How to Ace a Housekeeping Job Interview
It is normal for some people to be nervous before interviewing for a job. Housekeeping is considered a form of unskilled labor, but it requires physical effort, knowledge of cleaning and the determination to work until a job is finished. Interviewers for housekeeping jobs are looking for hard workers who know how to dress, act and interact with other people.
Arrive on time to the interview. Be clean and neat. Wear clean, ironed clothing that is appropriate for housekeeping work, for example, a pair of khakis, a cotton polo and rubber-soled shoes. Appear as you might appear for a day of work as a housekeeper. This way, your potential employer will be able to envision you doing this work. If you wear sandals and a tight skirt, the interviewer may have more difficulty picturing you working as a housekeeper. Leave no doubt in the interviewer's mind that you are a good candidate for this housekeeping job by dressing appropriately.
Be open and willing to talk about yourself. If you are shy, consider practicing with a friend. Make eye contact, smile and shake the interviewer's hand. An interviewer for a housekeeping job will likely ask you about yourself, in addition to asking you about your housekeeping experience and knowledge. Be ready to talk about your work and life experiences. Being personable and a good conversationalist does not mean that you must answer illegal questions. While you are unlikely to be asked inappropriate questions, know that you are not required to divulge your age, marital status, number of children or religion. If you choose to chat about these things, that is acceptable, but you may not be required.
Listen carefully to what the interviewer has to say and do not interrupt. Show him that you take this housekeeping job seriously. Ask questions if you think of any.
Plan ahead. Research a little about cleaning issues and cleaning supplies. For example, you should know that ammonia and bleach may not be mixed because this creates toxic fumes. In general, most housekeeping employers will have supplies that they purchase for cleaning people to use, but having knowledge of cleaning supplies or techniques can only help you get the job.