How to Ace Your First Job Interview

Getting ready for your first job or volunteer role is an exciting milestone. Whether you want to work at a local store, help at an animal shelter, or assist a summer camp, filling out the application is only the first step. To make a great impression, you need to prepare carefully. Follow this step-by-step guide to master the four main stages of landing a job.

Step 1: Choose Your References

A reference is a trusted adult who can tell an employer about your hard work, honesty, and good character.

1. Pick the right people: Choose teachers, coaches, scout leaders, or club advisors who know your skills. Do not use family members or friends, because employers want an honest opinion from someone who has supervised your work.
2. Ask politely: Always ask your references for permission at least two weeks before your application is due. You can ask in person or send a polite email explaining what job you are applying for.
3. Share your information: If they agree, give them a copy of your resume and a short description of the job. A resume is a written summary of your education, skills, and activities. This helps your reference know what strengths to mention.
4. Say thank you: Send a handwritten note or an email thanking each person for taking the time to help you, no matter what happens.

Step 2: Dress for Success

What you wear to an interview shows that you respect the job and the person interviewing you.

• Learn about the workplace: Find out how employees at the company usually dress. A good rule of thumb is to dress slightly nicer than the daily dress code.
• Wear neat clothes: For most beginner jobs, wear clean slacks or khakis with a neat collared shirt, polo, or sweater. Pick simple colors like navy, gray, black, or white.
• Check your shoes and grooming: Choose clean, closed-toe shoes instead of flip-flops or athletic sneakers. Make sure your clothes are wrinkle-free, your hair is brushed, and your hands are clean.

Step 3: Master the Greeting

The first minute of an interview is your chance to show that you are polite and confident.

1. Use good posture: Stand up straight with your shoulders back. Keep your hands relaxed at your sides instead of stuffing them into your pockets.
2. Look them in the eye: Make friendly eye contact and smile when the interviewer walks up to meet you.
3. Give a firm handshake: Reach out with your right hand, hold their hand firmly without squeezing too hard, and shake up and down two times before letting go.
4. Introduce yourself clearly: Say hello using the person's formal name. For instance, say, "Good morning, Ms. Rivera. It is nice to meet you. Thank you for meeting with me today."

Step 4: Practice Your Answers

Practicing before your interview helps you feel calm and ready.

• Research the organization: Visit the company's website. Learn what they do and write down two or three questions you want to ask them at the end of the meeting.
• Use the STAR framework: When an interviewer asks you to tell a story about a challenge you solved, use the STAR framework to organize your thoughts:
  • Situation: Describe the situation or problem.
  • Task: Explain what you needed to do.
  • Action: Tell the specific steps you took to solve it.
  • Result: Share the positive ending and what you learned.
• Practice out loud: Do a practice interview with a parent, teacher, or friend. Saying your answers out loud helps you avoid saying "um" and makes your ideas clear.

By following these four steps, you will be prepared, confident, and ready to show an employer your very best qualities.