12 Interview Tips for Teens
To celebrate National Career Development Month, we’ve put together 12 interview tips you can pass along to that special teen in your life!
1. Research the company
Before the interview, research the company to understand its mission, values, products or services, and recent news. This knowledge will show your interest and enthusiasm.
2. Practice common questions
Practice answering common interview questions such as “Tell me about yourself,” “Why do you want to work here?” and “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” You can practice with a friend or family member.
3. Prepare questions to ask
Think of thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer. This demonstrates your interest in the position and company. Examples include asking about the company culture, team dynamics, or opportunities for growth. Remember you’re interviewing them too! It’s completely appropriate to ask what challenges the role brings and what they like about working there to see if it’s a good fit for you.
4. Dress appropriately
Choose appropriate attire based on the company’s dress code. It’s generally better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed for an interview.
5. Be aware of body language
Maintain good posture and make eye contact with the interviewer. A firm handshake and a friendly smile go a long way in making a positive impression.
6. Tell stories
Instead of just listing your accomplishments, use specific examples or stories to illustrate your skills and experiences. For example, if asked about teamwork, describe a project where you collaborated effectively with others.
7. Stay positive
Maintain a positive attitude throughout the interview. Even if you’re nervous, try to stay calm and composed. If you don’t know the answer to a question, it’s okay to admit it and express your willingness to learn.
9. Follow-up
After the interview, send a thank-you email or note to the interviewer expressing your gratitude for the opportunity and reiterating your interest in the position. This is a chance to make a final positive impression.
10. Learn from rejections
If you don’t get the job, don’t be discouraged. Ask for feedback if possible and use the experience as a learning opportunity for future interviews. For example, you can say, “Can you tell me what I can do to become a stronger candidate in the future?”
11. Prepare for behavioral questions
Behavioral questions often ask how you’ve handled specific situations in the past. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
12. Practice, practice, practice
The more you practice, the more confident you’ll become. Consider doing mock interviews with a career counselor, teacher, or family member to get constructive feedback.
Remember that interviews are not just about proving your qualifications; they’re also about showing your personality and fit for the company culture. Being well-prepared and confident will help you make a strong impression and increase your chances of success. To help you make informed decisions as you explore career options, be sure to plug them into the Money Path app so you can see how each career path will impact your long-term financial well-being. Good luck!
