It’s never too early to start preparing for a job interview. Being a high school student can seem intimidating at first, but with the right preparation and attitude, you can be the one they hire.

From networking online to honing in on practice answers, experienced job seekers know several ways to prepare for an interview. But as a high schooler who may only be interviewing for the first time, preparing for an interview can seem daunting. Just keep nerves from getting in the way of making a good impression.

Learning to conduct oneself in an interview will become especially important as students graduate from high school and look for their first entry-level job or internship. To help those looking for advice, here are 11 tips guaranteed to help you feel prepared and confident during your next job interview!

1. Research the Company

Taking the time to do your homework before an interview can make all the difference in how well you do during the interview—reviewing the job description and responsibilities before the discussion can help you determine what topics the interviewer may ask about and allow you to prepare thoughtful answers. It’s also a good idea to look at what questions to ask your interviewer, as it shows that you care about finding a job with them.

Visiting the company’s website helps you gain insight into its history, mission, values, and current projects. Having this knowledge ahead of time allows you to discuss topics to impress the interviewer with your availability and enthusiasm for working there.

You can demonstrate your enthusiasm in working for the company and your knowledge of the company by making references to your research throughout the interview. By asking, “Will I have the opportunity to work on the XYZ project?” you demonstrate that you are not only aware of their current initiatives but also interested in participating in them, based on your investigation of their website or projects.

2. Prepare relevant materials

Preparing relevant materials for an interview is key to making a great impression and standing out from other applicants. Before the interview, ensure you have your resume and cover letter printed out and ready to go. Also, it’s important to bring any additional materials that may be relevant to the job, such as a portfolio of work or letters of recommendation.

These documents will help you answer the interviewer’s questions and demonstrate that you are organized and prepared.

3. Memorize your resume

Think on how valuable your prior work experience is. When going into a job interview, it helps to have a thorough understanding of the duties involved. By memorizing your resume, you will be able to speak confidently about your qualifications without needing to pull out a paper copy. Keep track of the companies you’ve worked for, the dates you were employed there, and the roles you played.

This will help you avoid stumbling over yourself as you talk and may prompt questions from the interviewer that could expand on the roles and their unique demands. This can also highlight the relevant skills and knowledge you gained from each role and how those experiences can be helpful for the position to which you are applying.

4. Determine your qualifications

When applying for a job, it’s important to consider how your strengths and qualifications align with the job description. This helps you more clearly explain them honestly and confidently during the interview.

Consider achievements you’ve had in your ordinary life that don’t seem professionally linked but still demonstrate useful skills. Give an example of how you’ve balanced schoolwork and extracurricular activities without sacrificing the quality of either if the interviewer specifies a preference for candidates who are skilled multitaskers.

The interviewer will gain a better understanding of your skills and credentials for the job if you bring up these points during the interview.

5. Conduct practice interviews

Having done mock interviews, you will feel much more prepared for the real thing. To get ready for the real thing, have some friends or family members act as interviewers. Get them to inquire about the company and the position in general. That way, you may practice your responses in advance.

It’s important to showcase your maturity and professionalism during the interview; this will make a huge impression on the interviewer. Practicing interviews also allow you to practice your interview etiquette so that when it comes time for the actual discussion, it will be smooth sailing from start to finish.

Make sure to consider all of this advice to distinguish yourself from other applicants and present yourself as an ideal candidate for employment.

6. Wear appropriate attire

When attending an interview, make sure to dress in professional attire. This shows the interviewer that you are serious about the job and respect the company. Avoid wearing too casual or revealing; you want to ensure that your clothing is neat and presentable.

It’s also important to ensure that your shoes are polished and that your hair is neat. If you have any piercings or tattoos, make sure to cover them up.

7. Be prepared to answer questions

When interviewing for a job, it’s important to be prepared to answer any questions the interviewer may have. Please ensure you are familiar with the company, its values, and the role you are applying for. This will help you provide more detailed answers and demonstrate your knowledge of the company and its operations.

Additionally, make sure to be aware of current events and industry trends. This will show the interviewer that you are up to date on what is happening worldwide and can be an asset to the company.

8. Be punctual

It’s important to arrive at least 10 minutes early for your interview; this shows that you are serious about the job and respect their time. Arriving late may give off a negative impression and make it seem like you don’t take the job seriously.

Being punctual also demonstrates that you are reliable and responsible, two qualities employers look for in potential employees.

9. Determine how you’ll arrive

You can take a few precautions to ensure your arrival goes smoothly. Before heading to the interview site, it’s important to plan how you will get there on time. If you’re not driving yourself, you should secure a ride that has reliable transportation and plan for traffic delays.

Find out where you can park and how to get there fast and easily. Showing the interviewer that you can effectively manage your time and respect theirs by arriving 15 minutes early is a great way to make a good impression.

If”you receive a ride from someone such as your parents, be sure you enter the interview room alone; this allows you to speak for yourself and your qualifications without help from a third party. Making these preparations will help ensure that your interview doesn’t start in a less-than-positive light.

10. Determine what to ask

The last few seconds of a job interview are among the most crucial. When it comes time for the recruiting manager to wind things up, they will probably ask if you have any questions for them.

This is a great opportunity for you as a job candidate to get more information about the company and role and show that you’re an engaged, inquisitive person who takes charge in professional situations.

Before your interview, consider what questions or topics couldn’t be answered or discussed during your conversation beforehand. Asking thoughtful questions can also emphasize that you’re still interested in pursuing the role and reflects positively on your candidacy.

Popular questions include: What do you like most about working here? What would success look like in this position? What does a typical day look like? Asking good questions is essential to being an exceptional job applicant – so make sure you come prepared!

11. Compose a note of gratitude

Writing a thank-you note after a job interview may seem antiquated. But it’s important to send one. That’s because even in the digital age, no update or email can fully express your gratitude as much as a timely and well-written thank-you note.

The best time to do this is within 24 hours of the interview via email. Keep it simple yet sincere, and make sure it’s error-free.

Make sure you mention something specific to the conversation and show your interest in the role by reiterating why you believe you are qualified and capable of doing great work if hired. Most importantly, briefly explain what attracted you initially to their company, from culture, values, or mission statement.

Conclusion

For high school students, the prospect of an interview for a job can be daunting. But if you go into the interview with a positive frame of mind and do your homework, you can impress the interviewer and boost your chances of receiving the job. Be sure to arrive at the interview at least 10 minutes early, dress professionally, and conduct pre-interview research about the organization.

Your attitude and level of preparation will determine whether or not you are hired, even if your resume and past work experience helped bring you the interview. Let our professional resume writers assist you in writing a document that will wow potential employers. Get in touch with us right now to schedule your free consultation.