Interview Tips for Young Adults

 

Know Your Skills and Experience

Before the interview, write down your skills and experience and how they align with the job description. List the top strengths, skills, and achievements you want to highlight during your interview. Consider asking your friends, family, and teachers for their thoughts on your list. This process can help you be more self-aware and give you the confidence to speak about your capabilities during the interview.

Research the Job and Company

Review the job description and responsibilities before the interview to determine what the interviewer might ask you and what questions you want to ask the interviewer. Visit the company's website and social media accounts to understand the company's goals, history, achievements, process, and product. This research will make you sound prepared and provide you with topics to discuss during the interview.  Referring to your notes during the interview lets the interviewer know you are interested in working with them since you took the time to understand who they are.

Know Your Qualifications

When applying for a job, ensure your strengths and qualifications align with the job description. Understanding the qualifications can help you to better explain them honestly and confidently during the interview. Consider your everyday successes and how they show your relevant qualifications, especially when you have less work experience. For example, if the interviewer is looking for someone who is a strong multi-tasker, provide them with an example of how you handle both school and extra-curricular activities successfully or how you help a younger sibling or foster youth. When you mention your qualifications to the interviewer, it helps them visualize what abilities you'd bring to the role.

Memorize Your Resume

If you have previous work experience, know the specifics about your roles and responsibilities. You want to sound confident about your experiences without referring to your printed resume. Note your job titles, the companies where you worked, when you worked for them, and your responsibilities. Highlight the relevant skills and knowledge you gained from each role.  If you don't have work experience, highlight any internships, school activities, or personal experiences that will relate to the role you are looking for.

Prepare Common Interview Questions and Answers

The hiring manager or supervisor will ask you general and job-specific questions during the interview. Research online to help you understand the most common interview questions they might ask. Think about your answer to each question beforehand to help you answer them with greater ease on the day of the interview.

Conduct Practice Interviews

Ask your friends or a trusted adult to help you conduct mock interviews and help you prepare. Have them ask you common and job-specific interview questions. Rehearsing how to answer each question can help you feel more prepared and confident during the interview. Practice interviews can also help you practice your interview etiquette. You must showcase your maturity and professionalism during the interview to let the interviewer know you are ready for professional employment. Practice giving a firm handshake, maintaining eye contact, and thanking the interviewer.

Prepare Relevant Materials

Before your interview, print a few copies of your resume, cover letter, portfolio (if applicable), and a list of references if the interviewer asks for them. Though you may have submitted your application electronically, the hiring manager may not have them on hand during the interview.  Your copies give them something to refer to and can help guide the interview overall. Be sure to bring multiple copies in case your interview is with a group of people. It may also be beneficial to bring a notepad and pen to take notes throughout the interview to help you remember key points once the interview is over.

Know What to Ask

At the end of the interview, they will ask if you have any questions. Use this opportunity to ask them questions related to the role and company. When researching the company beforehand, note your questions from the job description and company website. Asking questions is a great way to reinforce your interest in the role and help you know the next steps. Here are some questions to consider asking.

• What is the work environment like?
• What is your favorite part about working here?
• What are the next steps in the interview process?
• Do you need additional materials from me to make your hiring decision?

Decide What to Wear

When you interview for a position, it's important to dress for the role. Consider your wardrobe in advance and find a professional outfit that's conducive to current company employees' attire. Make sure your outfit is polished and wrinkle-free, as that can represent how important the job is to you. If you're unsure what to wear, consider wearing a nice, plain, collared shirt and slacks. Or, if it is an office with a business casual dress code, try adding a blazer.

Know How You Will Arrive

Before your interview, make sure you have reliable transportation to the interview site. If you're not driving yourself, make sure to find a ride that can get you there on time. If you are using public transportation, know your route ahead of time and give extra time for delays. Get directions to the interview site, be mindful of traffic, and understand the parking situation, or bus stop location before arriving. Plan to arrive 15 minutes early as this shows the interviewer you have strong time management skills and respect their time.

Write a Thank You Email

It is always a good idea to email a thank you message within 24 hours of the interview. The message should be simple, spell-checked, and repeat the position you are applying for and your interest in it.