12 answers
Noah
Student
Kansas City, Missouri
1
Question
Asked
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What is the best way to go into an interview for a job at the age of 15?
Please give me advice
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12 answers
Karin P.
Lecturer
375
Answers
Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Noah,
At your age I wouldn't expect them to grill you with complex questions. You wouldn't have years of experience to talk about. I would expect rather standard questions.
The best advice is always be prepared, be yourself and answer honestly (but be clever and strategic about it).
You find a collection of typical questions and examples of "good" answers here:
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/interview-questions-for-teens
https://www.thebalancemoney.com/teen-job-interview-questions-and-best-answers-2063882
Good luck!
KP
At your age I wouldn't expect them to grill you with complex questions. You wouldn't have years of experience to talk about. I would expect rather standard questions.
The best advice is always be prepared, be yourself and answer honestly (but be clever and strategic about it).
You find a collection of typical questions and examples of "good" answers here:
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/interview-questions-for-teens
https://www.thebalancemoney.com/teen-job-interview-questions-and-best-answers-2063882
Good luck!
KP
Dr Fisch
Flight Attendant
40
Answers
Denver, Colorado
Updated
Dr’s Answer
The most important thing is to BE READY! Don't just dive in hoping to improvise. If you're new to job interviews, use resources like YouTube to find tips and advice. There are plenty of videos there that guide you on what to do and what to avoid. Remember, these YouTubers are sharing their perspectives. If several of them agree on a point, it's likely worth considering. You don't have to follow their advice to the letter, just like with the comments here, take what resonates with you and makes sense.
Being ready also means anticipating what might happen. Prepare thoughtful, yet rehearsed answers to questions you think might come up during the interview. Practice with a family member or friend acting as the interviewer to gain some "virtual" experience. ;)
Another crucial thing is to exude confidence. Employers aren't looking for someone they'll have to constantly babysit. You need to portray that you're capable and can handle the job without needing constant assistance. They need to envision you performing the job well. Strive to imprint that image in their minds.
A personal tip that has helped me in interviews is to "just be yourself". It always eased my nerves before an interview, believing in myself and being a person that others would enjoy working with, a great team player and just a good person overall. So, aim to be relaxed and let them see the real, honest you. If you appear genuine and not fake, they're more likely to support you. Maintaining good eye contact also helps to establish a stronger connection between people.
A few more tips... Dress neatly and arrive a bit early. Be courteous. Avoid seeming desperate. Try to turn any apparent disadvantages into advantages. For instance, since you mentioned you're 15, it would be beneficial if you could turn this into a strength rather than a weakness. For example, you can mention you're "precocious" (advanced for your age) and that you haven't picked up any bad habits from previous employers, nothing that you would need to "unlearn". In other words, to identify potential drawbacks the interviewer might see and then spin them into positives. You don't want to give them any reason to say no.
Being ready also means anticipating what might happen. Prepare thoughtful, yet rehearsed answers to questions you think might come up during the interview. Practice with a family member or friend acting as the interviewer to gain some "virtual" experience. ;)
Another crucial thing is to exude confidence. Employers aren't looking for someone they'll have to constantly babysit. You need to portray that you're capable and can handle the job without needing constant assistance. They need to envision you performing the job well. Strive to imprint that image in their minds.
A personal tip that has helped me in interviews is to "just be yourself". It always eased my nerves before an interview, believing in myself and being a person that others would enjoy working with, a great team player and just a good person overall. So, aim to be relaxed and let them see the real, honest you. If you appear genuine and not fake, they're more likely to support you. Maintaining good eye contact also helps to establish a stronger connection between people.
A few more tips... Dress neatly and arrive a bit early. Be courteous. Avoid seeming desperate. Try to turn any apparent disadvantages into advantages. For instance, since you mentioned you're 15, it would be beneficial if you could turn this into a strength rather than a weakness. For example, you can mention you're "precocious" (advanced for your age) and that you haven't picked up any bad habits from previous employers, nothing that you would need to "unlearn". In other words, to identify potential drawbacks the interviewer might see and then spin them into positives. You don't want to give them any reason to say no.
Marva Levine
Attorney
14
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Marva’s Answer
Since your interview might be over the phone - stand up. Your voice will sound stronger.
