tripped up to saying more than she should.

Again, I think an interview coach would be helpful for her.

why are interviews necessary? because employers only want to hire employees that have the skills they need. no company wants to pay $$ to someone who is an ill fit to their operation...someone who is unable to work at the level needed or can not master the skills required. period. or hire an employee that has issues with the workplace & has had behavioral issues.

one way to assess this is to interview the person who wants a job. they will bring in your employment history etc and speak to you about it all to get a better picture of what you would bring to the table...because again $$ is the end line. if painting is the product and you can't do it, well they don't need you, or if strong team work is important and that is an issue, same thing.