Unlocking job interview skills for teens

Do you remember interviewing as a teen?

I remember applying for a job at a video rental store. (for those younger readers go ask your parents! LOL!) The question on the form said are you bondable? I wasn't sure what the question meant so I checked No. During the interview the manager asked me why I wasn't bondable and I struggled to produce an answer. He put me out of my misery and told me that most people were bondable and that I should never answer a question on a form without fully understanding the question.

Another interviewer asked me why I wanted this job. I stated that I was merely looking for a job to earn money, and while that may have been true, it was not a great answer to the question. The result? I didn't get the job.

The fact is that interviews for jobs are stressful, and for the teen looking to land a job it can be even tougher. With little work experience, and being at an awkward age, it creates a one-two punch that can create angst and struggle. Yes, often a teen is applying for an entry level position, but as they say a foot in the door is often the hardest position to earn.

Here are a few tips for teens looking to land their first job!

1. Convert life experience for job experience As it is your first job, you are unlikely to have work experience to point to when answering questions. Before the interview think of life experiences you have had and use those in place of job experience. For example, that time you volunteered at the food bank may give you an example of working with a team. Being on a sports team, might give you the perfect chance to talk about being a leader. Even school can provide you with examples of working to a deadline, working under pressure and even interpersonal skills. Reflect on those school days and the extracurricular activities and you will most likely find something to highlight in the interview.
2. Answer questions with detail I am amazed when a teen will merely answer the question and not expand on their answer. An interviewer is looking to gain a full understanding of you and your capabilities. If you answer the questions with a few words, or just in one sentence the interviewer is unlikely to make a hiring decision. Even if the question is a "what's your favourite movie?" Give them the title and a few reasons why you enjoy the movie so much. Merely stating "Avengers Endgame" will leave the interviewer wanting to know more.
3. Tell stories this might be a more advanced skill and some may not understand the power of it. As humans, we love stories, take a look at our entertainment options and see what I mean. Learn how to effectively tell a story and bring your answers to life. Share the set up, the conflict and the resolution. An example:

I found myself at the clothing store and it was busy with many shopping for great deals. The employees looked swamped and overwhelmed. I approached one and asked for my on-hold item. The clerk said that they couldn't help me and that I should go to the front cash desk. I was made to feel like I was an inconvenience. I never set foot in that store again.

By making the question a story, you have connected with the interviewer and are more likely to have the interview go well!

If you would like to provide your teen with some life skills and have them better prepared for interviews and interpersonal skills in general, consider signing them up to Enhancing Interpersonal Communication – e3 Toronto. It is a worthy investment in their future and their success in the workplace!