If you are applying through a college program, chances are your interview will be a telephone interview. If you go through the casting office, your interview will likely be face-to-face there at the Casting Office.
Telephone Interview Tips
Limit any background noise as much as possible. College dormitories are not known for their peace and quiet but be sure to turn off any television or music you may have playing in your room and close the door so that hallway noise doesn’t seep in. If you have a roommate, be sure that they know you are on an important phone call and shouldn’t be disturbed if at all possible. If you are using a cellphone for your interview, be sure that it is fully charged and never, never, ever as your interviewer to hold for an incoming call!
Personal Interview Tips
Always dress appropriately for your interview at the Casting Office. Shorts, mini-skirts or baggy pants down around your Joe Boxers are just not professional. Slacks (not jeans), a button down shirt and tie are appropriate for a man. Ladies should wear slacks (not jeans) or a skirt (knee length or lower) with a professional looking blouse that does not expose the breasts or belly. You may have a great body, but Disney isn’t looking for the next Britney Spears. Ladies should wear conservative makeup and try not to go overboard. This is the Walt Disney Company not the Barnum and Bailey Clown College.
Prepare for Your Interview
Do your homework and know what positions are available and which of those you would be well suited to. Be honest with your interviewer. If you suffer in the heat, taking a position as a Disney character that has to stay happy and active in a very hot character suit at sweltering temperatures is just not a good fit for you. If you have terrible telephone skills, taking a job at the Central Reservations Office wouldn’t be a good fit either.
Be clear as to whether you would take a seasonal position or a year-round position. College students have limited schedules. If you are a full-time student, be honest about your availability. If you are looking for a full-time position, you may want to consider an offer of a seasonal position as many seasonal personnel are kept on after the busy season. When Disney invests the kind of money they do to train cast members, they like to be able to keep them on after the busy season.
Be confident, not cocky, and be prepared to discuss your background and interests. Your interviewer is looking for the best fit for you and trying to make yourself sound like somebody you aren’t won’t be good for you or the company.
Prepare a list of questions for your interviewer ahead of time. They will ask you if you have any questions and having a prepared list will show them that you know what you’re doing and what you are looking for.
Bring a notebook and pen. A small pocket sized one will do. This can contain your questions for them as well as provide you with a place to write down any details mentioned or further instructions.
Relax and prepare yourself. Nervous interviewees stammer, stutter and say “um” a lot. Don’t be one of them.
Think before you speak. Don’t take 20 minutes to mull an answer, but don’t just blurt everything out as it comes to you. Be sure to have your thoughts straight before speaking.
Smile! It will put both you and your interviewer at ease. Even if you are on a phone interview, a smile will project through your voice. Trust me. It will.
For more general interview tips, visit the Families.com Jobs Blog.
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