Practical job interview tips for teens looking to get hired.
Teen job interviews can be a nail-biting experience.
Don’t worry though! Employers who hire teens aren’t expecting a wealth of work experience and a long track record of career accomplishments.
They also understand this is likely your very first job, nevertheless, proper interview preparation is important for teenage candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview as a teenager?
Key preparation tips include:
Finding the right job
As a teenage job applicant, don’t just research, but study the company. Key details to study before your interview are:
- The vision and core values of the company
- The industry the company belongs to
- What products do they sell? (How does the company generate revenue)
- Who are their competitors?
Solicit external assistance
Having a mentor or a teacher to compile and proofread the resume, ensuring your best qualities are showcased helps alleviate interview anxiety and increases your chances of getting hired.
Job interview tips for teenagers
There are several other ways you can ensure your interviewing experience is positive:
Practice, practice and then practice!
If keeping composure, developing a proper tone of voice or being aware of your body language when speaking, doesn’t come naturally to you, don’t panic! You can develop these soft skills with sufficient practice. Practicing in front of a mirror and with friends is an excellent way for you to gauge your body movements and get feedback.
Always remember to maintain sufficient eye contact to assertively engage the interviewer. Practice maintaining good body posture – placing your hands on your lap, sitting upright with rounded, relaxed shoulders and friendly facial expressions.
Prepare for tough questions
Employers are looking for competent talent. As a result, they may pose tough questions such as:
- Why do you want this job?
- Do you think you can handle the demands of this position?
- How do you deal with adversity?
- Why do you think you’re the best person for this role?
Think of tough questions and have your teacher, mentor or parent guide you towards appropriate responses.
Age is just a number!
Yes, you are inexperienced, but that doesn’t mean you don’t possess the ability to learn, adapt and become a team player. Instead of focusing on what you lack, focus on what you bring to the table. Sell them on your qualities that would make working with you a pleasure.
Dress appropriately
Whether you’re a teenager or middle-aged, interviews require clean and professional attire.
Turn the cell phone off
Escape the stigma that Generation Z are overly dependent on cell phones by turning yours off for the interview.
Be prepared for on the spot interviews
Many smaller businesses may interview you as you submit your application. Therefore, your job interview prep should begin even before handing in the application.
Teen interview questions and sample answers
Below are some common interview questions you’re likely to encounter during your job search.
Why are you looking for a job?
Employers may want to know the rationale behind you seeking employment at their establishment.
Sample answer
Example: “I am looking for a job to gain exposure and experience. I have a passion for technology, so I would love the opportunity to work alongside your technological department and learn more about client server technology, decompressing files, learning management systems and cloud computing atleast on a part-time basis.
What should a 17-year-old bring to a job interview?
As a 17-year-old job applicant, a copy of your resume, original certifications (with copies), recommendation letters, if requested and a list of references are necessary. to accompany you to your job interview.
Why do you want to work for us?
Of the other companies out there in this field why did you choose us? What do you know about this company that makes you want to join the team?
Sample answer
I will be pursuing a finance degree and ACCA to become a chartered accountant. Through working for this company, I hope to gain get some “hands’ on” working experience of what’s it’s like at an accounting firm.
What makes you the best candidate for this job?
Let them know what personal traits and qualities sets you apart from everyone else.
Sample answer
I believe I am the best person for the job because I enjoy interacting with people. I have also taken a few online courses in corporate communication which has helped my interpersonal skills. Lastly, I fit into this communication role given my experience with various volunteer groups and being part of my school’s debate team.
What are some of your biggest accomplishments?
Describe your accomplishments and provide context to what you can achieve.
Sample answer
My biggest success, so far has been receiving a President’s Medal for my contributions within my school’s community leadership program. It did involve extensive team effort and collaborating with various government groups to raise funds to support these initiatives. Despite the challenges involved, it was a worthwhile and rewarding experience.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Do you intend to transition into a full-time career with us or pursue other aspirations?
Sample answer
In five years, I see myself having finished my first degree in Human Resources. I would like to gain as much knowledge and experience in this field as I enjoy working with people. It’s my goal to further my experience in HR and by that time have a permanent position in that field.
What are you learning in school that will help you with this position?
Employers may ask about specific things you’re learning in school that can be applicable to the job.
Sample answer
Currently, I am the editor for our school newsletter which reports on weekly school activity and community events. Being part of the newsletter staff has greatly improved by writing, editing and other communicative skills. Given that we cover a lot of community projects, I have learnt a great deal about public relations, event management and public speaking, all of which I believe, will help me in this role.
Tell me about yourself as a teenager
Your employer wants to know you personally to see if you’d be a good fit for their team.
Sample answer
I would consider myself ambitious, determined and mature. I consider myself a very creative person as I enjoy working my hands and using thoughts and ideas to express myself through art. I would also say, I’m very organised and despite being more on the extroverted side, can function independently as well as on a team.
Do you have any questions about the job?
Compile a list of questions about the job that weren’t covered during the discussion.
Sample answer
Would you mind telling me about any particular training required for this role? I would also like to know if this position can eventually translate into something full-time or permanent?
