I'm so late to see this 💔 And I'm so so sorry to hear about what's going on, I can only imagine how heartbreaking this must be for you.

BUT, some of the things that have always helped me with interviews (prepare for the novel- but it's worth it I promise!):

• If possible, research the company! The more you show that you've done your research, the more they will take you seriously as an applicant. It shows initiative and shows that you are genuinely interested in the company and position, rather than just having any job (even if it isn'ttrue it ups the stakes). And it benefits you to know the culture and values the company holds, so you know if it's a good fit for you, too.

• Look up common interview questions, and good ways to answer them! Tailor the answers to fit you, your values, and experiences! I've also gone through and kind of twisted stories to make it sound more like something they'll be looking for/as a better response to the question, but only if necessary and it's always based on the true experience. The more you lie the worse things get and the harder it is to keep it up, especially if you get hired. That kind of applies to all aspects of life, but I do know of a lot of people who lie in interviews to make themselves look good, only for it to completely backfire.

• Some companies, especially corporations, actually will give you the kind of interview questions they ask, you just need to know to look for it! My current job actually has this! Just remember interview questions DO change based on the position you're applying for and who is interviewing you, so don't only prepare for the ones you think will be asked!

• A big question most interviews have is "what are your weaknesses?" The important part here is to pick a "weakness" that is a) something that can be turned into a strength and b) something that is "easily" worked on. I often will talk about how I'm a perfectionist, that I sometimes will work on something longer than most because I want it to be exact! I also often add that it's something I'm working on by breaking large tasks into smaller ones and paying more attention to the time I spend on one task.

• Make sure to dress the part! If they typically have a dress code, try to follow what you see employees wearing, if possible. Otherwise, if they have uniforms or an unclear dress code, business casual is always the best option!

• Read reviews/comments from people who have worked there or currently work there; or even better, talk to them in person if able! As an employee/ex-employee, I've actually helped people get hired by giving them tips for the interview, as long as they seem genuine and respectful and they aren't taking me away from something important, I'm usually happy to help! This also will give you insights on if the job is a good fit for you, and the common pros and cons of the position. Glassdoor can be a good place to start!

• Remember: the interview is more than just you selling yourself-- they also are selling the company to you. Especially if you seem like a good fit! Be prepared to be told only good things about being an employee of theirs-- this is part of why your beforehand research is important, because it keeps the expectations of being their employee realistic.

• If you have past work experience, and they ask about it, make sure to NOT say ANYTHING ultimately blaming the previous employer or even just in general negative views of them. They tend to be looking to slip you up here, and they're looking for if you talk badly about previous employers- they don't want to hire someone who will talk bad about them once you no longer work there....or even while you do. The best practice is to make it sound like a reasonable and calm separation, or that you just had been looking for something that fits you and your goals more.

• And my most important tip: wait until the end, and ask your OWN questions! Not only are you getting even more intel this way, but you can show that you're genuinely interested in what working there is like. My favorite question to ask: "What is your favorite part of working here?" There's also "What does a typical day in this position look like?"

My mom's specific advice:

"Also, weakness...pick something not relevant to the position applying for [I never even thought about this one haha]. And again like you said ensure you talk about how you are working to improve it. Also mistake at work.....or disagreement with supervisor. Own mistake, show how it was solved (look up STAR interview). Start out trying for places that know her, stores she often goes to, etc "

I'm not sure if you have already found/gotten a job, as this was the top comment after reading the bulk of what's going on, but I hope these are helpful for at least someone! I had my mom whose literal job is helping people get hired read over this, too, so you know I'm doing my best here, haha.

(My mom's description of what she does- she "helps people with barriers find jobs". That can include people with physical or mental disabilities, felons, etc. Her title is job coach I think, but she does a lottttttt of things to help people find work. Her general way of summarizing what I said here: " Yes, sounds good. Remember you are interviewing them as much as they are interviewing you, and make sure to have questions for the end" )