What to Expect at Your First Job Interview, and What is Expected of You

Interviewing for your first job can be a stressful situation on many levels. Just because your a teenager doesn't mean that opportunities aren't out there. However, whether your interviewing for a summer job, a part time job, or a job with room to move up, you will need to make a good impression in order to land it. These few tips will help you make a great first impression, and hopefully end your job search at the same time.

What to wear:

You don't need a business suit for a job interview, but you don't want to look like you just came from the mall either. Males should wear dress slacks, dress shoes, and either a polo shirt or a button down dress shirt. You want to look mature, and crisp no matter what position your applying for. If your employer can't take you serious, then how can he expect you to take the job serious. Females should wear either a casual dress that's not sleeveless, dress slacks, casual dress shirt, or nice skirt. Dresses and skirts should not be shorter then 2 inches above your knee. Your shoes should be casual dress as well, you should not wear stiletto heals, or flip flops. Both males and females should avoid wearing t shirts, and shorts. You also want to stay covered up. This means no belly buttons, or breast showing for females, and no muscle shirts for males.

Your appearance is everything:

Of course you want your hair fixed, and ladies need their make up, but try not to over do it. Females should keep their make up as natural as possible. Males need to make sure they are clean shaved. If you have facial piercings, now would be the time to remove them if you can. If you have a trendy hairstyle like a Mohawk, comb it flat or pin it back. Even if your potential boss can tell that it is cut to be styled in a trendy manor, at least you will look respectful. Whatever you do, do not where a hat into a job interview.

Things you might be asked:

Here are some of the trickiest questions that you might be asked during your interview. Knowing the hard questions ahead of time with give you time to prepare your answer. You should lie to your interviewer, however the way you answer tells a lot about you.

How old are you?
Do you have any experience?
Do you use drugs?
Have you ever used drugs?
Have you ever been arrested?
Have you ever been in trouble with the law?
Are you still in school?
What hours, and days can you work?
How many hours are you hoping to work?
Do you have transportation to and from work?
How do you plan on getting to work?

Example of what to say:

Lets say a few months ago you got arrested for shoplifting, and now you applying for a job at the mall. The interviewer asked " Have you ever been arrested?" and you say "yes, for shoplifting". The first impression that gives is that this person can not be trusted. Now lets use the same question. Have you ever been arrested? But, this time you reply" Yes sir, I'm not going to lie, I made a mistake in the past, but I'm moving forward, and making the most of my life". That gives your interviewer the impression that your sorry for what you've done in the past, but your mature, and accepted responsibility for your mistakes.

When you walk in:

The first impression is very important. As soon as you meet your interviewing greet them with a friendly smile, a firm hand shake, and introduce yourself. They expect you top be nervous, but you will be judged on how well you deal with the pressure. During the interview keep eye contact with the interviewer. Do not slouch in the chair, your not at home. When the interview is over, the interviewer will ask if you have any questions. If you do, and they are about the position, now is the time to asked them. It's alright to ask questions like " what is the dress policy?", but don't ask "are those new jackets going on sale soon?". Before you leave be sure to say "Thank you for allowing me the time to interview for this position, I'm really interested in it, please keep me in mind".

What a job interviewer looks for:
There are few things that you interviewer is looking for. Being that your a teen, with little to no experience, other properties come into play. The most important things are as follows"
Respect - Are they respectful?
Trust - Can I trust them?
Honesty - Can I believe what their say?
Maturity - Are they mature enough to work, and not play around?
Responsibility - Can I trust them to come to work on time?
Politeness - Will they be polite to costumers and / or other employees?
It is important to remember this, even though you might be nervous.

TIP: How to make yourself experienced.

Being that you are a teen, your not expected to have a lot of experience but ever little bit helps. If your applying for a position at a pet store, and you have no experience, but have pets at home, tell you interview.

EXAMPLE:
Interviewer : Do you have any experience working around animals?
Your reply: I do not have any professional experience however, I have several pets of my own that I care for, and I'm willing to learn.

By following these tips, you will have a head start on other teens applying for the position. If you do not get the job, do not be discouraged. There are many opportunities out there, and at least you will have the experience of the interviewing process. Just make sure you arrive on time, and give it your best shot.