Job interviews can be rough, so it would make sense that they’re represented in movies. In true dramatic fashion, they’re a bit more interesting than normal, everyday interviews. Below are some of my favourite examples of what some good and bad interviews can look like. This may help next time you’re in an interview!
The Wolf of Wall Street – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qbZa69tIjoI
In this scene, Donnie sees Jordan’s expensive car in the car park. He approaches Jordan in the diner and asks how much he makes. When Jordan says he made $70K last month, Donnie asks to see a payslip, then immediately offers to quit his job on the spot and work for him… Which he does.
What to take away: Roughly 15% of jobs are filled via job boards (according to a 2016 survey by Lou Adler) so get creative when looking at potential positions.
The Devil Wears Prada – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2f2Kqt_KcE
In this scene, Andy interviews for a position as the Assistant to the Editor in Chief of a high fashion magazine. Miranda scolds Andy for not reading the magazine, not knowing who she was interviewing with and for not being dressed appropriately, for the area she was interviewing with.
What to take away: Research, research, research. When you’re interviewing for a position, you need to say not only why you would be a good fit, but why you chose to apply with that particular agency in the first place. You don’t need to be their #1 fan, but explaining what you found appealing about the environment is important.
The Internship – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XYG6tAMWFIo
In this scene, two “old-school” salesmen are interviewing for an internship at Google, despite their complete lack of technological knowledge. The first question the interviewers ask: “You’re shrunken down to the size of nickels and dropped in a blender. What do you do?”
What to take away: Never let yourself be surprised by interview questions. Whilst the characters secured the internships in the movie, senseless dribbling won’t lead to a job offer in real life. To start an interview off right, research some common interview questions and scenarios and practice these with a friend. Chances are the interviewer has done the same.
American Beauty – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TJh5wdvdfVE
In this scene, Kevin Spacey’s character tries to apply for a job while driving through a fast food restaurant. First, he is advised that there are no management positions available and that he is overqualified. His response is: “I’m looking for the least amount of responsibility” and “It seems unfair to presume I won’t be able to learn”.
What to take away: Know what you want, your skillset and prove your ability to learn on the position.
The Wedding Singer – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=spIQXowPaMc
This scene follows Robbie after he has abandoned his career as a Wedding Singer for a job that pays more to win over his co-worker and love interest. Robbie admits that he has no experience, but “I’m a big fan of money”, within the first few seconds of the interview.
What to take away: Learn how to sell your experience. In Robbie’s case, maybe mentioning that being a self-managed singer taught him how to handle his finances and work with clients from different backgrounds, rather than loving money might’ve won him the job. With that being said, apply for jobs that are within your scope – if you don’t have the experience or qualifications, there is a likely chance you won’t even have a look in.
As the examples above show, great interview advice can come from the most unexpected sources. Hopefully you learned a thing or two from these scenes! If not, enjoyed a few laughs… Job seeking and interviews can be tough, but with the right positions, research and attitude, you’ll get closer to your dream job!
Have any interview scenes you want us to check out or have any feedback on the above? Message us on our Facebook page.
Author: Holli Hope-Jones