And if your interview is over Zoom or other web-based service, approach it as if you were in person: sit up straight, dress appropriately, minimize distractions behind you (quiet place, make your bed if in your bedroom) and look at the camera.
Since at 15 they aren't hiring you for your experience, they are hiring you for your enthusiasm about the job and if they think you will be able to add to their team. Use any opportunity to let them know that you take responsibility seriously - whether on a sports team or a school club, or shoveling snow or babysitting for a neighbor.
Practice with a friend or family member first. Good luck.
And if your interview is over Zoom or other web-based service, approach it as if you were in person: sit up straight, dress appropriately, minimize distractions behind you (quiet place, make your bed if in your bedroom) and look at the camera.
Since at 15 they aren't hiring you for your experience, they are hiring you for your enthusiasm about the job and if they think you will be able to add to their team. Use any opportunity to let them know that you take responsibility seriously - whether on a sports team or a school club, or shoveling snow or babysitting for a neighbor.
Practice with a friend or family member first. Good luck.
Richard Thornton
Aerospace Engineer
20
Answers
Robbinsville, New Jersey
Updated
Richard’s Answer
This is something I found myself asking when I was first applying and was terrified at the thought of saying something wrong. Remember, interviews are just ways for you to get to know each other! They may have to stick to a script (one of the most commonly used is known as STAR - https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/how-to-use-the-star-interview-response-technique), but underneath that formality, they still want to get to know you.
One technique that helped me feel ready, was going through lists upon lists of standard interview questions online and categorizing them. Typically they can be grouped into maybe half a dozen categories that you can prepare answers and supporting examples for. That way, when they ask something specific that you couldn't have directly prepared for, you can fall back on whatever category that type of question fits best into.
And of course, at 15, they are not going to expect you to answer highly technical questions that require years of experience. Go into it with confidence in yourself and be able to point to the most significant achievements you may have or personality traits you feel best represent you. If you did submit a resume in advance, know it inside and out - being able to elaborate on something without hesitation is the quickest way of showing you actually know and did what you said.
One technique that helped me feel ready, was going through lists upon lists of standard interview questions online and categorizing them. Typically they can be grouped into maybe half a dozen categories that you can prepare answers and supporting examples for. That way, when they ask something specific that you couldn't have directly prepared for, you can fall back on whatever category that type of question fits best into.
And of course, at 15, they are not going to expect you to answer highly technical questions that require years of experience. Go into it with confidence in yourself and be able to point to the most significant achievements you may have or personality traits you feel best represent you. If you did submit a resume in advance, know it inside and out - being able to elaborate on something without hesitation is the quickest way of showing you actually know and did what you said.
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
613
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
Look over the job description. For each thing they are asking you to do, be ready to speak to your experience with that thing. Stories are great ways to communicate skills you have.
If there is a skill you don’t have, be honest, but pivot to something you had to learn recently for a project and demonstrate your ability to learn and grow.
Ask good questions. Tell me about the daily activities of the role. What did the person who had the job before me do well? What is something you wish the person before me would have done better? As you get these answers, show how you would do the thing differently or how you can embody the skills that they enjoyed.
If there is a skill you don’t have, be honest, but pivot to something you had to learn recently for a project and demonstrate your ability to learn and grow.
Ask good questions. Tell me about the daily activities of the role. What did the person who had the job before me do well? What is something you wish the person before me would have done better? As you get these answers, show how you would do the thing differently or how you can embody the skills that they enjoyed.
Kim Igleheart
Career Counselor | Police Officer
1750
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Noah,
In most jobs, the job of the employee is to make or save money for his employer. When you understand that, it will help you shape the responses you give in your interview. Here are some things I never thought about when I was your age:
1. Candy store: I thought I was there to "wait on" customers; did not understand how to encourage them to buy the products!
2. Safety: If you get hurt on the job, the employer has to spend time filling out all sorts of paperwork. They may have to pay medical bills. The same if a customer gets hurt. Plus, they might get a lawsuit filed against them, and pay those associated costs. Something as simple as failing to put out the "wet floor" sign when mopping can be disastrous!
3. Attendance/punctuality: If you decide to "call in sick" the employer might be left working with one less employee than ideal for the number of customers anticipated that day. That means the customers don't get waited on as quickly, and some choose to go elsewhere. Some of those will never return to the store.
