(Pssst…We’ve Gotcha Covered!)
Here’s some professional interview and job advice for teenagers:
If there’s anything 2018 has taught our generation; it’s this: teenagers can achieve anything and shouldn’t be underestimated. With that being said, as you transition from one grade to another, or prepare for college, chances are, you’ll be looking for ways to make some extra cash. Time to hit the pavement and begin job hunting.
Punctuality is key
Be early! If your interview is at 10:00 a.m., show up at 9:50. No one likes to be kept waiting. Not sure where the place is? Check Google-maps! Do a test-run the day before the interview (if you drive) so you know exactly how to drive there; or confirm a family member can drive you to the location so you’re not begging friends for a ride, day-of. If the interview is in a city, know which subway or bus to take theme, and leave yourself EXTRA time to arrive because you never know when the train will be delayed.
Basically, first impressions are important, and tardiness is not only unprofessional—it’s rude. This adult is taking the time to meet with you. Show some respect and be punctual. Also: Be sure you get a good night’s sleep the night before the big day; leave your interview outfit out so you’re not scrambling for it in the morning (iron it the night before), and give yourself pep-talks.
But what if…
…there’s an emergency and I cannot make the interview, day-of?
Here’s what you do: Immediately send off an email (or text) and keep it short, sweet, and honest. Proofread for spelling and grammar.
Example: Hi Sabrina: I unfortunately woke up ill today and cannot make our scheduled appointment at 12 noon. I’m still quite interested in the Party Assistant position at Pixie’s Plastercraft, and hope we can reschedule for early next week? Thank you for understanding.
Best, Aimee 555-123-4567
**Gergana: End the letter here***
Or, better yet, call the person, apologize, stress that you really are interested in the job, and maturely ask to reschedule the interview. Hey, things happen! We’ve all been there—they’ll understand. (And if they don’t, you don’t want to work there anyway!)
Eat Breakfast
You don’t want to go into an interview starving with your belly growling. You also don’t want to be so full you have a bellyache and feel bloated, heavy, and achy. Eat something to hold you over that isn’t too heavy, such as a banana and a bowl of Special K or some fruit, yogurt, and a plain croissant—about 30 minutes before interview time. Also, before the interview, check your teeth in the mirror (to make sure there’s no chunk of broccoli stuck to your front tooth!), empty your bladder, wash your hands and make sure you don’t have toilet paper stuck to your shoe or something. If they offer you water or tea at the interview, you don’t have to take it, but it’s perfectly OK to accept it.
Dress the part
Well, teenager, it’s time to dress up, even if you wear sweatpants and Uggs every day. “Keep your interview outfit casual, but not too casual,” advises SnagAJob.com. “Showing up in jeans and a T-shirt may be comfy, but doesn't give the best impression, even if that’s what you’d be wearing on the job. Khakis and a nice collared shirt, or a tailored top and (not mini) skirt are always a good choice. If you’re applying for a retail clothing store, avoid wearing clothing with a competitor’s logo.”
Stay away from jeans, flip flops, etc. If it’s an interview for a lifeguarding position at a community pool, or a small boutique, don’t show up in just a bathing suit or short sundress—go for a casual skirt or pants (may want to avoid leggings unless they’re made of high quality fabric and your bum is covered), comfy shoes, and a nice shirt. If it’s a summer interview, sandals may be OK but make sure your feet/toenails are clean and neat. Check H&M, Gap, Macy’s, and Forever 21 for laid-back but professional attire and shop for interview clothes with an adult who works full-time, not a friend. (A working adult can probably give you better advice on how to dress than a fellow teenage friend.) Make sure you have the right bra for your top. Once you get the job, abide by the dress code, if there is one.
Do your job homework
I know what you’re thinking: “Study? No, thanks. I do enough of that in school.” Well, in life, you’re a perpetual student, always learning about your surroundings, and yourself. You can’t walk into an interview completely clueless about the business/company. Go to the company’s Web site and read up on the business. If you’re interviewing for a cashier position at a big department store, for example, the interviewer will be impressed if you know the company recently expanded its shoe department or every employee wears pink the first day of October in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Ask the interviewer some questions as well—it shows you’re interested in the job and they’ll like that. Try to shy away from asking flat out, immediately: “What does the job pay? Do I get discounts?” Keep your first questions very basic, such as, “Approximately how many days do new employees train on the register?” or, “How many parties does Pixie’s Plastercraft usually host on weekends?”
Practice interviewing
Play the part. Engage in a mock interview with a parent, teacher, or even the careers office at your high school or college. (Many schools do have a guidance counselor or a career coach on-site who will be happy to “mock interview” you and provide you with tips.) “Make sure you know who you are and what skill set you possess. And always be yourself--you want them to hire the real you, not a fake version of you,” says SangAJob. One question you should practice answering is, “Why should we hire you?” or “Tell me about yourself.” Obviously, since you’re young and this is your first or second job, you can’t brag about your lengthy career experience. But if posed these questions in your interview, say something like:
- “I’m a hard worker, a good listener, and work well with others.”
- “I’m very responsible. I babysit for many kids in the area, which has taught me about leadership and patience.”
- “I’m still in high school, but I’m an honors student, plan to attend college, and am always eager to learn new things.”
Be aware of your body language
When you’re nervous, do you twirl your hair? Jiggle your foot? Bite your nails? You’re going to drive the interviewer crazy if you do any of those things, sorry to be blunt. Again: Practice interviewing and have someone give you honest feedback about your body language in a mock session. Lick your lips often? Before walking into the interview, apply Chapstick. Bite your nails? Splurge on a manicure so your nails look too spiffy to gnaw on. Twirl your hair? Pull it back into a loose, low ponytail if your hair is long. Do not chew gum at the interview, shut off your cell phone, do NOT answer it in the middle of the interview, and pay close attention to names when interviewing. And it goes without saying, do not cuss or badmouth the company. Try to remember everyone's names! If you’re meeting with 'Felicia' repeat her name at least once: It shows you listened, and you remembered, which they’ll find flattering. (Saying “It was nice meeting you, Felicia. Thanks for your time,” at the conclusion of the interview is great. Smile!)
Make eye contact with the interviewer, smile wide, try not to interrupt them, and greet them with a nice, tight, confident handshake. (You can practice that as well.) Interviewing, at any age, can be daunting, so you may need to “fake it till ya make it,” by looking as calm and confident as possible—even if your heart is pounding on the inside.
If you’re fortunate enough to nab your first job this summer, apply the skills you learn at this job into your future jobs and eventual career. You’ve GOT this. Be confident. Lots of luck to you!