Job Interview Tips for Teens

As the summer approaches and teens start looking for summer jobs and internships, they’ll be faced with a new challenge: how do you prepare for your first job interview so you’ll make a good first impression with your prospective boss.

Carole Jabbawy, Ed.D. is the founder of Internship Connection, a school-to-career program for high school and college students. Dr. Jabbawy has established summer internships for students from the Westchester area for many years and offers the following tips:

• Learn about the company or professional office where you will be interviewing, through an internet search and/or the company website. Jot down a few questions to ask during the interview.
• Role play with a parent or friend using the following questions that are often asked in interviews: Tell me about yourself. How would your teachers describe you? Why do you want to work here? What would you say are your greatest strengths and weaknesses? Can you give me an example of a time you were a team player? Tell me about a time you had a problem and how you solved it. Do you have any questions?
• Do a dry run going to the office a few days before the interview, using the same type of transportation that you will use for your appointment. This way, you will be comfortable and able to judge your timing.
• Dress professionally in “business casual.” For boys: pants (not jeans), a button down shirt and shoes. For girls: slacks or a skirt or dress of modest length.
• Bring along the following information: company name, address, phone number, name of person interviewing you, and traveling directions. Do not try to memorize.
• Plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early and then enter the building a few minutes before the interview time.
• Follow proper etiquette. Make sure your cell phone is turned off. Never answer a call during an interview. Do not eat, smoke or chew gum. Make sure your hair isn’t falling in your face.
• Greet your interviewer with a smile, eye contact and a firm handshake. Answer questions directly. Do not ramble on. Show interest and enthusiasm.
• Refer to one or two things you found interesting on the company’s website. Talk about your interests and how they relate to this company. Be prepared to ask a few questions about the company.
• At the end of the interview, ask for their business card. This is important contact information for the future.
• After the interview, send a thank you email or even better, a handwritten note.

Preparing for an interview will give you confidence as you walk through the door whether you are in high school, college, or beyond.

Dr. Carole Jabbawy is the Founder and Director of Internship Connection www.internshipconnection.com. A former teacher and Professor of Education, she has been establishing internships in Boston and New York City for High School, College and Gap Year students for the last eight years.