So, why should they hire you? What are you going to do for them? This needs to come from the heart. Hopefully you will be able to point to your outstanding attendance record in school/sports, your ability to work as part of a team, be it in sports or collaborative projects, etc.
Be careful about being overly "rehearsed." Understand the main concepts you want to get across, and you should do fine! And yes, as was previously mentioned, be yourself! If they don't like "the real you" you don't want to work there anyway. Trust me!
In most jobs, the job of the employee is to make or save money for his employer. When you understand that, it will help you shape the responses you give in your interview. Here are some things I never thought about when I was your age:
1. Candy store: I thought I was there to "wait on" customers; did not understand how to encourage them to buy the products!
2. Safety: If you get hurt on the job, the employer has to spend time filling out all sorts of paperwork. They may have to pay medical bills. The same if a customer gets hurt. Plus, they might get a lawsuit filed against them, and pay those associated costs. Something as simple as failing to put out the "wet floor" sign when mopping can be disastrous!
3. Attendance/punctuality: If you decide to "call in sick" the employer might be left working with one less employee than ideal for the number of customers anticipated that day. That means the customers don't get waited on as quickly, and some choose to go elsewhere. Some of those will never return to the store.
So, why should they hire you? What are you going to do for them? This needs to come from the heart. Hopefully you will be able to point to your outstanding attendance record in school/sports, your ability to work as part of a team, be it in sports or collaborative projects, etc.
Be careful about being overly "rehearsed." Understand the main concepts you want to get across, and you should do fine! And yes, as was previously mentioned, be yourself! If they don't like "the real you" you don't want to work there anyway. Trust me!
Valerie Lenihan
Recruiter
2
Answers
Limerick
Updated
Valerie’s Answer
Hi Noah,
Can I ask what interviews are you preparing for?
Typically, this early in your career, the interviewer will not expect you to have a tonne of work experience to speak of.
However, what I would encourage at this early stage is getting some voluntary experience in an area you are passionate about OR some part-time hours with friends or family or in your local community e.g. car washing, newspaper run, local grocery store.
This will help you gain insights into the 'world of work' and different work environments and help you decide later on what your key interests are.
For an upcoming interview, i would recommend researching the company and the role to better understand the sector you are applying to and what the key skills are.
In addition, go through the job description and make a note of the skills that resonate with you for e.g. team player ( you may have examples from group projects in school or team sports) communication skills ( these can be developed in school and voluntary work in community).
During the interview ( if in person) a firm handshake creates a great first impression as well as dressing formally ( dependant on the work environment)
It is important to come prepared with examples you can reference to any questions asked. For e.g. your interviewer may ask you: Tell me about your experience working with customers? OR tell me about a time you have worked as part of a team?
What they are looking for here is examples from your experience ( school OR work) that you have worked with teams OR demonstrated strong communication OR problem solving skills.
Also, your interviewer will always appreciate you sharing why you are interested in joining their team .
After the interview; it helps to send a courtesy email to thank the interviewer for their time OR thank them leaving the interview.
The best of luck with your job search!
Can I ask what interviews are you preparing for?
Typically, this early in your career, the interviewer will not expect you to have a tonne of work experience to speak of.
However, what I would encourage at this early stage is getting some voluntary experience in an area you are passionate about OR some part-time hours with friends or family or in your local community e.g. car washing, newspaper run, local grocery store.
This will help you gain insights into the 'world of work' and different work environments and help you decide later on what your key interests are.
For an upcoming interview, i would recommend researching the company and the role to better understand the sector you are applying to and what the key skills are.
In addition, go through the job description and make a note of the skills that resonate with you for e.g. team player ( you may have examples from group projects in school or team sports) communication skills ( these can be developed in school and voluntary work in community).
During the interview ( if in person) a firm handshake creates a great first impression as well as dressing formally ( dependant on the work environment)
It is important to come prepared with examples you can reference to any questions asked. For e.g. your interviewer may ask you: Tell me about your experience working with customers? OR tell me about a time you have worked as part of a team?
What they are looking for here is examples from your experience ( school OR work) that you have worked with teams OR demonstrated strong communication OR problem solving skills.
Also, your interviewer will always appreciate you sharing why you are interested in joining their team .
After the interview; it helps to send a courtesy email to thank the interviewer for their time OR thank them leaving the interview.
