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13 interview tips for teens

November 6, 2025

To celebrate National Career Development Month, we’ve put together 13 practical interview tips to help the teen in your life feel confident and prepared.

Before the interview

1. Research the company

To celebrate National Career Development Month, we’ve put together 13 practical interview tips to help the teen in your life feel confident and prepared.

2. Know your resume (even if it’s short)

Be ready to talk about anything you’ve listed on your resume or application. Whether it’s volunteer work, school projects, extracurriculars, or part-time jobs, think about what you learned and how it applies to the role. If you don’t have a formal resume yet, write down a few key experiences and accomplishments to reference during the interview.

3. Practice common interview questions

Get comfortable answering questions like:

  • “Tell me about yourself.”
  • “Why do you want to work here?”
  • “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”

Practice with a friend, family member, or even in front of a mirror to build confidence.

4. Prepare questions to ask

Asking thoughtful questions shows you’re engaged and curious. Consider asking:

  • “What does a typical day look like in this role?”
  • “What do you enjoy most about working here?”
  • “What challenges might I face in this position?”

Remember, interviews are a two-way street; you’re evaluating them too!

5. Dress for success

Choose attire that matches the company’s culture. When in doubt, go slightly more formal. Clean, neat, and professional always wins.

6. Practice, practice, practice

The more you rehearse, the more confident you’ll feel. Try mock interviews with a teacher, counselor, or trusted adult to get feedback and refine your approach.

During the interview

7. Be punctual

Arrive 10–15 minutes early. It shows respect for the interviewer’s time and helps you settle in before the conversation begins.

8. Mind your body language

Non-verbal cues matter. Sit up straight, make eye contact, smile, and offer a firm handshake. These small gestures help convey confidence and respect.

9. Tell stories, not just facts

Use real-life examples to highlight your skills. For instance, instead of saying “I’m a team player,” describe a time you worked with classmates to complete a group project successfully.

10. Stay positive and honest

It’s okay to be nervous. Stay calm, be yourself, and if you don’t know an answer, be honest and express your willingness to learn.

11. Prepare for behavioral questions

Use the STAR method to answer questions about past experiences:

  • Situation: What was the context?
  • Task: What was your responsibility?
  • Action: What did you do?
  • Result: What was the outcome?

After the interview

12. Follow up

Send a thank-you email or note within 24 hours. Express appreciation and reiterate your interest. It’s a simple gesture that leaves a lasting impression.

13. Learn from rejections

Didn’t get the job? That’s okay! Ask for feedback and use it to grow. Try saying:

“Thank you for the opportunity. I’d love to know how I can improve for future interviews.”

Bonus tip: Use career tools to plan ahead

As you explore career options, use tools like Money Path to see how different paths can impact your long-term financial well-being. It’s a smart way to make informed decisions about your future.

Final thought:

Interviews aren’t just about proving you’re qualified; they’re about showing who you are and how you’ll contribute. With preparation and positivity, you’ll make a strong impression. Good luck!