Interview Tips for Teens: How to Be First Job Ready
For teenagers, first jobs are a rite of passage. They’re also invaluable early work experience.
Besides earning your own money, having a summertime or after-school job can help you gain real-world experiences and develop job readiness skills. Communication, working in teams, problem-solving and time management are all transferable skills that can be learned in first jobs.
But to reach this milestone, you’ll have to cross one that can be a little intimidating: preparing for a job interview. You’ve updated your resume and started your job search when you finally arrive at that long-awaited moment: meeting with your potential employer.
A job interview is your chance to showcase what makes you stand out from other candidates. Taking time to prepare will help you calm any nerves, stay on topic and leave a great impression — all critical to getting a job offer.
Boys & Girls Club teens learn how to prepare for jobs through our life and workforce readiness programming. Boys & Girls Club of Central Ohio teens recently put their skills to the test through a “Rock the Mock Interview” event with Jimmy John’s Foundation, helping them prepare for first jobs and internships. Read on for tips on getting ready for the interview process, with some firsthand guidance from Club teens.
“Practicing doing a mock version is a great way to help prepare for future interviews, so that when it comes down to the real thing you know exactly what to say.”
– Randy R.
Preparing for an Interview
As the big day approaches, here are some things to remember:
- Know your story. What makes you you? Think about how your skills and passions align with the job you want. Be prepared to share why your background, strengths and motivation make you a strong fit for the company.
- Research the job. Use Google or LinkedIn to learn more about the company and the person you’re meeting with. As much as possible, come prepared knowing their goals and focus areas. Be sure to go back and reread the job description you applied for. Have a list of questions ready to ask the hiring manager or interviewer.
- Practice. As our Club teens recommend, practice is important. Use a list of common interview questions (we share some ideas below!) and think about your responses. Practice answering them with a friend, family member or mentor, or even to yourself in the mirror. Always ensure you answered the question fully without rambling off-topic.
Common First Job Interview Questions
- Tell me about yourself.
- Why are you interested in this role?
- What are your greatest strengths/weaknesses?
- What are your hobbies outside school and/or work?
- Do you prefer working by yourself or on a team?
- What achievement are you most proud of?
- Where do you see yourself in five years?
“I learned that dressing properly for an interview and having some confidence helps to go a long way!”
– Harlie D.
On Interview Day
It’s here! Now is the time to put all that practice into action. As you get ready, keep these tips in mind:
- Dress appropriately. This is your first impression, and how you dress can show your interviewer how important the job is to you. As such, you’re better to aim for professional than err on the side of too casual. Collared shirts, blouses, dress slacks, skirts, dresses, blazers, suits and cardigans are all good choices.
- Arrive early. Arriving on time shows your interviewer that you are a reliable employee. Do a drive-by of the location the day before and nail down directions using GPS in advance so you know exactly where to go. Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early, factoring in any public transit, traffic or parking.
- Have what you need. Whether it’s copies of your resume or examples of some of your work (writing samples, etc.), be sure to bring what you need. This can also include basics like phone chargers or water bottles that help you feel connected and prepared for what the day brings.
- Silence your phone. Give this opportunity your full attention and silence your phone, keeping it tucked away in a pocket or bag throughout the interview. Put any devices on focus or “do not disturb” mode so you’re not thrown off by notifications.
- Be aware of your body language. Unconscious mannerisms, like fingernail biting, hair pulling or cracking knuckles, can surface when people are nervous. Strive to stay calm by sitting still, maintaining eye contact and focusing on the questions being asked. If you know you tend to do something when you’re nervous, have a plan for ensuring you avoid that during this time.
- Ask your own questions. Asking questions at the end of the interview shows that you’ve taken time to research the company and highlights your interest and dedication. A great question to ask is about the hiring process and what to expect for next steps.
“A mock interview gave me an opportunity to practice dressing up and interviewing. I learned to just keep going even when you are nervous because your interviewer is just trying to get to know you. Being authentic is important because you want the position to be a good fit for them and for yourself too.”
– TeAndre W.
After the Interview
After the interview is done, it’s a good idea to follow up and apply what you’ve learned for next time:
- Send a thank-you note. Thank your interviewer via email within 24 hours. A hand-written note is also a great way to highlight your follow-through and how much you care about the job. Express your gratitude for your interviewer’s time and re-emphasize your interest in the position.
- Offer references. Have a few contact names and information on hand who can share your qualifications for the role. Let them know they might be hearing from your potential employer so they’re ready to support you.
- Learn from your experience. The best interview practice is to interview! Ask for feedback and accept any feedback with grace, incorporating it into your interview prep for next time.
Boys & Girls Clubs offer programs and resources that help teens explore their interests and passions, develop essential employability skills and gain real-world experience through internships, service learning and first jobs.
We know it’s hard to dream something you haven’t seen, which is why career exploration is key for young people to unlock potential career paths. Following their mock interview day with the Jimmy Johns Foundation, Central Ohio Club teens visited a local Jimmy John’s restaurant to understand the franchise restaurant industry. They took a kitchen tour and heard from staff, as well as peeked into the daily operations to better understand what it takes to work at, own and lead a restaurant.
Learn more about the Workforce Readiness programs that Boys & Girls Clubs provide and how you can help prepare today’s teens for lifelong success.