The best of luck with your job search!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Noah,
Here's your guide to acing a job interview at 15:
1. Dig into the Company: Get to know the company you're applying to. Learn about their offerings, values, and latest updates. This knowledge will demonstrate your keen interest and help you customize your responses during the interview.
2. Decode the Job Description: Familiarize yourself with the job description. Highlight the essential skills and experiences needed, and reflect on how your abilities and past experiences align with these.
3. Rehearse for Common Interview Questions: Practice responses to typical interview questions like "Tell me about yourself," "What are your strengths and weaknesses," and "Why do you want to work here?" This rehearsal will boost your confidence during the interview.
4. Dress to Impress: Despite your age, it's important to dress appropriately for the interview. Opt for tidy, professional attire that shows respect for the opportunity.
5. Display Enthusiasm and Confidence: Show your excitement for the role and faith in your abilities during the interview. Be ready to explain why you're interested in the job and why you'd be a great fit.
6. Question Time: Be ready to ask insightful questions about the company or role at the end of the interview. This shows your eagerness to learn more about the organization.
7. Follow-Up: Post-interview, send a thank-you email to show your appreciation for the opportunity. This small act can leave a lasting positive impression.
By adhering to these steps, you'll be well-prepared for a job interview at 15 and enhance your chances of success.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used:
The Balance Careers: This resource offers expert advice on career development aspects, including job interviews, providing tips on preparation, answering common queries, and standing out as a candidate.
Indeed Career Guide: This guide provides valuable insights into job search strategies, resume writing, and interview preparation. It's a trusted source for individuals seeking guidance in the job market.
Monster Career Advice: This section covers a broad spectrum of topics related to career advancement, including interviewing tips for job seekers of all ages. It offers practical advice on conducting interviews and securing job opportunities.
These sources were referenced to provide you with accurate and reliable information.
Stay blessed!
JC.
Here's your guide to acing a job interview at 15:
1. Dig into the Company: Get to know the company you're applying to. Learn about their offerings, values, and latest updates. This knowledge will demonstrate your keen interest and help you customize your responses during the interview.
2. Decode the Job Description: Familiarize yourself with the job description. Highlight the essential skills and experiences needed, and reflect on how your abilities and past experiences align with these.
3. Rehearse for Common Interview Questions: Practice responses to typical interview questions like "Tell me about yourself," "What are your strengths and weaknesses," and "Why do you want to work here?" This rehearsal will boost your confidence during the interview.
4. Dress to Impress: Despite your age, it's important to dress appropriately for the interview. Opt for tidy, professional attire that shows respect for the opportunity.
5. Display Enthusiasm and Confidence: Show your excitement for the role and faith in your abilities during the interview. Be ready to explain why you're interested in the job and why you'd be a great fit.
6. Question Time: Be ready to ask insightful questions about the company or role at the end of the interview. This shows your eagerness to learn more about the organization.
7. Follow-Up: Post-interview, send a thank-you email to show your appreciation for the opportunity. This small act can leave a lasting positive impression.
By adhering to these steps, you'll be well-prepared for a job interview at 15 and enhance your chances of success.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used:
The Balance Careers: This resource offers expert advice on career development aspects, including job interviews, providing tips on preparation, answering common queries, and standing out as a candidate.
Indeed Career Guide: This guide provides valuable insights into job search strategies, resume writing, and interview preparation. It's a trusted source for individuals seeking guidance in the job market.
Monster Career Advice: This section covers a broad spectrum of topics related to career advancement, including interviewing tips for job seekers of all ages. It offers practical advice on conducting interviews and securing job opportunities.
These sources were referenced to provide you with accurate and reliable information.
Stay blessed!
JC.
Jorge Orozco
1
Answer
Aurora, Illinois
Updated
Jorge’s Answer
Embracing the STAR format is a fantastic starting point. At the age of 15, you may possess more experience than you give yourself credit for. Reflect on the school activities you've participated in, the tasks you've accomplished, or even the responsibilities you shoulder at home and how you manage them effectively. These can serve as excellent examples when responding to interview questions. By preparing thoroughly with a variety of examples, you can boost your confidence and readiness. Prior to the interview, make sure you research the company. You can glean information about the company online, pay a visit to their premises, or even engage current employees in conversation about the organization if possible. Remember to dress smartly and conclude your interview with a heartfelt thank you note. This will surely leave a lasting impression.
