Originally Posted By Hidden Troop Hi everyone! Some people from WDW are comming to my school to interview students for the college internship program. I was wondering if any one could help me answer a few questions i have. What exactly are they looking for in students, and what kind of students do they usually hire. Thanks everyone.
Originally Posted By TDLFAN This is no different than any other job interview... but kids who appear to be clean cut, enthusiastic about public contact work with good personality, and demostrate genuine interest in Disney will probably be the most qualified to be offered a position.
Originally Posted By imadisneygal Hello Hidden Troop, All of the above is definitely true. In addition, you should have a good answer to "who is your favorite character and why?" or "what is your favorite attraction and why?" Even if your answer is not complicated, "Mickey Mouse is my favorite because he makes children and adults all over the world smile," you should have an answer. I can't TELL you how many prospective CM's have blown this question with an answer like, "Anastasia - that was a Disney movie, right?!" or "I really like Goliath at Magic Mountain because I'm really into big roller coasters." The answers are honest, but not what someone in casting will be looking for! Other than that, the interviews will likely be group interviews and it's important to show how you fit in with others and not just dominate the interview. Listen to the other prospective CM's when they're talking and use positive body language or a verbal answer to respond. The CM from casting will be looking at your overall interaction with others as well. Of course, if the other prospective CM's just sit there like bumps on a log then by all means, step in and say something. Also, feel free to indicate a preference for department (attractions, restaurants, merch, resorts, etc.). However, I would make it clear that your main goal is to get experience as a WDW CM and since every role is equally important to the overall show you'd be happy to be placed in any department. Be enthusiastic, be genuine, be open to new things, and most of all - be yourself! Good luck to you!
Originally Posted By TDLFAN >>"who is your favorite character and why?"<< "TDLFAN because he is deliciously nasty and 100% correct in every way" is NOT an acceptable answer.
Originally Posted By imadisneygal ^^^That's a good one. Probably not the right answer, but you might get a date out of it!
Originally Posted By TDLFAN I got me a husband of 7 yrs now, so I probably am not that bad... But nasty?
Originally Posted By TDLFAN ..You are welcome dear. BTW.. if you now anyone trying to get hired at WDW thru the college program, tell them, theyhave to pass TDLFAN's rigorous approuval process to be a bonafide CM.. So they better make me proud when I go on my quality control walks.
Originally Posted By Hidden Troop Hey guys! I just have two more quick questions. Should i wear a suite and tie? And my hair is kinda long, like california surfer long (down to the bottom of my ears). Should i cut it really short, or leave it? Thanks you so much!
Originally Posted By bloona Good luck with the interview, Id say yes to a suit and what about tying your hair back, if you dont really want it cutting? <<<"TDLFAN because he is deliciously nasty and 100% correct in every way">>>> MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMmmmmm, biting my tongue now....lol
Originally Posted By imadisneygal I am the opposite of Bloona on these things. Here's my take on the suit and tie thing - you would also be perfectly fine with a button down shirt and nice slacks. In my time hiring I only had one or two prospective CM's actually dress up that much, and to tell you the truth it's not necessary. Dress nicely, neatly, and professionally. Even the managers at the Parks aren't required to wear ties so it's totally up to you. I guess my point is - if you have a suit and tie that you feel very comfortable in then by all means, wear it. If you're more comfortable in a button down and slacks, then wear that. Your true self will come across better when you're wearing an outfit you feel comfortable in. As for the hair, this is the bigger one for me. I'd recommend cuttin git. Hair will grow back and making the move to cut it will show that you're ready to play your role in the show. I guess it depends on how attached you are to the hair! They could always hire you contingent upon your meeting the appearance guidelines. My opinion on the appearance thing is that you already know the guidelines - why not meet them coming into the interview? That way, there's no question as to your willingness to follow the guidelines. It also shows that you've done your research and understand the expectations. Of course this is all just my opinion, but it's an educated one as someone who actually made hiring decisions at the Disneyland Resort. Good luck!!!
Originally Posted By imadisneygal P.S. You don't have to cut your hair REALLY short at all, either. The guidelines are above the ear and above the collar. The top can be sort of long as long as it's not in your eyes. It sounds like that would be a moderate change from what you have now. No need for a "high and tight." It's Disney, not the military! The appearance guidelines are important but they're not all that difficult to meet if you're willing to do it.
Originally Posted By BlazesOfFire Just treat it as you would another job interview. Go looking and acting like you are truly interested!
Originally Posted By jkayjs I agree with much of what has been posted. My daughter went thru this very interview a few years ago. As a pc of advice a suit may make you really stick out as I doubt there will be many. This could be a good thing but it also my make you feel uncomfortable and defeat its purpose. I'm in the nice slacks and oxford shirt camp. Wear shoes that are clean and don't show excessive wear. I agree you need to cut your hair and show your natural color, I like TD's term conservative this includes facial hair clean shaven is probibly best. Make sure your nails are short and clean. I believe the overall term is be "well groomed". Be sincere and remember to smile after all WDW is the "happiest place on earth". If you really want to make a career with Disney make sure you talk that way. Many if not most CP kids do this because it will be fun and look great on a resume later on. If you have a future with Disney at heart make sure they know this ie "I see this as a first step to learn and grow into a long term relationship with the Disney corporation and an invaluable opportunity to learn from the best at what they do". WDW offers their CP kids many opportunities to take classes(some of which are manditory) and participate in team building activities and some community projects. Showing interest in these types of activities if you are may help. Best of luck and let us know how it goes. My daughter found it to be one of the best experiences in her life which BTW developed into a career at WDW.
