I received an
invite to an Apple Hiring Event this morning, and have RSVP'd for August 31st.
Anybody mind throwing some experiences out there so I have some idea what to expect?
Be yourself, don't kiss butt, and don't try and out-nerd everyone there by espousing about your mythical iPod collection. I worked for Apple for a bit, and the people at my hiring event that acted like they knew everything about Apple - from repairs to history - did not get selected.
They're looking for open, engaging, approachable people. All the tech stuff is taught in training, it matters a lot less than people seem to think. They care about your personality more than anything else - I cannot stress this enough. If they had to choose between someone slightly awkward, with so-so social skills who knew the history of Apple and could fix a MacBook Air with their eyes closed versus someone outgoing and sincere who couldn't tell you the 3 MacBook Pro screen sizes - they would pick the outgoing candidate every single time.
I was sure I wouldn't be called back because I didn't spend the entire time kissing Apple's butt, talking about how I've been repairing Macs since kindergarten, or talking about how Steve Jobs is my idol. Instead I answered their questions honestly, and that seemed to be valued quite a bit, as I made it all the way to Apple employee.
My event was broken into brief introductions around the room, a video on Apple culture/history, questions, and then a roleplaying exercise followed by a final round of questions. Working well with your group is a great way to stand out - i.e., coming up with a good, engaging skit. Most of the skits reeked.
Either way, relax, be yourself, and good luck.