Curtis Carpenter
manager
4
Answers
Updated
Curtis’s Answer
Remember, preparation is key. Dress appropriately to make a lasting first impression. Research the company you're interviewing with thoroughly. Always aim to arrive early, as punctuality is a sign of respect and readiness.
Caralee Kennell
Talent Acquisition
1
Answer
Kitchener, Ontario, Canada
Updated
Caralee’s Answer
Going into an interview for a job at the age of 15 can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Here are some tips to help you prepare and make a positive impression:
Research the company: Learn about the company you're interviewing with, including its mission, values, products or services, and any recent news or developments. This will show your interviewer that you're genuinely interested and proactive.
Understand the job requirements: Make sure you understand the responsibilities of the job you're applying for and how your skills and experience align with them. Be prepared to discuss why you're a good fit for the position.
Dress appropriately: Dressing professionally shows that you take the interview seriously. Even if the workplace has a casual dress code, it's still a good idea to dress neatly and presentably.
Practice common interview questions: Review common interview questions and practice your responses beforehand. Be prepared to talk about your strengths, weaknesses, previous experiences (if any), and why you're interested in the job.
Highlight your skills and experiences: Emphasize any relevant skills, experiences, or accomplishments you have, such as volunteer work, extracurricular activities, or academic achievements. Even if you don't have much work experience, you can still showcase transferable skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
Research the company: Learn about the company you're interviewing with, including its mission, values, products or services, and any recent news or developments. This will show your interviewer that you're genuinely interested and proactive.
Understand the job requirements: Make sure you understand the responsibilities of the job you're applying for and how your skills and experience align with them. Be prepared to discuss why you're a good fit for the position.
Dress appropriately: Dressing professionally shows that you take the interview seriously. Even if the workplace has a casual dress code, it's still a good idea to dress neatly and presentably.
Practice common interview questions: Review common interview questions and practice your responses beforehand. Be prepared to talk about your strengths, weaknesses, previous experiences (if any), and why you're interested in the job.
Highlight your skills and experiences: Emphasize any relevant skills, experiences, or accomplishments you have, such as volunteer work, extracurricular activities, or academic achievements. Even if you don't have much work experience, you can still showcase transferable skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
780
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Noah I want first say that it is commendable eagerness to pursue a job interview at the age of 15. This can be supported by key strategies for making a positive impression.
Firstly, it's essential that you conduct an in-depth study of the company, as this shows genuine interest and proactiveness. Despite your young age, dressing professionally is key to showing your respect for the opportunity and to align with the company's dress code. Noah, you should also prepare for common interview questions, with a focus on showcasing your relevant skills, experiences, and personal attributes.
Highlighting transferable skills that you've acquired through your school courses, extracurricular activities, or volunteer work, such as teamwork and communication, can strengthen your application.
In addition, discussing your academic achievements and expressing sincere enthusiasm for the opportunity is crucial, as employers value candidates who are keen to learn and contribute, irrespective of their age. It's important for you to understand the significance of punctuality, preparation of thoughtful questions, maintaining good body language, and sending a thank-you email post-interview. These elements contribute to a thorough approach towards success, reinforcing the notion that age should not be a hindrance. You'd be amazed at how much employers appreciate it when you acknowledge their time and willingness to engage with you.
Firstly, it's essential that you conduct an in-depth study of the company, as this shows genuine interest and proactiveness. Despite your young age, dressing professionally is key to showing your respect for the opportunity and to align with the company's dress code. Noah, you should also prepare for common interview questions, with a focus on showcasing your relevant skills, experiences, and personal attributes.
Highlighting transferable skills that you've acquired through your school courses, extracurricular activities, or volunteer work, such as teamwork and communication, can strengthen your application.
In addition, discussing your academic achievements and expressing sincere enthusiasm for the opportunity is crucial, as employers value candidates who are keen to learn and contribute, irrespective of their age. It's important for you to understand the significance of punctuality, preparation of thoughtful questions, maintaining good body language, and sending a thank-you email post-interview. These elements contribute to a thorough approach towards success, reinforcing the notion that age should not be a hindrance. You'd be amazed at how much employers appreciate it when you acknowledge their time and willingness to engage with you.