Summer Job Interview Questions and Tips

Summer Job Interview Questions and Tips Summer Job Interview Questions and Tips Interviewing for a  summer job  is a lot like interviewing for a full-time, year-round position in many respects. You’ll need to prepare for the job interview by researching the company, rehearsing answers to  common interview questions, and bringing a  list of references  to give your interviewer. But interviewing for a summer job is also different, because the job itself is limited to the season. You might need to emphasize your flexibility and availability, for example, to demonstrate to the interviewer that you can work with their schedule. To make the best possible impression on the hiring manager, review common summer interview questions â€" and bring some  questions of your own to ask at the end of the interview. Summer Job Interview Questions Why are you interested in this job?When are you available to work this summer? When could you start and when do you need to return to school?What days and hours are you available each week?How flexible is your schedule?Do you have any activities that would prevent you from working on your schedule?Do you have summer vacation plans?Tell me about your academic goals and grades.Why do you think you are qualified for this position?Do you have any related experience?What other jobs have you held? What did you like best/least about them? Have you ever had difficulty working with a teacher or supervisor?If I asked your teachers or your guidance counselor to describe you, what would they say?If you have worked before, what did you like best about your last job?Describe your ability to work as part of a team.Why should we hire you?Explain why punctuality and reliability are important attributes for employees.Do you have references I can contact?Do you have any questions for me? Tips for Acing a Summer Job Interview Once youve networked successfully or reached out directly to employers and landed an interview, leverage your skills, interest, and opportunities to convert them into a job offer for the summer. Effective preparation, delivery, and follow up will all be critical to your success. 1. PrepareThink of successful past experiences as a student, athlete, volunteer, employee, and a friend or with school activities. Identify the skills or qualities which enabled you to do well in those situations. Be ready to share statements referencing those strengths and to give examples of how and when you tapped those assets. 2. PracticeWrite a 30-word statement underscoring why you want the job and how you have the right stuff to excel in that role. Rehearse in front of the mirror, with parents, advisors, or friends who can be objective and supportive. 3. Review Your ExperiencesReview all the experiences listed on your application and/or  resume  and be ready to answer questions about your experiences. For example, be prepared to answer questions, such as What did you like about your previous job? and What were your biggest accomplishments while in that role? 4. Dress NicelyBusiness casual  will usually be acceptable attire, but if youre interviewing for a professional-type job, consider wearing a dress, slacks, and a blazer, or a suit. Ask your parents for advice or guidance if youre unsure  how to dress for your interview, or call the employers human resources department and ask what is acceptable. 4. Meet Grooming StandardsAvoid excessive makeup, piercings, and wild hairdos. Present the image that your employer would want for their clientele. You can always readjust your grooming once you leave the interview after youve learned more about the company. 5. Greet the InterviewerGreet your interviewer  with a firm handshake and warm smile. Make comfortable eye contact when articulating your statements. Lean slightly forward to engage your interviewer and dont slouch. 6. Enthusiasm and a Positive AttitudeEnthusiasm and a positive attitude really count with summer job interviews. All things being equal, the eager, upbeat young candidate will be much more likely to get an offer. Smile often, use a lively vocal tone and focus on the positive at all times. Verbalize to the employer that you would really like the job and work hard to do well. 7. Overcome a Skills GapIf you dont have all the skills or experiences required for the job, it is best to admit it, but stress that you are eager to learn and that youre a quick study. 8. Express FlexibilityExpress as much flexibility as honestly possible regarding hours worked and start dates. If you can start in the spring or continue in the fall while in school, that may be a distinct advantage for some employers. 9. Bring Questions to Ask the Interviewer At the end of the interview, the hiring manager will most likely ask, “Do you have any questions for me?” The correct answer to this question is always, “Yes.” If you don’t have any questions for your interviewer, you run the risk of looking like you’re not really interested in the role â€" or not dedicated enough to think about the details.  Sample questions include: What are the biggest challenges of this job?What makes a person successful at this job?When can I expect to hear from you? What to Do After the Interview Compose a  thank-you note  as soon as possible after your interview. Express appreciation for the interviewers time and excitement about the possibility of working there this summer. Check in periodically with your employer after the interview and express your continued interest.